NYC Christmas outfit ideas are so much fun to look through, especially if you’re planning to visit New York during the holidays.
I love all the red coats, cozy sweaters, plaid skirts, and pretty Christmas looks you see around the city.
But December in New York can get pretty cold, and you’ll probably spend a lot of time walking. So, as much as I love a cute outfit, I’d also think about how warm and comfortable it is.
When I was in Paris last spring, it was pretty cold, but I still saw so many people dressed up in short sleeves just to get beautiful photos. So I think it’s always worth packing at least one special outfit when you travel, even if you only wear it for a few pictures.
What to Wear in NYC in December
If you’re visiting New York in December, I’d definitely pack a warm coat and comfortable boots.
You’ll probably spend hours walking around the city, and even if the weather looks nice in photos, it can get really cold, especially when it’s windy.
I would plan most of my daytime outfits around sweaters, jeans, and a good winter coat. You can still look dressed up with a pretty scarf, a red coat, or even a cute hat.
And if you love wearing skirts and dresses, bring some warm tights so you don’t have to leave your favorite outfits at home.
I also have a guide on how to layer clothes for winter if you’re worried about staying warm without making your outfits too bulky.
I’d also pack one or two special outfits for Christmas photos or dinner. You don’t necessarily have to wear them all day. You can change before going out or take off your warm coat for a few pictures.
I’d bring boots I’ve already worn for long walks and save my heels for dinner. This is definitely not the trip where I’d want to break in a new pair of shoes.
Casual NYC Christmas Outfits for Sightseeing
For sightseeing, I’d probably stick with jeans, sweaters, and a coat I can wear with almost everything. You can still make a casual NYC winter outfit look cute in pictures with a colorful scarf, a pretty hat, or even a red sweater.
I’d rather bring a few pieces I know I’ll wear than fill my suitcase with outfits that only work for one day.
White Winter Coat Outfit with Snow Boots
I love how the white coat and matching accessories look against all those Christmas decorations! And you don’t need to wear white from head to toe to recreate this outfit. Regular dark jeans look just as cute.
I’d pay more attention to the boots than matching every shade of white. Some chunky winter boots look warm but have very little grip, so check the soles before buying them for a December trip.
I’d also choose a pair that’s easy to clean because white boots can get dirty pretty quickly on city sidewalks.
Classy All-White Winter Outfit with a Wool Coat
This is one of my favorite classy NYC winter outfits.
The long belted coat looks beautiful with the cream turtleneck and light-colored pants, and those brown boots are such a good choice!
I actually prefer the brown boots here over another pair of white shoes.
You can also add a chocolate-brown bag to bring a little more of that color into the outfit. Black would work, but I’d personally stick with brown.
Another thing I’d copy is the earmuffs. They’re cute with a wool coat, especially if you don’t like wearing hats that flatten your hair.
Green Sweater with Black Leather Pants
If your winter outfits always seem to end up looking too casual, try changing your regular jeans for leather pants. You can wear the same sweater and boots, but the whole outfit looks a little more dressed up.
That’s what I like about this green sweater with black leather pants. The sweater is relaxed enough for daytime, and the pants would also look nice for dinner.
Something I’d check when buying leather or faux-leather pants is how they feel when you walk and bend your knees. Some pairs look beautiful but feel stiff, especially when they have very little stretch.
I’d add a black coat and keep the jewelry simple.
Green and black look beautiful together, and you can wear this combination long after Christmas.
Casual Red Sweater and Black Jeans Outfit
A red sweater is probably one of the easiest things to pack for Christmas in New York. You can wear it with jeans for sightseeing and use it again for dinner without looking like you’re wearing the same outfit.
I like the V-neck sweater in this photo, especially with the black jeans.
If you have a fuller bust or feel that thick crewneck sweaters make your upper body look heavy, a V-neck is worth trying. You can still wear a thin thermal top underneath, provided it doesn’t show at the neckline.
For daytime, I’d choose black flat boots and a wool coat. Later, you could change the jeans for black trousers, add earrings, and wear pointed-toe ankle boots.
All-Black NYC Winter Outfit with Chunky Boots
I would absolutely wear an all-black outfit for Christmas in New York. And the burgundy gloves in this photo are such a good reminder that you don’t need a colorful coat to make a winter outfit interesting.
The chunky Chelsea boots look great with the long black coat. You could also wear a fine-knit black turtleneck underneath if you wanted something a little dressier.
