If You Want to Look Like an NYC Fashion Editor, Then These 6 Chic Brands Are a Must
Out of curiosity, I asked my fellow NYC fashion editors which brands they’re shopping in 2026. To no surprise, their fashion experience and market knowledge were plentiful. I can always trust my Who What Wear colleagues to be well-read on the latest emerging designers and independent labels. Lucky for you, I turned my selfish curiosity into a generous offering: a guide to dressing like an NYC fashion editor. If your New Year’s resolution is to dress chic, then it’s time to listen up. We’re talking 2026 trends like cool-girl drapings, unexpected prints (hello, zebra), chic shearling coats, and so much more.
Below, you’ll find six chic editor-approved fashion brands. But first, here’s a little preview: Geel, an L.A.-based brand, is a favorite of Gen Z editor Audry Hiaoui; Khaite and Toteme make an appearance, and Paloma Wool spotlights.
Read on to discover more standout editor-approved fashion brands. Ring in the New Year with an elevated wardrobe that says, “I know fashion.”
6 Chic Brands NYC Fashion Editors Love
Paloma Wool
“A cult-favorite—Paloma Wool’s cheeky minimalism and distinct visual language acts as a lighthouse for Gen-Z creatives. While some might say it’s conceptual designs only make sense in the confines of a Pinterest board, it’s my duty as a Gen-Z shopping editor to bring the abstract basics beyond the virtual reality of our feeds and onto the chaotic streets of NYC.” — Josephine Hadjiloucas, assistant shopping editor
Paloma Wool
Alberch Strapless Wool Blend Dress With Attached Scarf
Paloma Wool
Tris Sheer Midi Skirt
Paloma Wool
Fase Stretch Suiting Top
Paloma Wool
Fa Cutout Long Sleeve Extrafine Merino Wool Sweater Dress
Khaite
“Khaite is the name that immediately comes to mind. This is largely because the brand is based in NYC, and founder Catherine Holstein truly understands the wardrobe needs of busy New Yorkers—from black tie to office wear and casual brunch. Each season, Khaite offers a dual collection. On one hand, there are the highly wearable, versatile classics, such as denim, cotton, and leather pieces, designed to be effortlessly mixed and matched with items already in one’s closet. On the other hand, the brand presents more experimental, on-trend statement pieces crafted from complex fabrics like viscose, silk organza, and calfhair, allowing shoppers to step outside their comfort zone. This signature combination of soft, delicate, and edgy elements is what attracts a diverse range of dressers in the city. And, speaking from personal experience, the brand’s collection previews are always highly anticipated events among NYC editors, who arrive eager to see which items they plan to add to their wishlists.” — Nikki Chwatt, associate fashion editor
Khaite
Mini Lotus Tote in Zebra Print Haircalf and Black Suede
Khaite
Liria Ankle Strap Sandal in Crystal Blue Ostrich
Khaite
Farley Jean in Benson
Khaite
Arizona Stretch Ankle Boot in Black Nappa Leather
Nour Hammour
“No good conversation around cool-girl brands happens right now without a mention of Nour Hammour. Based in Paris, the label is creating some of the most luxurious outerwear (and skirts and select accessories) that feels like treasured heirlooms. The leather bomber jackets and statement shearling coats, in particular, are the pieces I see all over in New York and speaking from experience, the quality is just as good as it looks.” — Anna LaPlaca, senior fashion editor
NOUR HAMMOUR
Joni Shearling Coat
NOUR HAMMOUR
Cassidy Belted Fringed Suede Jacket
NOUR HAMMOUR
Runa Paneled Leather Bomber Jacket
NOUR HAMMOUR
Paneled Croc-Effect Leather Midi Skirt
NOUR HAMMOUR
Noa Belted Shearling Coat
Geel
“The L.A. brand Geel was one of my favorite discoveries of 2025, and I’ll definitely be shopping from it this year as well. If you like artful basics, the majority of the pieces are priced under $200. ” — Audry Hiaoui, associate shopping editor
Kallmeyer
“There’s no brand serving chic, understated New York-based women better right now than Kallmeyer, probably because the founder, Daniella, is just that—an extremely well-dressed and undeniably cool New Yorker who just gets it. She knows what women want to buy and wear, from floor-sweeping trenches to tailored sets to going-out dresses that toe the line between sexy and sophisticated.” — Eliza Huber, senior fashion editor
KALLMEYER
Constance Herringbone Wool-Blend Coat
KALLMEYER
Regina Silk-Organza Midi Skirt
KALLMEYER
Bridgette Jersey Halterneck Maxi Dress
Kallmeyer
Cotton-Corduroy Wide-Leg Pants
Toteme
“For me, the ultimate New York it-girl brand right now would have to be Toteme. Their recent collections completely define what most New York women I know are looking for—a strong, elevated, and minimalist aesthetic that truly feel distinct and luxurious at first glance.” — Sierra Mayhew, fashion editor
TOTEME
Country Waxed Organic Cotton Jacket
TOTEME
Mini T-Lock Clutch Bag
TOTEME
Signature Trench Coat
TOTEME
Shawl Collar Wool Rib Cardigan
