How to Dress Like You're in SoHo, New York

Although I have traveled to New York City many times, one aspect of the city that never fails to impress me is the style. This past week, I spent some time in SoHo and observed the outfits I saw on the street.  

In case you aren't familiar with it, SoHo (short for South of Houston St.) is best known for its huge variety of shops. (Not to mention that there are a ton of amazing restaurants to choose from!)

However, in my opinion, one of the most impressive aspects of SoHo is the unique sense of effortless style that's constantly on display. The area is popular with models, celebrities, and fashionable people alike -- just sitting on a bench and watching the people go by is like watching a fashion show.

Outfit #1

Products: Cardigan - Zappos, Earrings - Trouva, Hair Clip - J.Crew Factory, Pants - H&M, T-Shirt - Gap, Belt - Old Navy, Bag - Mango, Sneakers - Zappos

If I had to pick out the quintessential SoHo outfit, it would look something like this one, which is simple, elegant, and classic while still being modern and trendy.

Start by tucking a plain white t-shirt into a pair of minimal wide-leg black pants. Next, throw on a long, loose-fitting cardigan in a neutral shade (although a long, baggy coat would also work well).

To avoid drowning in the bagginess of the outfit, use a simple black belt to cinch the cardigan at your waist and add some definition.

As far as footwear goes, New Yorkers do a lot of walking, so grab a comfortable pair of white sneakers; Adidas Stan Smiths are a favorite amongst the SoHo crowd.

Delicate jewelry is literally everywhere in SoHo, so slip on a dainty and fashion-forward choker necklace and some cute tiny flat circle stud earrings. Modern hair clips are popular as well, so if you have long hair, put it back in a half-pony or bun using a sleek metallic hair clip.

To finish off your look, pick up a bucket bag with cool details and you've got yourself a super-stylish outfit that is sure to fit right in with SoHo's fashion elite.

Products: Jacket - H&M, T-Shirt - J.Crew, Skirt - Nordstrom, Earrings - Barneys Warehouse, Cross-Body Bag - Barneys Warehouse, Combat Boots - Zappos (More sizes on the Steve Madden website.)

If your look is skews more bohemian, try adding a SoHo spin to it by incorporating sleek, edgy pieces and a neutral color palette.  

Leather moto jackets (whether real or faux) are a go-to in SoHo right now due to changing Spring temperatures, so start by throwing one on over a plain gray t-shirt and boho maxi skirt.

To lend some extra toughness to your look, put on a pair of black combat boots that look like they were made for walking around SoHo's boutique-lined streets.

As for accessories, this timeless black cross-body bag lends just the right amount of classiness to any outfit, while a chic gold bracelet and unique pear-shaped hoops add a touch of shine to an otherwise neutral look.

Products: Jeans - Loft, Baseball Cap - boohoo, Hoodie - Macy's, Tote - Macy's, Pins - Lord & Taylor, Phone Case - italist.com, Sneakers - Nordstrom

Although SoHo is definitely a fashion-forward and glamorous place as far as fashion (and, well, everything else) goes, a lot of people that I've seen in the area tend to prefer a more laid-back look.

This cute millennial pink hoodie takes on an extra-modern feel when paired with a pair of step-hem skinny jeans that are perfect for Spring 2017, while pair of classic black Vans and a take-everywhere tote bag are perfect for those who commute a lot.

One thing I have noticed is that people in SoHo, and in New York in general, are always on their phones -- whether they're on the subway or sitting in a trendy café, people in SoHo are definitely into keeping up with the latest goings-on. Naturally, then, it's only logical to invest in cute tech accessories, such as this fun phone case, to make sure that your gadgets looks as good as you do.

Also, I've noticed that pins and patches are everywhere; the patch-pin hybrids here are perfect for attaching to your bag, your top, your jacket...the possibilities are endless!  Bonus: This set includes an adorable dog design made to look like a Boston Terrier, one of the small dog breeds that I've seen across SoHo.