Dressing for summer in New York City is its own skill and art form. I always feel like I'm sticky and melting the second I leave the house during the day. While I often find myself constantly asking, What do I even wear? And yes, during the depths of winter, the same question resurfaces whenever it's over 80 degrees.
When I want to feel excited about getting dressed again, regardless of the weather, I have a list of TikTok accounts I turn to when I want to feel inspired again. They're all people with distinct personal style, with their own niche tastes, who make me want to shop.
From cult-favorites to under-the-radar designers, I asked three of my favorite NYC fashion people on TikTok what they're buying for summer. Here what's on their lists.
Carolyn Chang
I genuinely look forward to Carolyn's monthly favorites videos. Her May edit included bejeweled Havaianas, fun bags, and one of my all-time favorite niche fragrances, Ground by Gabar. She formerly worked in fashion PR and usually shares playful pieces, beauty products, and styling advice.
"Word on the street says Havianas are going to be the shoes of the summer. The styling possibilities with are endless, and I'm a huge advocate for the square toe. I love that something so simple and affordable can actually make your outfit look more expensive." — Carolyn Chang
"Cou Cou Intimates not only captures that effortless '90s French-girl vibe, but their clothes are all made from light and flirty summertime fabrics like pointelle and organic cotton. Their clothes are also super easy to mix and match, so I like that I can build a cohesive outfit without putting in much effort." — Chang
"I've always referenced Y2K in my style, and something about the iconic check print on a bikini is speaking to me for this summer. I've been looking a lot at Victoria Beckham's style in the early 2000s, and she would rock a Burberry bikini with the matching bandana. So iconic." — Chang
"In true New Yorker fashion, it looks like I'm wearing all black this summer, so breathable fabrics are key. This sheer silk skirt is the perfect combination of flattering yet comfortable." — Chang
"If you were to ask me for one beauty product that's worth the hype, this would be my answer. They're sold out at Sephora for a reason! I've tried countless lip balms, but nothing moisturizes while still giving me the shine of a lip gloss like Le ChouChou. The metal tip also makes the application feel luxurious." — Chang
"With sunglasses, I either love them super skinny, or they need to cover two-thirds of my face. I'm already envisioning how I'll be wearing these. The vibe is being hungover at the airport, but make it chic." — Chang
"This dress caught my eye because it reminds me of Carrie Bradshaw's little gray dress in season 2 of [Sex and the City]. This summer, I'm looking for flattering, minimalist pieces that can be easily styled up or down." — Chang
"My favorite product to wear in the summer is a blush that makes you look like you were frying in the sun all day, so you can be sun-kissed minus the skin damage. I'm obsessed with the formula of this blush and how easily it melts into my skin." — Chang
"I love an elevated basic, especially with a backless moment. This tank is sort of like a racerback with a more elegant, sexy twist." — Chang
"The hot girls are dressing like Adam Sandler this summer—you heard it here first! I'm mostly just saying that because I love being comfortable, plus I think basketball shorts are insanely fun to style." — Chang
Cheyenne Grenaway
Cheyenne is one of those content creators who makes you feel like you're just catching up with a friend. I first followed her for her product recommendations (she loves brands like Fara Homadi, Pat McGrath, Rhode, and Rōz), but I also love her grounded energy and thoughtful point of view. She shares across fashion, beauty, writing, and the arts. Now and then, she opens up about stories about her family and personal life that add another layer of depth and vulnerability to her videos, which I always appreciate.
