Fashion Week always brings with it a certain energy—an invitation to experiment, to layer, to pull out those pieces that make you feel a little more inspired than usual. But this year, as I prepped for New York Fashion Week, I found myself leaning into comfort just as much as style. Maybe it’s the chill in the air, maybe it’s the pace of the season, but I knew I wanted staples that were equal parts cozy and chic.
So, I pulled together a few pieces that have already become instant favorites, each striking that delicate balance between laid-back ease and polished sophistication.
The Oversized Coat: A Street-Style Essential
I’ve always believed a great coat is the backbone of a winter wardrobe. For NYFW, I went with an oversized silhouette that instantly elevates even the most casual outfit. There’s something so effortless about throwing on a structured coat over jeans and sneakers—the look feels modern, minimal, and city-ready without trying too hard.
This one, in particular, ticks all the boxes. It’s warm enough to brave those icy gusts between shows, yet its clean lines and tailored shoulders keep it looking refined. I especially love how a coat like this adds polish to my otherwise simple ensembles. Think classic denim, sneakers, and a cozy knit topped with a piece that ties everything together. It’s that magical balance of comfort and elegance that makes you feel put-together the moment you step out the door.
The Knit That Does It All
Underneath the coat is another favorite: a chunky knit turtleneck that feels like a hug in clothing form. I can’t overstate how much I adore this piece. From its soft, tactile fabric to its perfectly oversized fit, it’s the kind of sweater you want to live in all season long.
What makes it truly special is its color. Instead of the expected winter whites, tans, or blacks, I opted for a very pale, silvery gray. It’s subtle, but surprisingly versatile—a neutral that pairs seamlessly with denim, caramel tones, or even layered shades of gray for a monochrome look. It’s less predictable than other staples, but still timeless. And for someone like me, who gravitates toward understated chic, that hint of unexpectedness is exactly what makes it stand out.
Sneakers With Personality
And then, of course, there are the sneakers. If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you’ll know that sneakers are a core part of my day-to-day uniform. But for NYFW, I wanted a pair that felt practical without losing the cool factor.
I landed on a striking black-and-white pair with a retro-inspired silhouette, and I’ve been wearing them nonstop ever since. They’re as comfortable as they are stylish—perfect for running between shows or grabbing coffee in between. The graphic contrast of black and white adds a little punch to otherwise neutral outfits, while the vintage-inspired shape nods to classic streetwear. It’s that perfect mix of functional and fun that makes me want to reach for them every single morning.
Mixing Casual With Polished
If there’s one theme tying all of these pieces together, it’s balance. I love mixing casual staples with slightly dressier elements to create looks that feel approachable yet elevated. The oversized coat brings sophistication to sneakers and denim. The pale gray knit feels cozy, yet its refined shade keeps the whole outfit looking intentional. Even the sneakers, with their bold graphic edge, strike the perfect contrast against the softness of the knit and the structure of the coat.
That, to me, is the heart of modern style: the ability to blend ease with elegance, comfort with chic. It’s about making pieces work harder by choosing them thoughtfully, then mixing them in ways that reflect your mood and lifestyle.
Why These Pieces Work Beyond Fashion Week
The best part? These aren’t just NYFW moments—they’re wardrobe staples I’ll be wearing on repeat. An oversized coat, a neutral chunky knit, and a standout pair of sneakers are the kind of investment pieces that anchor a closet. They’re versatile, timeless, and endlessly adaptable.
You can dress the coat up with sleek trousers and heeled boots for dinner. The knit works just as beautifully over a satin slip skirt as it does with distressed denim. And the sneakers? Pair them with everything from leggings on errand days to tailored trousers for a chic high-low mix.
Fashion Week or not, these are the pieces that simplify dressing while still making you feel stylish.
Final Thoughts
As much as I love the glamour of fashion shows and the thrill of experimenting with trends, I’ve learned that true style often lies in the pieces you reach for again and again. For me, it’s this trifecta: an oversized coat that adds polish, a chunky knit turtleneck that provides comfort and versatility, and sneakers that bring personality and practicality.
These staples remind me that fashion doesn’t have to be complicated to make an impact. Sometimes, it’s the cozy, reliable, beautifully made pieces that feel the most inspiring—and those are exactly the ones I’ll be wearing long after the final NYFW show ends.
