I Moved From L.A. to NYC and Cut My Closet in Half—These 9 Outfits Made the Edit
Welcome to Before I Head Out, a series in which fashion editor Anneliese Henderson rounds up the snaps she's taken of her favorite outfits before heading out the door of her New York home.
It's been about three months since my husband and I moved from our Los Angeles home to our New York City apartment. When we decided to relocate, my first thought was What about all my clothes? Sure, I could have gotten a storage unit. But honestly, this move felt like the perfect time for a purge. And purge I did. My friends and neighbors were probably in heaven with the sheer volume of clothing I offloaded onto them in the days leading up to our move. I kept the essentials—linen pants, versatile tanks, my favorite bags—but everything else had to go. Of course, once I arrived in NYC, I gave myself permission to add a few fresh pieces to the mix. It was a big move—I deserved to treat myself. Keep scrolling to see which pieces made the cut.
These days, with the move and all the chaos that comes with it, my mind is going in a million different directions. I'm not in a routine yet, so decision fatigue is real. Having a matching set like this one from Dissh is a lifesaver because I don't have to think. I just throw it on and know I'll look chic.
Dissh
Charli Tan Stripe Halter Top
Dissh
CHARLI TAN STRIPE PANT
I wore this outfit on repeat in L.A., and thankfully, it's translated perfectly to NYC. It's simple: jeans (not just any jeans, but my tried-and-true Free People barrel jeans) and a classic tank. The finishing touch that I didn't have in L.A.? My Chanel 20 bag, which I borrowed from Bag Borrow or Steal this month. It's a dreamy bag and proof that one standout piece can elevate the whole vibe.
Chanel
22 Mini Shoulder Bag
Free People
We the Free Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans
Reformation
Hudson Knit Top
We moved to Brooklyn, but my Gossip Girl–loving, preppy side still makes an appearance now and then. This look is very "country club meets cool girl in the city"—white low-rise jeans, a black cardigan, ballet flats, and of course, my Chanel crossbody.
Free People
Nocturnal Solid Cardi
Free People
We the Free Tennessee Low-Rise Boyfriend Jeans
Tony Bianco
Martinez Flat
In L.A., dressing for the office was definitely more relaxed. And while our NYC office isn't overly formal, I do find myself leaning into a more polished vibe. When I posted this fit on IG, I got a flurry of "you're my lawyer" comments. The red sweater from Almina Concept has been a go-to since I picked it up last fall. On weekends, I'll tie it around my shoulders with an all-white look. It's cozy and practical, especially when the wind picks up along the river.
Almina Concept
Wool V Neck Sweater
Freja New York
Mercer Bag Black
I wear these shorts so often that I should probably invest in a backup pair. (I'm putting my washing machine to work!) I style them with pretty much everything, but lately I've been pairing them with an easy tank (this one is $20 from Amazon) for a no-fuss, everyday look.
