A summer trip to New York City usually means two things—plenty of fun outdoor activities to choose from such as boat cruises and art events (Shakespeare in the Park, anyone?), and weather that’s, unfortunately, less than ideal. How so, you may ask? Let’s just say that walking around surrounded by towering concrete and glass buildings while it’s 90 degrees out and humid can feel like you are stuck in a hot oven. So before you head to the city this summer, make sure you’ve packed all the right items.
Opt for lighter-hued pieces and leave anything black at home. Choose natural fabrics that are airy and that will keep you cool such as cotton and linen. You may not think that this is important but trust us, you don’t want to be wearing polyester or nylon while you’re waiting for the train on a crowded subway platform underground.
And don’t forget to pack a pair of swim trunks, because on those scorching hot days in the city, the only reasonable thing is to do is head to one of the city’s rooftop pools and enjoy the gorgeous views with a beer or a cocktail in hand.
Now, check out all the summer essentials you need to pack.
Brunello Cucinelli Espadrilles
Espadrilles are the quintessential summer footwear. This classic pair is crafted from suede and canvas and oozes a relaxed yet elegant vibe.
To buy: $695, brunellocucinelli.com
Loro Piana Mélange Slub-linen Drawstring Shorts
Leave it to Loro Piana to create a stylish pair of shorts perfect for city dwellers and visitors. Crafted from lightweight linen, these shorts will keep you feeling comfortable and looking your best during the hot summer months in the city.
To buy: $495, mrporter.com
Ermenegildo Zegna Regular Fit Print Sport Shirt
A well-made sport shirt like this one from Ermenegildo Zegna is the perfect option for a night out in Manhattan. Just roll up the sleeves if it’s a particularly warm and humid evening in the city. It’s crafted from airy cotton and linen blend that will keep you cool.
To buy: $395, nordstrom.com
AG Everett SUD Slim Straight Fit Pants
These pants sport a slim, straight leg silhouette and are made from cotton and elastane to keep you comfortable.
To buy: $178, nordstrom.com
Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Belt Bag in Tweedia
Ditch your bulky backpack in the hotel and opt for a stylish belt bag like this one from Bottega Veneta. It’s handmade in Italy and sports the company’s signature intrecciato pattern.
To buy: $1,600, botegavenetta.com
Balenciaga Logo-embroidered Cotton-twill Baseball Cap
Jump on the logomania bandwagon with this Balenciaga baseball cap—a stylish and necessary summer staple.
To buy: $450, mrporter.com
Sennheiser True Wireless Headphones
Having a pair of noise-canceling headphones is always useful when you’re on the subway. These sleek ones from Sennheiser come in four different ear tip sizes for a perfect fit. They have a built-in microphone so you can take phone calls and the battery charge will last you the entire day.
To buy: $300, sennheiser.com
Onia Calder Geometric Swim Trunks
One a particularly hot day, head to one of the city’s rooftop pools. This pair of swim trunks sports a banded waist with s snap button closure and it also has a flap pocket at the back.
To buy: $225, barneys.com
Issey Miyake L'Eau d'Issey Pour Homme Eau de Toilette
Wearing heavy fragrances in the city especially during the day is a definite no. Instead, opt for light eau de cologne or eau de toilette. The L’Eau d’Issey pour Homme features notes of mandarin, sage, cypress wood, verbena, and coriander—the scent is incredibly fresh, masculine and just perfect for summer.
To buy: $94, nordstrom.com
Prada Sunglasses
These aviator-inspired sunglasses have a sleek half-rimmed silhouette and feature a cool tortoise-hued brow bar.
To buy: $380, sunglasshut.com
David Donahue Houndstooth Polo
This cotton polo shirt sports a mini-houndstooth pattern in blue and white. It also has a three-button placket and a rolled collar.
To buy: $155, nordstrom.com
