The 2025 Fall New York Fashion Week has officially come to a close, but as always, the real magic happens on the streets. New York’s fashion scene is one of the best reflections of the pulse of the city, and this year, I noticed something fascinating. While oversized silhouettes and head-to-toe monochrome outfits will always have their place in fashion, a new trend has started to take over the streets: the ladylike aesthetic. From the Upper East Side to the streets of Brooklyn, there’s a shift towards elegance, refinement, and sophistication.
It’s exciting to see how the everyday New Yorker is incorporating elements of high fashion with a modern twist. This year’s street style was different. It felt like a perfect blend of old-world glamour with new-age flair, and I couldn’t help but get inspired. There’s something about the ladylike style that’s so timeless yet fresh, and as someone who thrives on style experimentation, I couldn’t wait to share my thoughts on this elegant yet approachable trend.
How I Achieve the Ladylike Look
Achieving a ladylike look doesn’t require a total wardrobe overhaul. For me, it’s about finding those staple pieces that exude sophistication without being too fussy. Incorporating things like leather gloves, crystal brooches, classic coats, and tailored trousers are great ways to channel this chic style. Let me break down the key pieces I’ve found most inspiring during NYFW and show you how I’m planning to adopt this style into my everyday outfits.
1. Leather Gloves: Apparis Gwen Faux Leather Gloves – $145
One of the first things that caught my attention on the streets during Fashion Week were leather gloves. I’ve always thought of them as a classic accessory, but I wasn’t quite prepared for how much they could transform an outfit. The Apparis Gwen Faux Leather Gloves are a perfect example. These gloves are soft, structured, and definitely have that ladylike feel to them. The best part? They’re versatile enough to pair with anything from a sleek wool coat to a cozy sweater, and they add that elegant touch that makes your whole outfit feel elevated.
I absolutely love how a simple pair of gloves can change the mood of an outfit. I’ve worn them with both tailored jackets and oversized outerwear, and it’s amazing how they pull everything together. They make a statement without being too over the top.
2. Tweed Coat: Liberowe Tweed Imperial Coat – $3,000
Now, if there’s one thing that screams “sophisticated elegance,” it’s a tweed coat. The Liberowe Tweed Imperial Coat has this timeless charm to it, but there’s something about it that feels very modern too. The material is luxe, and the oversized silhouette creates a flattering shape that works on pretty much everyone. I’ve always been a fan of the texture tweed brings to a piece, and this coat is no exception—it’s perfect for layering over a structured outfit or for throwing on during chilly mornings when you still want to look put together.
Tweed coats have a vintage vibe, but I love how they can be styled in so many different ways. For me, pairing this with a turtleneck and tailored trousers gives me the exact look I want: elegant, yet approachable.
3. Brooch: Jennifer Behr Antinea Faux Pearl Crystal Brooch – $250
Another accessory that really caught my eye was the brooch, which I noticed everywhere at NYFW. The Jennifer Behr Antinea Faux Pearl Crystal Brooch is simply stunning. Brooches are often overlooked these days, but I’ve found that they can really elevate an outfit. Whether I’m wearing it on a blazer, a coat, or even a sweater, this brooch just adds that touch of glamour and sparkle that I love. The pearls and crystals give it a refined feel, yet it’s not too formal. It’s delicate but makes a lasting impression.
I’ve worn it as a statement piece pinned to the collar of my coat, and it makes my outfit feel a little more polished without requiring too much effort. It’s such a subtle yet powerful accessory, and I think it’s one that I’ll be incorporating into my wardrobe regularly this season.
Key Pieces for the Ladylike Look
Building the perfect ladylike look doesn’t just rely on accessories—it’s also about having those classic wardrobe staples that fit seamlessly into any outfit. Here are a few of the items I’m adding to my wardrobe this season:
4. Suede Clutch: Khaite Audrey Clutch – $2,200
When it comes to handbags, I always look for something that’s both chic and versatile. The Khaite Audrey Clutch ticks both of those boxes for me. It’s sleek, structured, and made from rich suede—an absolute dream. What I love about this clutch is how it’s simple yet incredibly luxurious. I can wear it with a formal evening look or even pair it with a more casual daytime outfit. It’s the kind of piece that adds a polished touch without overshadowing the rest of the ensemble.
The way this clutch elevates my outfit is something I can’t get enough of. Whether I’m heading to dinner or just running errands, this piece always feels so intentional and put together.