"The one piece of jewelry that never leaves my body is my gold band. I love a thick piece of jewelry, but one that doesn't necessarily scream. There is also just something about the tan line it leaves in the summer that does it for me." — Cheyenne Grenaway
"Fara Homidi Beauty has become one of my favorite brands out there. [It's] founded by celebrity makeup artist Fara Homidi, who I have been lucky enough to call a friend of mine along the way. Her brand is exactly where I want to live: the intersection of fashion and beauty. She blends effortless with high quality. Everything she touches is pure gold, and I doubt this will be any different. A natural-looking bronzer in what continues to be the most incredible packaging. This is my number one summer beauty purchase currently planned!" — Grenaway
"Nothing like a slouchy, worn-in jean in the summer. I have far too many pairs, but somehow never stop looking for the perfect pair. Here is a pair that I think does a great job replicating the look of the vintage Levi's I own. Sometimes, men's clothes are just cut in a way that I prefer!" — Grenaway
"I purchased the Repetto Camilles in Paris three months ago and have not taken them off since. They are the easiest throw-on shoes that shape to your foot. Many steps have and will be taken in these for a New York summer. I will be taking them to a cobbler to secure the soles because I already anticipate wearing holes into the bottom of these." — Grenaway
"These Oliver Peoples sunglasses are one of their newest frames, and I am enamored. I have stopped into their store three times already just to check that they are as good as I know they are. They are at the top of my to purchase list." — Grenaway
"Just as good as a slouchy jean is a slouchy bag that I can wear into the ground. I am the biggest fan of woven leather or Bottega's forever famous Intrecciato." — Grenaway
"Here is another very cute option for one-fourth of the price." — Grenaway
"I have started paying extra attention to material. Whether it is Gap (regular old Gap, which I love; not necessarily the collab Gap) or Doen, 100% cotton is key to a breathable summer. This is a beautiful option." — Grenaway
"In the summer, if I have access to an SPF and my lip combo, I can make the rest work." — Grenaway
"This is the exact duo that I never leave behind. Throw it on and then add to your cheeks, nose, and forehead for an extra-summery look." — Grenaway
"A summer heeled sandal can be worn with truly anything. And as far as I am concerned, heels are best secondhand." — Grenaway
"A tank top can be worn daily in the kind of heat we experience in the city. This halter is the perfect switch-up to a good classic. I have worn my Studio Tank by Tank Air for two years, and it is just as good as it was brand new. Also, I am a big fan of a plain Hanes tank always." — Grenaway
"I am the biggest lover of a red-toned blush. I think it gives the perfect authentic flush and gives the appearance of fuller cheekbones. This one is perfection." — Grenaway
"These are the sneakers currently on my wishlist. My boyfriend bought them last night—much to his dismay—we will be matching all summer." — Grenaway
"There is nothing like an easy slip to throw on in the summer that is light but still sexy. You could dress it up, or you could wear a zip-up over it at night on an ice cream run. I would take this one to the tailor and make it a midi for a slightly more casual look." — Grenaway
"A fun clog because why not?" — Grenaway
"Lastly, a film camera because you deserve proof of a really good summer. I would die for a Leica, but I also own this one, and she gets the job done for a fact." — Grenaway
Taylor Creel
Taylor is one of the most well-researched people I follow. Her TikToks are like curated guides for people who want to shop with intention. She covers seasonal essentials, emerging brands, trend predictions, and styling ideas that make you rethink what you already own. Nothing feels rushed; everything is carefully considered. She recently moved into a new apartment and started a decorating series as well, so I'm looking forward to continuing to see her interior design and home roundups.
"A baseball cap is my favorite summer accessory. I always get compliments when I wear this one! I think a patterned hat is so nice to have because it will always add something extra fun to every outfit!" — Taylor Creel
"I swear someone has to take my basics away from me because I wear them to the ground. My favorite type of basic is a unique elevated version. For example, this tee is so good. Reminiscent of an everyday T-shirt, but the asymmetrical neckline gives it a cool, effortless feel." — Creel
"As a girl who lives in NYC, cute, walkable shoes are a must-have. I typically go for a ballet flat in the summer because they are cute, easy, and work with a ton of different outfits. To make sure the shoe is walkable, I always look to see how high the back is. If it covers my entire heel, I know it'll take me to at least 10K steps. These flats are perfect for that, and I love the mesh texture." — Creel
"I haven't been able to stop wearing these shorts! I love wearing them with a little Repetto-style heel or ballet flat. They are so light and breathable. perfect for the 80-plus degree days." — Creel
"I find a striped robe to be so chic. This Brooklinen one has been on my wish list for ages and would be perfect to lounge around in at home on a rainy summer day." — Creel
"Of course, I had to recommend a bikini for the summer. In my opinio,n this Hand Over bikini is so cute." — Creel
"I find it so refreshing that there is a matching culotte available because not every girl wants to feel cheeky all the time!" — Creel
"I love any sneaker with silver detailing. I think it's super cool! I recently bought these shoes to complete all my 'hot girl walk' looks this summer. I typically wear all black when working out, so I thought adding a black shoe would complete all my athletic looks!" — Creel
"As a girl who works in beauty, Westman Atelier is one of my absolute favorite brands. It is pricey, but you pay for what you get. The blush, contour, and highlight are my fave, and they come in a trio!" — Creel
"Every girl needs a BAB (big ass bag) in her life. In my opinion, Boat and Totes are so timeless and so fun because you can customize them. Truly the ultimate aesthetic tote bag that works when you're on any errand or just carrying a lot of stuff." — Creel
"Sunglasses are not something we always need to splurge on. I have these from Amazon, and I always get compliments and questions on where they're from!" — Creel
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