If your black winter outfits always look the same, try changing the materials before buying more clothes. Wool, leather, denim, and ribbed knitwear can all look quite different, even when they’re the same color.
I’d keep the gray beanie too.
Cozy Christmas Outfit with Jeans and UGGs
I would never have thought that a big red hair bow could make such a difference to a simple sweater and jeans outfit, but it really does!
The cream cable-knit sweater, baggy jeans, and UGGs are all everyday pieces. You could wear them throughout winter, then add the red bow for Christmas pictures.
If you’re trying to style wide-leg jeans with UGGs and they keep dragging underneath your shoes, try the jeans with the boots before deciding which length you need. A pair that works with heeled boots might be too long with flat UGGs. I’d rather have jeans that work with the shoes I actually wear most often.
And if you don’t like oversized bows, a smaller velvet one would look just as cute. You could also wear a red scarf or carry a red bag.
If you’re looking for a warm coat, comfortable boots, or a few sweaters for your NYC trip, you can browse my LTK finds. I share clothing and accessories from different retailers, so you might find something that works with what you’re already packing.
Cute NYC Christmas Outfits for Holiday Photos
If I were spending Christmas in New York, I’d definitely pack something special just for pictures.
I mean, with all those beautiful Christmas decorations around Rockefeller Center, Radio City, and Fifth Avenue, how could you not?
I especially love red skirts, plaid outfits, and cute little accessories like berets for Christmas photos.
I’d also think about where you’re planning to take photos before choosing the colors. A red outfit can look beautiful against a snowy or neutral background, but sometimes a cream or white outfit stands out even more against all those red Christmas decorations.
Red and White Christmas Outfit with a Midi Skirt
This is one of those Christmas in New York outfits I’d pack specifically for pictures. The red sweater and beret look adorable with the candy cane decorations, and the white skirt gives you so many possibilities for posing.
If you’re wearing a full midi skirt for photos, take a few pictures while walking or gently turning. You can also hold one side of the skirt. I think those photos often look prettier than standing perfectly still.
For December, I’d consider warm tights underneath, particularly if the skirt isn’t lined. Just try them on together first.
If your skirt keeps sticking to your tights, a lightweight slip or fabric-safe anti-static spray may help.
Christmas Sweater with a Red A-Line Skirt
This red skirt and white Christmas sweater would be so cute for photos outside Radio City. And I like that the sweater has just a little red lettering rather than a huge Christmas print.
If you love festive outfits but don’t want to look like you’re wearing a Christmas costume, I’d try something similar. Choose one obvious Christmas color and wear it with regular clothes from your closet.
The black knee-high boots are a good addition. They’re a little dressier than sneakers.
This would also be a lovely outfit for Christmas pictures with your partner. You could both wear cream and red without dressing exactly alike. I have more ideas for coordinating Christmas outfits for couples, especially if you’re trying to choose colors that photograph nicely together.
Red Plaid Mini Skirt with a Cream Sweater
A plaid mini skirt can look beautiful in winter, but I know not everyone wants to walk around New York with bare legs.
I’d try this cream sweater and plaid skirt with warm opaque tights and black knee-high boots. You still get the cute Christmas skirt outfit, and the tights make it much easier to wear when it’s cold.
One thing people sometimes forget is that not all tights feel the same under a skirt. Some thick fleece-lined styles have a shiny finish or look bulky around the ankles. I’d try the complete outfit at home before packing, especially if you’re planning to wear fitted boots.
The cream sweater is a good choice with the red plaid. I wouldn’t introduce another print here though.
Cute Christmas Outfit with a Plaid Skirt and Tall Boots
I love the gray sweater with this plaid skirt, especially with the red beret! If you’re ever stuck choosing a top for a multicolored skirt, look at the quieter colors in the print.
Sometimes gray or beige looks much prettier than trying to match the brightest color.
I probably would have chosen a cream sweater with this plaid skirt, but the gray looks so pretty with it! If you’re ever stuck choosing a top for a multicolored skirt, look at the quieter colors in the print. Sometimes a gray or beige sweater looks much better than trying to match the brightest color.
The over-the-knee boots are another part I’d keep. If yours keep sliding down when you walk, look for a pair with an adjustable shaft or a snug stretch panel.
Fashion tape or boot accessories made to help hold boots up may also help, depending on the material.
You don’t need to wear these boots only with mini skirts either. I’ve shared more ways to style them in my winter outfits with thigh-high boots, including some combinations you can wear well after Christmas.
