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Hold My Bagel: 30 Iconically Bizarre Fashion Looks That Got Spotted In NYC
CuriositiesJAN 21, 2025

Hold My Bagel: 30 Iconically Bizarre Fashion Looks That Got Spotted In NYC

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New York is one of four big fashion capitals in the world so it’s no surprise that the locals try to dress the part. Their style can be very bold, which sometimes means they’re dressing head to toe in bright colors, plaid, or denim. However, they don’t back down from wearing neutral and comfortable outfits with unique accents either. 
Truly, the city’s fashionscape is a category of its own, which can be hard to describe in words. So this social media project, 'What New York Wears,' puts it into pictures. Scroll down to get a better idea of what New Yorkers’ fashion is all about, and don’t forget to upvote those outfits that you would totally sport in the streets of the Big Apple.
While you're at it, make sure to check out a conversation with fashion expert and the author of The Encyclopedia of New York Fashion, based in New York, Jewel Elizabeth, and New Yorker, thrifter, and fashion enthusiast, Nicholas Portello, who kindly agreed to tell us more about how NYC locals dress.

#21

NYC local in subway wearing a vibrant yellow coat with cartoon art, showcasing unique fashion experimentation.
25points

Meanwhile, summer in such a big city can be very hot and humid so wearing loose and lightweight fabrics is a must. Even though the weather can go to scorching levels, avoid wearing sands and choose lightweight and protective sneakers or flats, as they’re more practical and provide safety in case you step on sharp objects. Have a lightweight jacket handy too, as microclimates like subways can get quite chilly.

#22

NYC local in experimental fashion on a bicycle at night, wearing a black outfit with glowing red backpack eyes.
25points

#23

NYC local in vibrant fashion with a yellow fur coat and colorful pants, showcasing street style creativity.
25points

#24

NYC local in a creative outfit standing inside a transparent bubble on a city street, showcasing unique New York fashion.
24points

Lastly, bring a backpack. Although it may seem counterintuitive, as tourists are often spotted wearing these bags, it’s not weird to carry a backpack around New York. It allows people to bring everything they will need throughout the day, as quickly heading home to change isn’t usually an option. This is great news for travelers—they can bring water bottles and extra layers without standing out.

#25

NYC local showcases bold fashion with angel wings on a street, exemplifying experimental style.
24points

#26

NYC local in eclectic fashion: green pants, colorful shirt, gray knit mask, on a city street experimenting with style.
23points

#27

NYC local wearing an oversized pants costume with a suitcase, showcasing experimental fashion on a city street.
23points

All in all, try not to overthink it too much and enjoy playing with fashion when in New York! Thirsty for more New York oddities? Check out our previous article on all things weird and cool that happened there, or go for our piece on some of the awesome things New Yorkers have thrown away.

#28

NYC local wearing bright green Crocs and striped socks, showcasing bold fashion experimentation on city streets.
22points

#29

Quirky sneaker with facial features, showcasing experimental fashion on a New York local.
18points

#30

NYC local wearing unique sneakers with curled toes and a pink patterned skirt, showcasing experimental fashion.
16points
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