New Yorkers Define Street Style at SS27 Fashion Week

New York Fashion Week attendees have outlined the city's unique approach to personal style for the SS27 season. The street style outside shows often outshines the runway, with locals embracing a 'just go for it' mentality.

A bubble of positivity marked the September 2026 event, following an active summer. The publication asked attendees what makes an outfit feel authentically New York.

The New York Attitude

For many, it's an intangible confidence. Mackenzie described it as a swag and a "slyness, an 'in on', not a joke, but on knowing the truth of the world." Valentino agreed, stating you can tell a true New Yorker by their "specific swag." Others pointed to a practical, world-weary elegance. Rian said New Yorkers look "'of the world', like you actually live in your clothes and make use of them." Atiya identified a purposeful walk: "'I'm going somewhere, and I have to get there soon'."

Natalie contrasted the city's style with others, noting New York looks are "very chic, very classic" and don't veer into cosplay or feel "too much like LA." Riska offered a more raw perspective: "They look like shit, and they can pull it off."

The Rule of Bold Choices

The overwhelming advice was to embrace fearlessness. Mackenzie's tip was blunt: "Just go for it, bitch. If there's something in the back of your closet that you're terrified of, wear it." Manny echoed the sentiment, advising to "make a statement" and "dress to impress every time you step out."

This manifests in inventive combinations. Kayra said New Yorkers put "pieces together that you would think don't make sense." Fritzie noted "any type of experimentation" is key, with people wearing "anything and everything." Jing encouraged wearing "huge gowns and really elaborate things," adding that "people will look right past you."

Balancing Comfort and Creativity

Practicality is a non-negotiable counterpoint to boldness. Multiple attendees stressed comfort, especially for footwear, due to the city's walking demands. India's tip was simply "comfort on the feet so that you don't have to wait for a car." Jing advised "optimising comfort because you never know how long you’re going to be walking."

Atiya recommended mixing "a little sexy and a little comfort." Natalie's practical kit includes safety pins, band-aids, and chanclas (flip-flops) in her bag for a swift switch to a Citi Bike. Anna suggested always bringing an extra layer for unpredictable weather.

Stories Behind the Garments

Personal narratives power many outfits. Jing's shirt was found in a one-dollar bin in Cleveland, a discarded item she found perfect. India's vintage set, bought in Paris, has no tags, which she considers "the coolest part." Michelle wore a runway skirt with a long train despite fears, accepting that dragging it is just "part of New York City."

Some items are deeply personal creations. Paola's entire look, including a Margiela-inspired dress, was DIY. Fritzie's bag features an ethically sourced white-tailed deer antler shed on a leather fringe, custom-designed with the founder of Serpentine Eclectics. Kevin wore basketball shoes from his favourite player, Anthony Edwards. Riska's confidence fluctuates with a bondage jacket bought impulsively in Japan, which she only wears for brief moments.

Kobe's tip for a night out was "something skin-tight," while Rian emphasized "clean shoes" and "things that are easy to dance in." The garment, whether a one-dollar shirt or a DIY gown, becomes a tool for self-expression in the urban landscape.