Elegant Red Maxi Dress for Christmas Photos
Okay, I know you’re not going to walk around New York in a huge red gown all day. But for Christmas pictures? I would absolutely consider something like this.
The full skirt looks incredible on the staircase, and I think a dress with this much fabric gives you some lovely posing options.
If you’re not very comfortable posing for photos, try sitting on a staircase and arranging the skirt around you. You can look toward the side, hold a small part of the skirt, or have someone take the picture from a slightly higher angle.
Just make sure the staircase is somewhere you’re allowed to use for photography, and you’re not blocking anyone.
I would also choose a dress you can move in.
Some gowns have very heavy skirts or trains, and carrying one around New York can become quite a job. If you’re only going to wear it for pictures, consider renting it rather than spending a lot of money on something you may never wear again.
I’d keep the jewelry simple and let the red dress be the main attraction.
Chic NYC Christmas Outfits with Winter Coats
I think a beautiful winter coat can make such a difference to an outfit, especially in New York, where you’ll probably wear it in most of your outdoor pictures. So I’d definitely put some thought into which coat to pack.
I love red coats for Christmas, but a pretty plaid coat or even a classic black one can look just as good. And if you’re only bringing one or two coats, think about what you’ll wear underneath them.
I’d rather pack a coat that looks good with several outfits than bring a beautiful one that only matches one dress.
Plaid Winter Coat with Red Sweater Dress
If you’re thinking of buying a plaid winter coat, I would look at the colors in the print before deciding whether you love it.
This one works beautifully with the red sweater dress because the coat already has red in it. And the white ankle boots pick up the lighter colors without making the outfit too busy.
I would try the coat with at least three things from my own closet before buying it. Maybe a red dress, black jeans, and cream trousers. If you can only imagine wearing it with one specific outfit, you might not get as much use out of it as you’d hoped.
If you often get stuck trying to decide which colors go together, my guide on how to match clothes explains some other combinations you can try with pieces you already have.
Red Winter Coat with Burgundy Knee-High Boots
Can we talk about those burgundy lace-up boots? They’re probably my favorite part of this outfit.
I actually prefer the deeper burgundy boots with the brighter red coat rather than having everything match perfectly. I’d add a cream scarf or chocolate-brown bag and leave the other bright colors at home.
You could also recreate this with regular burgundy knee-high boots if you don’t own a lace-up pair. The colors are what I’d copy first.
Red Coat with Plaid Skirt and White Sneakers
I really like the white sneakers with this red coat and plaid skirt. I’d usually think of wearing boots with a Christmas outfit like this, but the sneakers make it much more practical for a day in the city.
And you don’t need heels to make a skirt outfit look dressed up. A beautiful coat, a nice knit sweater, and a little bag can do plenty of that work.
For this look, I’d choose leather or other easy-to-clean sneakers rather than a delicate fabric pair. New York sidewalks can get wet in December, and white canvas shoes wouldn’t be my first choice.
Red Faux-Fur Jacket with Black Leather Pants
This red faux-fur jacket is the kind of piece I’d wear with clothes I already own. A black top and black leather pants are enough. You really don’t need to find a special sweater or bag to match it.
But I would check the sleeves before buying a jacket like this. Faux fur can be quite thick, and some jackets look roomy on the outside but feel surprisingly narrow around the arms.
If you have fuller upper arms or want to wear a sweater underneath, try moving your arms forward and raising them when you try on the jacket. You’ll know pretty quickly whether you can move comfortably.
I also wouldn’t assume a fluffy jacket is warm. Some are fairly thin underneath all that texture. Check the lining and closure if you’re planning to wear it outside in New York.
Dressy NYC Christmas Outfits for Dinner and Parties
I’d definitely pack at least one dressy outfit for Christmas in New York, even if I didn’t have any special dinner reservations. You never know when you’ll find a beautiful restaurant or decide to go somewhere nice in the evening.
Burgundy Sweater Dress with Patterned Tights
I love the patterned tights with this burgundy sweater dress. They make such a difference, especially when the dress itself is fairly simple.
If you’re trying to decide what tights to wear with a winter dress, I’d look at the rest of the outfit first. Patterned tights are cute with a plain dress like this one. But if the dress already has sequins, embroidery, or a busy print, I’d probably choose regular black tights instead.
