There’s something magical about NYC at Christmastime, but I assure you it’s not the freezing weather.

In order to make the most of the weekend without freezing to an icicle, I’ve carefully formulated two daytime outfits with lots of layers. My evening outfit consists of quite possibly the warmest dress ever and thick winter tights. Luckily the evening will be spent mostly indoors.

As always when packing, I’ve focused on packing as lightly as possible. While this can be difficult to do when incorporating thick winter layers, I’ve decided to repeat a few items to cut down on the number of things I’m stuffing into my bag (scroll to the bottom of this post for a full, pinable packing guide).

 

Saturday morning – Bolt Bus from Union Station to NYC

I am heading to Union Station bright and early to catch the first bus out of the station. I will arrive to NYC before lunch with any luck. The afternoon will be spent relaxing with friends.

Wool coat (similar) / Skinny jeans (similar) / Sweater (similar)
Sunglasses / Shoulder bag / Converse / Watch

I particularly love this hand bag because while it does not appear to be that large, it fits my DSLR camera in addition to everything else I normally carry. The long strap comes in handy when it gets heavy or I need my hands free to take pictures. And always wear a watch while traveling so you don’t miss your ticket!

 

Saturday evening – Holiday Party in Hoboken

Some of my college friends live in Hoboken and since we are frequently having reunions, we have all begun to acquire each other’s friends. Caitlin just may be the best host in the world and along with a few others, plans an annual holiday party for everyone to catch up and celebrate the season.

Party dress (similar) / Black tights / Booties (similar) / Small purse (1 and 2)
Earrings (similar) / Necklace (1, 2 and similar)

I cannot believe how inexpensive the dress is that I’ve linked. I happened upon it one day when I wasn’t even clothing shopping and it is my favorite dress this holiday season – warm and comfy.

I always pack a small purse when I travel, storing electronics and a jewelry bag inside to save space and keep its shape.

 

Sunday – Wandering the city + Bolt Bus from NYC to Union Station

After rolling out of my champagne induced haze, I will head back into the city to meet up with Yuko. I’m so happy to end up in the city at the same time that she’s on break from law school… talk about perfect timing. Since she is a native, I’m counting on her to show me a few fun spots before I head back to the station and hop on a bus home.

Wool coat (similar) / Sweater / Leather leggings / Moto jacket (similar)
Scarf (similar) / Hat + gloves (beanie) / Shoulder bag / Converse

These leggings that I got from H&M are fleece lined and rather warm despite how small they are to pack. Layer texting gloves inside of glittens for extra warmth plus the ability to snap pics and search on your iPhone.

 

I can’t wait to run off to my favorite city this weekend! I’ve always been such a bad tourist but hopefully I’ll hit a few good spots this time around.

Ever been to New York City? When’s your favorite time to visit and what are your must-do’s?

 

Looking for other packing lists? Take a look here or here.

Don’t forget to follow my adventures on instagram so you can watch behind the scenes before my posts go live!

*Image of snowy NYC via Kevin and Amanda