August in New York is hot, humid, and very much about dressing for survival. 😅
By this point in the summer, I’ve learned not to fight the weather. Instead, my August wardrobe is all about lightweight fabrics, easy silhouettes, comfortable shoes, and pieces that let me stay cool while still feeling like myself.
After 10 summers living in New York, these are the outfits I actually reach for when it’s 90°F outside. From everyday walks and park days to brunch, dinners, and everything in between, these are real outfits I’ve worn around the city over the years.
So if you’re wondering what to wear in NYC in August, here’s what works for me.
Keep It Lightweight
When it’s hot and humid, breathable fabrics make all the difference.
I tend to reach for linen, cotton, and other lightweight materials, along with loose-fitting pieces that don’t cling to my body. Tank tops, lightweight shorts, linen pants, and flowy dresses make up a big part of my summer wardrobe.
This is also one of those months when I don’t feel the need to overcomplicate an outfit. A simple tank and shorts can be just as good as a more elaborate look, especially when you’re going to be walking around the city all day.
Flowy Dresses Are My Summer Go-To
If I want to look a little more put together without actually putting in much effort, I reach for a flowy dress.
They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and perfect for those really hot days when you don’t want anything touching you too much. A lightweight midi or maxi dress can work for everything from sightseeing and coffee to brunch, dinner, or rooftop drinks.
And honestly, there’s something about a flowy dress in New York during the summer that just feels right.
Comfortable Shoes Are Essential
If you’re visiting NYC in August, please don’t underestimate how much you’ll walk.
Even when you have an itinerary planned around the subway, you’ll probably end up walking several blocks between stops, wandering through neighborhoods, or taking the long way somewhere because you don’t want to go inside yet.
I stick to comfortable sneakers and supportive sandals that I already know I can walk in for hours.
My rule is simple: don’t bring shoes to New York that you haven’t already tested.
Don’t Forget the AC
There’s one slightly annoying thing about dressing for a New York heat wave: you also have to prepare for the opposite.
Restaurants, museums, stores, and subway cars can be freezing because of the air conditioning.
I almost always have a lightweight button-down or another easy layer with me, even when it’s 90°F outside. It takes up very little space in a bag and can make a huge difference once you go indoors.
Dress for Real NYC Summer Days
One thing I’ve learned after living here for 10 years is that your plans will probably change.
You might leave home for a quick coffee and end up spending the afternoon in a park. You might plan to go home after dinner and suddenly find yourself having rooftop drinks with friends.
That’s why I like outfits that can do a little bit of everything.
The looks in this post aren’t outfits I’ve put together just for Instagram. They’re things I’ve actually worn around NYC over the years, from casual days walking around the city to brunch, dinners, and summer plans with friends.
Basically, what I actually reach for when it’s 90°F and I still want to look cute. 😂
What to Pack for NYC in August: Flor’s Summer Packing Checklist ☀️🗽
If you’re visiting New York in August, here’s the quick version of what I’d bring:
☐ Lightweight tank tops
☐ Breathable T-shirts
☐ Shorts
☐ Lightweight or linen pants
☐ Long, flowy dresses
☐ Comfortable walking sneakers
☐ Supportive sandals
☐ Sunglasses
☐ A lightweight button-down or layer
☐ Crossbody bag or small backpack
☐ Reusable water bottle
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Hat or hair accessories
My biggest NYC summer packing tip: don’t overpack. Choose lightweight pieces that you can mix and match, and prioritize clothes and shoes you’ll actually feel comfortable wearing while walking around the city.
August in New York is hot, humid, sweaty, and occasionally a little ridiculous.
But after 10 summers here, I’ve learned to embrace it.
Tank tops, shorts, flowy dresses, comfortable shoes, lightweight fabrics, and a good pair of sunglasses are basically my summer uniform. And when it’s really hot, comfort wins every time.
So wear the easy dress, repeat the outfit, bring the comfortable shoes, and don’t worry too much about looking perfectly put together.
It’s August in New York. We’re all just trying to stay cool. ☀️🗽