I’d also check the fabric before buying a sweater dress. Some wool blends can feel itchy against your skin, especially if you’re wearing the dress for several hours. A soft base layer can help, although I’d rather choose a dress that feels comfortable on its own.
Silver Sequin Mini Dress with a Black Coat
This silver dress is gorgeous, especially with the fringe details. I can imagine how pretty it would look when you’re walking or dancing.
And I like that she wore a regular black coat with it. You don’t need a special evening coat for every dress in your closet. A classic black wool coat can work with sequins, velvet, and even a simple black dress.
For dinner, I’d keep the little silver bag and heels. If you’re going to walk afterward, bring a pair of shoes you can change into.
I have more ideas for dressing up in colder weather in my winter party outfit guide, including looks that don’t require sequins from head to toe.
White Wrap Mini Dress with Black Ankle Boots
That white wrap-style dress is beautiful, and I really like the draping across the middle.
But here’s something I’d check if you’re shopping for a similar dress: can you actually move around without constantly adjusting the neckline or skirt?
Some wrap dresses look great when you’re standing in front of a mirror, but the front can open when you walk or sit. I’d look for a secure closure, and if it’s a true wrap dress, a small hidden snap might be helpful.
The draping is also worth trying if you prefer not to wear something completely fitted around your tummy. I’d choose fabric that has enough weight to hang nicely rather than a very thin material that shows every detail underneath.
I like the black ankle boots with this dress, but I’d add sheer black tights for December. You could wear a long black coat too.
White Sequin Mini Dress with a Long Coat
This is exactly the kind of outfit I’d pack if I wanted beautiful Christmas pictures outside Cartier.
The white sequined dress and matching coat look amazing together. But I wouldn’t plan to wear the dress and those little heels for hours of sightseeing.
If you’re taking pictures in a dress like this, choose the location before you leave the hotel. Wear your warm coat while walking, take a few photos with it open, and then remove it for the pictures where you want to show the whole dress.
And check the dress under the lighting you’ll be photographed in. Some white sequined fabrics can become more see-through under bright lights or flash photography. Nude undergarments close to your skin tone are usually less noticeable underneath white clothing than white ones, but I’d test them with the dress beforehand.
Silver Sequin Dress with a White Faux-Fur Jacket
I love the big fluffy sleeves on this jacket! They look beautiful with the fitted silver dress, especially in front of all the Rockefeller Center Christmas decorations.
If you’re wearing faux fur with sequins, I’d be careful with the jewelry. I wouldn’t add a statement necklace or big dangling earrings because you already have so much happening around the shoulders.
Something else I’d consider is the bag. Faux fur and sequins can both catch on delicate materials, so I’d choose a small, smooth clutch rather than a handbag with fringe or lots of decorative chains.
Gold Sequin Pants with a Cream Wool Coat
If I had to choose one dressy outfit from this article, I think I’d pick these gold sequin pants. They’re beautiful with the cream sweater and long coat, and I’d probably feel more comfortable wearing trousers for a Christmas dinner in New York.
One thing I’d definitely check is the lining. Some sequin pants look beautiful but feel scratchy around the thighs when you walk, and I wouldn’t want to deal with that all evening.
If you have fuller hips or thighs, a relaxed wide-leg pair might be easier to wear than fitted sequin trousers. Just make sure the fabric has enough movement and the waistband feels comfortable.
I wouldn’t buy a matching sparkly top for these pants. A cream turtleneck looks lovely, and you could also wear them with a black sweater or a white button-down shirt. That’s three different Christmas dinner outfits using the same pants.
The cream wool coat is a beautiful choice, especially with the fluffy collar. I’d wear simple nude heels or cream ankle boots and carry a little gold or beige bag.
What to Pack for Christmas in NYC
I made this little packing checklist for anyone planning to spend 4–5 days in New York around Christmas. I’d save it to my phone and check things off while packing because I always seem to remember something I’ve forgotten at the last minute!
One thing I’d definitely do is check the weather right before the trip. I’d pack thermal tops to wear under my sweaters, warm socks, and boots I know I can walk in for hours. And of course, I’d leave some room for a pretty Christmas outfit just for pictures.
If you’re having trouble deciding what clothes to bring together, my Christmas capsule wardrobe ideas might help you put together a few more looks without filling your entire suitcase.
If you’re looking for a few things to pack for New York, you can also check out my Amazon Storefront. I’ve put together some fashion finds and accessories that might come in handy for your winter outfits.