5. Navy Pants: Veronica Beard Cole Wide-Leg Pants – $398
A pair of tailored pants is always an essential part of any wardrobe, and the Veronica Beard Cole Wide-Leg Pants are the perfect example of ladylike sophistication. The navy hue is both classic and versatile, while the wide-leg fit offers a flattering shape. I’ve always gravitated toward tailored trousers because they instantly make me feel more polished, and these ones are no exception. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether I’m pairing them with a chic blouse for work or with a cozy knit for the weekend.
I’ve worn them with both heels and flats, and no matter the pairing, they always feel elegant and put together. These pants are definitely one of my go-to items for achieving that ladylike vibe.
Experimenting with Color and Texture
One of the things I love most about the ladylike aesthetic is how you can play with color and texture while keeping everything balanced and refined. I noticed that the NYFW street style was full of rich textures and vibrant hues that didn’t overwhelm the outfit. Here’s how I’ve been incorporating these elements into my own look:
6. Patterned Scarf: Gucci Animal and Floral Print Scarf – $520
I’m usually more into solid colors, but I couldn’t help but fall for the Gucci Animal and Floral Print Scarf that I saw at NYFW. The mix of floral patterns with animal prints felt like a perfect balance between bold and elegant. This scarf is such a fun statement piece—its rich colors and intricate patterns bring some playfulness to any outfit.
I love pairing it with a neutral coat or even a simple sweater. The scarf just adds that extra layer of dimension and interest to my outfit, making it feel more dynamic without losing that polished, ladylike vibe.
7. Double-Breasted Wool Coat: & Other Stories Double-Breasted Wool Coat – $350
A double-breasted wool coat is one of my all-time favorite wardrobe staples, and the & Other Stories Double-Breasted Wool Coat is the latest addition to my collection. I adore the structured silhouette, which feels classic and timeless. This coat is one of those pieces that just works—whether I’m wearing it over a casual outfit or a more formal one, it always looks chic.
The beauty of a wool coat is that it can be worn with almost anything. I’ve worn this particular one with everything from wide-leg trousers to simple dresses, and it instantly elevates my look.
Transitioning to Spring: Ladylike Styles for Warmer Weather
Although it’s still cold out, spring is just around the corner, and I’m already thinking about how to transition these ladylike pieces into the warmer months. NYFW street style gave me so many ideas for how to incorporate lighter fabrics and more playful elements into my outfits as the weather warms up.
8. Trench Coat: Altuzarra Billie Double-Breasted Wool Trench Coat – $3,495
A trench coat is the ultimate spring essential, and I couldn’t resist adding the Altuzarra Billie Double-Breasted Wool Trench Coat to my wardrobe. The structure is so flattering, and the funnel-neck design gives it a modern, chic twist. I love how versatile trench coats are—whether I’m wearing it with a dress or pairing it with jeans, it always feels stylish and practical.
I’m excited to wear this coat more as the temperatures rise, as it’s the perfect lightweight outerwear piece for transitional weather.
9. High-Heeled Boots: Saint Laurent Anne Marie Leather Pumps – $1,100
A pair of high-heeled boots is a must-have for the cooler months, and the Saint Laurent Anne Marie Leather Pumps are simply gorgeous. They have a sleek, pointed toe and a slim, elegant heel that adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit. These boots are perfect for dressing up a simple outfit, but they also look great with tailored trousers for a more polished, everyday look.
They’ve quickly become one of my favorite pairs of shoes, and I can’t wait to keep wearing them as the seasons shift.
Where to Shop for These Chic Pieces
For anyone looking to recreate
this ladylike style, there are some amazing places to shop. Here are a few of my favorite online retailers:
- Saks Fifth Avenue: A go-to destination for luxurious, timeless pieces. You’ll find the best brands like Liberowe, Jennifer Behr, and Khaite.
- Net-A-Porter: A curated selection of high-end pieces, including Saint Laurent and Gucci.
- SSENSE: For those who love mixing edgy and elegant, SSENSE has a great selection of both Tory Burch and Loewe.
The streets of New York Fashion Week have reminded me that elegance never goes out of style. By incorporating these key ladylike pieces into my wardrobe, I feel more confident and put together, and I can’t wait to continue experimenting with these timeless elements. Whether it’s adding a luxurious coat or a simple brooch, this chic aesthetic is all about embracing sophistication in the most effortless way.