I Moved From L.A. to NYC and Cut My Closet in Half—These 9 Outfits Made the Edit
When I packed up my life in Los Angeles and moved to New York City, I knew change was coming—not just in pace, weather, and skyline, but in style. L.A. was all about effortless layers, casual cool, and a wardrobe that leaned heavily on sunshine. But New York? She’s a different beast. Chic, fast-moving, and unapologetically bold. Suddenly, my sprawling SoCal wardrobe didn’t make sense in a city where every square inch of closet space matters.
So, I made a big decision: I cut my closet in half.
And honestly? It was the best thing I could’ve done.
Downsizing forced me to look at my wardrobe differently. I started focusing on quality over quantity, versatility over excess. I needed pieces that could handle a full day of subway rides, coffee catchups, gallery openings, and impromptu rooftop dinners—without sacrificing style.
After a lot of trial and error, I landed on 9 tried-and-true outfits that made the final cut. They’re elevated yet easy, timeless with just enough edge, and totally wearable whether you’re in SoHo or Midtown.
Ready for a peek inside my streamlined NYC wardrobe? These are the 9 outfits that made the edit—and why they’ve become my go-to’s.When I packed up my life in Los Angeles and moved across the country to New York City, I knew my wardrobe was in for a major shift. Gone were the days of endless sunshine and car-to-door errands—suddenly, I was braving four seasons, walking everywhere, and living in a tiny apartment where every square inch of closet space mattered.
L.A. style was breezy and effortless—denim cutoffs, oversized button-downs, and easy sandals were my daily uniform. But NYC? It’s got a sharper edge. The city is fast, stylish, and unapologetically bold. Fashion feels like a sport here, and people dress with purpose. You can’t help but level up.
So, I made a pretty wild move: I cut my closet in half.
And let me tell you—editing down was oddly liberating. I let go of things I didn’t wear often, honed in on what actually worked for me, and built a capsule wardrobe that could keep up with the hustle of the city while still feeling like me. What survived the great closet purge? These 9 outfits that I now reach for again and again.
1. The Tailored Blazer + Wide-Leg Trousers Combo
This is the outfit that never fails me. A crisp blazer (preferably in black, charcoal, or cream) layered over a simple tank and paired with wide-leg trousers instantly reads polished and intentional. Add sneakers for day, heels for night. It’s the uniform of every woman who means business but still wants to look cool.
NYC Tip: Look for blazers with strong shoulders and trousers with deep pockets—you’ll thank me later.
2. Slip Dress + Oversized Shirt
This one’s a nod to my L.A. roots with a NYC twist. A satin slip dress layered with an oversized button-down shirt (either open or tied at the waist) strikes the perfect balance of casual and chic. Pair with chunky sandals or sleek ballet flats depending on your mood.
Why it works: It feels breezy and feminine but not too precious—just right for a humid NYC day.
3. All-Black Everything
It wouldn’t be New York without at least one all-black outfit in heavy rotation. My version? A black tee or tank, high-rise black jeans or cigarette pants, and an oversized black coat or trench. It’s simple, strong, and universally flattering.
Bonus points: Add a bold red lip or gold accessories to elevate the look without overcomplicating it.
4. Structured Denim + Button-Up Shirt
Forget the distressed skinnies. Here, it’s all about a good pair of rigid, high-waisted jeans and a crisp shirt tucked in just so. Throw on a belt, sling a crossbody over your shoulder, and finish the look with loafers or sleek sneakers.
City-approved: Great for weekend brunch or casual Friday at the office.
5. Knit Midi Dress + Leather Jacket
A ribbed midi dress is a low-effort, high-impact staple. Add a cropped leather jacket and suddenly, you’re walking around like a downtown It Girl. Whether it’s a neutral tone or deep jewel shade, this outfit always looks like you tried—even if you didn’t.
Transition trick: Swapping boots for strappy sandals makes it work across seasons.
6. Oversized Sweater + Mini Skirt + Knee-High Boots
Cozy on top, city-cool on the bottom. This outfit brings a bit of LA free-spiritedness to NYC fall and winter. It’s playful, stylish, and a little flirty, but still warm enough to wear on a cold day.
Key detail: Choose a structured mini and boots with a low heel for walkability.
7. Monochrome Neutrals
One of my favorite NYC fashion tricks? Wearing the same tone from head to toe. All camel. All ivory. All grey. It always looks luxe—even if you’re wearing Uniqlo. I keep a few neutral-toned staples in rotation: trousers, turtlenecks, long coats, and knits.
Pro move: Mix textures (wool, silk, denim) to keep it visually interesting.
8. Graphic Tee + Statement Trousers
When I want to keep things casual but still show personality, I reach for a bold pant—maybe plaid, metallic, or bright red—and ground it with a lived-in tee and structured blazer. It’s playful and fashion-forward without being over the top.
Editor’s trick: French tuck the tee and add sleek sunglasses to finish the look.
9. Silk Blouse + Straight-Leg Jeans + Heels
This is my go-to “dinner with friends” outfit. A flowy silk or satin blouse (bonus if it’s vintage) tucked into straight-leg jeans and paired with simple heels is classic NYC cool. Elegant without trying too hard.
Extra style points: Roll the sleeves and add a dainty necklace or bold earrings.
Why These 9 Outfits Work—And What I Learned
These outfits made the cut because they tick all the right boxes:
- Versatile: I can mix and match nearly every piece.
- Timeless: They don’t chase trends but still feel modern.
- Comfortable: If I can’t walk 10 NYC blocks in it, it’s out.
- Stylish: Because let’s be honest—this city demands style.
What surprised me most about cutting my closet in half was how freeing it felt. Fewer clothes = fewer decisions = more clarity. I started dressing with purpose, building outfits that made me feel like the best version of myself.
Table of Contents
FAQs
Q: Did you regret donating any of your old L.A. pieces?
A: Honestly, no. If I haven’t missed it in six months, I never really needed it.
Q: How did you decide what to keep?
A: I followed the “3-outfit rule.” If I could style it three different ways for my NYC lifestyle, it stayed.
Q: What are your top wardrobe MVPs now?
A: A structured black blazer, rigid vintage denim, a neutral-toned wool coat, and a great pair of ankle boots.
Q: Tips for someone moving to NYC with a big closet?
A: Edit ruthlessly. Focus on layers, weather-appropriate fabrics, and items you can wear from day to night. And don’t forget comfortable shoes.
Final Thoughts
Cutting my closet in half felt scary at first—but it turned out to be one of the most empowering style decisions I’ve ever made. By honing in on these 9 core outfits, I’ve developed a wardrobe that feels more like me—just sharper, chicer, and way more adaptable to city life.
Whether you’re moving cross-country or just looking to simplify your wardrobe, let this be your sign: less really is more.