New York City in May brings warm temperatures and a mix of sunshine and spring showers. With highs averaging 68°F (20°C) and lows around 54°F (12°C), packing for the changeable spring weather is key. As the trees bud and tulips blossom across the city, New Yorkers ditch their winter woolens and welcome the new season.
Outfits for Daytime
Casual Daytime Activities
For sightseeing, walking around neighborhoods, or spending time in parks, pack layers you can add or remove as needed. Temperatures may quickly rise to a pleasant 70°F (21°C) or drop back down again if it rains. Start with a short sleeve tee or lightweight button-down shirt. Bring a sweater or hoodie in case of chillier weather. Pants like dark jeans, chinos, or leggings with a skirt work well for comfort and style.
Make sure to wear comfy walking shoes as you’ll likely log plenty of miles. Sneakers or slip-on shoes like Converse low tops are perfect. Add some fun socks to show off a pop of color and style if it gets warm enough to ditch the shoes! A lightweight water-resistant jacket is also handy in case of rain showers.
Evenings Out
As temperatures cool in the evenings, long sleeves and pants or leggings keep you comfortable for dinner or shows. Pair a nice blouse or polished tee with a jacket, scarf or jeans and booties. Gentlemen look sharp in button-downs, sweaters, blazers and chinos.
If you’ll be outside, bring an extra layer like a jean or leather jacket. Temperatures can quickly drop into the 40s after sundown. A packable down puffer jacket folds up small but insulates well.
For cocktails or upscale dining, smart casual looks still work beautifully. A pretty dress or heels dress up an outfit while still feeling comfortable for long nights out. Just make sure to also pack a wrap or coat that coordinates.
What to Wear During Rainy Weather
Choosing the Right Waterproof Layers
Spring showers happen often in New York, so come prepared with water-resistant layers. A lightweight windproof shell or water-resistant anorak style jacket works for both men and women. Brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Marmot offer options to match any price point.
Look for a jacket with sealed seams, a hood, and venting zippers to adapt to changing weather. For extra wet weather gear, pack waterproof pants or a poncho so you can still enjoy the sights rain or shine.
Make sure your footwear can withstand puddles too. Waterproof hikers or rain boots paired with wool socks keep your feet warm and dry all day. Bring an extra pair of dry socks to change into in case your shoes do get soggy.
Styling for the Elements
Don’t let temperamental May weather dampen your NYC trip! Embrace the raindrops by packing colorful rain boots or a fun patterned poncho. Brands like Hunter and Joules offer cheerful options to chase away the grays on a rainy day.
Water-resistant baseball caps keep the drizzle off your face so you can still explore. Pair them with hoodies, lightweight jackets with hoods or umbrellas when the showers intensify. For umbrellas, compact travel models tuck neatly into purses and backpacks.
The key is versatility – build outfits with quick-dry fabrics that layer well and resist moisture. Breathable merino wool makes ideal base layers to keep you warm without overheating. Synthetics like nylon dry quickly and wick moisture away from the skin. Top them with waterproof shells as needed to take on the tempestuous spring weather in style!
Packing Tips
The Best Fabrics and Materials
When packing for shoulder season weather that can quickly change from sunny to rainy, choose adaptable fabrics that morph to match the conditions:
- Cotton - Great for cool, casual days when temps stay mild. Avoid if rain is likely as it absorbs moisture and dries slowly
- Denim - Perfect weight for spring in dark washes. Styles with some stretch move easily and feel comfy for all-day wear
- Merino Wool - Naturally moisture wicking and temperature regulating. Use for base layers that won’t get stinky.
- Synthetics - Look for nylon, microfiber or poly-blend shirts, pants and layers. These dry quickly and resist moisture.
- Packable Down or PrimaLoft - Light as a feather but keeps you toasty. Stash jackets pack tightly into bags.
- Waterproof Breathable Fabrics - Materials like Gore-Tex protect from rain and wind while venting heat. Essential for outer layers.
Must-Have Accessories
Round out your versatile spring looks with handy accessories:
- Lightweight scarves – stylish wrapped loosely or tightly to warm up in shifting temps
- Portable umbrellas – compact models to tuck in your bag for unexpected showers
- Rain boots or waterproof sneakers – Don’t let wet weather soak your feet!
- Fashionable hats – Baseball caps, newsboy caps or wool fedoras finish a look and protect from drizzle
- Packable tote – When the weather clears, carry purchases in a lightweight bag
- Crossbody purses – Keep essentials close without juggling while exploring
- Sunglasses and gloves – Be ready for the sunshine...or snow? Hey, it could happen!
What to Wear for Specific Activities
Sightseeing and Walking Tours
From the Met museum to Central Park to the Statue of Liberty, New York bursts with iconic sights. Pack these perfect walking tour looks:
Women:
- Stretch jeans or leggings – dark washes move comfortably all day
- Light sweater layer – for temperamental spring temps
- Long sleeve tee or blouse – merino wool regulates temperature
- Water resistant windbreaker – Like the Patagonia Houdini pullover
- Packable down puffer coat – Warm extra layer without bulk
- Tennis shoes or slip on sneakers – Add some styles with arch support
Men:
- Dark wash jeans – Look polished but are comfy enough for miles
- Quick dry polo shirt – moisture wicking performance wear
- Merino sweater or hoodie – Regulates temperature naturally
- Lightweight windbreaker – Resists rain and windchill
- Waterproof trail runners – Grip well on uneven city surfaces
- Baseball cap or wool newsboy cap – Shields from sun and showers
Outdoor Concerts and Events
Lively street fairs and concerts heat up in May with festivals like the Tribeca Film Fest. Weather can start balmy then drop into the 40s after dark. Prioritize layers:
Women:
- Patterned sundress or skirt – Pretty when sunny but layers well
- Colorful cardigan or jean jacket – Warms up breezy evenings
- Tall boots or booties – Stylish shoes that won’t pinch after hours on your feet
- Scarves and gloves – Toasty as temps fall. Stash in your bag!
- Poncho or anorak jacket – Don’t let rain ruin the fun!
Men:
- Dark jeans and casual button-down – Polished enough for a date night
- Shacket overshirt – Flannel or sherpa lining adds warmth
- Lightweight puffer vest – Arms stay free while core stays warm
- Wool crew socks – Resists odor so you can go sockless in canvas sneakers
- Newsboy flat cap – Dapper accessory shields from showers
Business Meetings
If work happens on your NYC vacation, you’ll want to dress the part! Blend professional looks with comfort:
Women:
- Sheath dress – Sophisticated poly-blend styles move with you
- Blazer – Pairs perfectly with dresses or blouses
- Medium heels – Boost your height without pain
- Structured tote – Carries a laptop or documents organized
- Burberry-style rain trench – Repels rain without ruining your workwear look
Men:
- Oxford shirt – Crisp cotton button-down looks sharp
- Wool dress pants – Resists wrinkles well when traveling
- Textured vest or sweater – Adds visual interest and warmth
- Leather brogues – Water resistant for city streets and puddles
- Slim wool topcoat – Have a polished cold-weather look ready
Just make sure to pack comfy travel clothes to slip into for your flight or train ride!
Conclusion
May in the city promises sunshine and spring renewal along with a few showers to keep things blooming. Pack lightweight layers you can mix and match to adapt to the mercurial weather. Temperatures fluctuate so outfit staples like sweaters, scarves and jackets transition to keep you comfortably exploring.
Make sure outer layers can resist rain, and shoes won’t slow you down if the sidewalks get wet. With the right versatile spring looks, you’ll be ready to embrace whatever the weather throws your way this May in New York!
