Shoes to Wear Walking Around NYC
Whether you’re from NYC or planning a visit, comfortable footwear is a no-brainer. New Yorkers walk a lot and while a pair of pretty pumps are the perfect finishing touch to your outfit, but they’re not practical for the amount of walking you’ll be doing. I promise you, if you invest in good, comfortable shoes, your feet will thank you. New Yorkers are some of the most fashionable people and because of the walking lifestyle in the city, your shoes should be an integral part of your outfit each day. You want them to not only be comfortable but also look good! Not sure where to start? Here are the best shoes to wear walking around NYC, straight from my closet!
Sandals with an Ankle Strap
The summer months in NYC are, quite frankly, very hot. That means light layers and open toe shoes. If you’re going to wear sandals in the city, opting for a style that has a sturdy ankle strap and can be worn walking at least a mile or two, is key. This pair they’re sturdy, comfortable, and stylish. In the summer months, I’ll pair them with a cute dress but they’re also great to wear with ankle-length jeans, trousers, and skirts in the transitional months.
White Sneakers
Whenever I’m out in the city, the one shoe that is consistently seen is the white sneaker. Whether you go with a slim silhouette or a chunkier option, white sneakers are a must in any closet. You’ll be able to wear them year round with various different outfits while ensuring your feet are supported on long days.
Chunky Sneakers
Chunky sneakers are having their moment (and have been for a few years now!) thanks to Gen Z. I’m not mad about it! They instantly add a fun “cool girl” element to any outfit and they are SO comfortable. Right now, I am crushing on basically every pair of chunky sneakers New Balance has but this pair from Veja is another great option!
Low Heels
Okay, I know I said a pretty pair of pumps isn’t a practical shoe in NYC, but here me out: the low heel. It’s on trend, it’s chic, and they are so much more comfortable to walk in. There are various different style shoes with a lot heel but my rule of thumb is to either go with a block heel or a secure shoe with a skinner heel.
Loafers
Loafers are a classic shoe that can be worn year round, and they’re not going anywhere. They’re comfortable, easy to walk in, elevate any outfit, and dare I say chic? The loafer trend has definitely become extremely popular in the last few years. I love finding new ways to style mine, and different silhouettes to change up an outfit!
Heeled Boots
Heeled Boots One of my most worn style of shoes in the fall season is heeled boots. They’re chic, easy to walk in, and are practical for the weather. This pair is an all-time favorite but anything with a low heeled and good support will work! Style yours with skirts, dresses, or jeans.
6. Linen Pants
I’m such a linen pant girly so there’s no surprise that these are on my list of must-haves for a beach vacation. They’re one of the most functional pieces of clothing and can easily be styled up or down. I love this pair for during the day and throwing on over a bathing suit. For evenings out, this pair is a little more elevated.
7. Dresses
On those days that it’s too hot to function, especially on vacation, a good dress is a must. I recommend packing at least two dresses for a beach vacation to give you variety for daytime activities, lounging around, and going to dinner. If there’s one dress you pack, let it be this mini! It’s lightweight, so flattering, and can be styled so many ways.
8. Sandals
A comfortable pair of sandals is a non-negotiable for a beach vacation. I recommend packing 2-3 pairs, with one of those pairs being a good beach sandal like this pair. For day time activities or dinner out, this pair and this pair are great options!
9. Swimsuit
A bathing suit is a must-have for any summer vacation, especially if you’re going to the beach! Too often bathing suits don’t provide the support you’re looking for, but I’ve come to love J.Crew’s swimwear over the last few years. The quality is top notch and I never feel constricted. If you’re a one-piece girl, this one and this one are two of my favorites! They are both so flattering and elevate any beach look.
10. Sunglasses
The one item you absolutely do not want to forget to pack for your beach vacation is your sunglasses. These aviators from Aire are a fan favorite and look luxury for a fraction of the price. You can also never go wrong with a fun oversized pair like these.
11. Day/Beach Bag
When going on beach vacations, I always like to bring a bag that can be used during the day but can also be utilized as a beach bag. This straw tote checks off all of the boxes: spacious for traveling, can be used as a beach tote, is elevated looking. I also recently picked up this tote and it would also be a great for the beach!
