I Relocated from L.A. to NYC and Downsized My Closet by 50%—These 9 Outfits Made the Final Cut.
Welcome to Before I Head Out, a series where fashion editor Anneliese Henderson shares snapshots of her favorite outfits right before leaving her New York home. It’s been roughly three months since my husband and I transitioned from our Los Angeles residence to our apartment in New York City. When we decided to move, my immediate concern was, What will happen to all my clothes? Sure, I could have rented a storage unit. But honestly, this felt like the ideal moment for a cleanup. And clean up I did. My friends and neighbors were likely thrilled by the massive amount of clothing I passed on to them in the days leading up to our move. I kept only the essentials—linen pants, versatile tanks, and my favorite bags—but everything else had to be let go. Naturally, once I settled in NYC, I allowed myself to acquire a few new items. It was a significant move—I deserved a little reward. Keep scrolling to see which pieces made the shortlist.
These days, with the move and all the chaos it brings, my thoughts are scattered in many directions. I haven’t established a routine yet, so I experience decision fatigue. Having a matching set like this one from Dissh is a blessing because I don’t have to think about it. I simply put it on and know I’ll look stylish.
Dissh
Charli Tan Stripe Halter Top
Dissh
CHARLI TAN STRIPE PANT
I wore this outfit constantly in L.A., and fortunately, it translates beautifully to NYC. It’s straightforward: jeans (not just any jeans, but my reliable Free People barrel jeans) and a classic tank. The finishing touch I didn’t have in L.A.? My Chanel 20 bag, which I borrowed from Bag Borrow or Steal this month. It’s a stunning bag and demonstrates how one standout piece can elevate an entire look.
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 love for Gossip Girl and preppy style still makes an occasional appearance. This look embodies "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., office attire was definitely more casual. While our NYC office isn’t overly formal, I find myself leaning toward a more polished aesthetic. When I posted this outfit on IG, I received a flurry of "you're my lawyer" comments. The red sweater from Almina Concept has been a staple since I got it last fall. On weekends, I’ll tie it around my shoulders over an all-white ensemble. It’s cozy and practical, especially when the wind picks up by the river.
Almina Concept
Wool V Neck Sweater
Freja New York
Mercer Bag Black
I wear these shorts so frequently that I should consider getting a backup pair. (My washing machine is getting a workout!) I pair them with nearly everything, but lately, I’ve been wearing them with an easy tank (this one is $20 from Amazon) for a simple, everyday look.
Gap
365 Low Rise Linen-Blend Trouser Shorts
Artfish
Scoop Neck Ribbed Knit Cami
Reformation
Claudia Mini Bag
Mansur Gavriel
Fisherman Sandal
I’ve been devoted to this white maxi skirt from Reformation for over two years, and I still receive compliments. To switch things up, I added a cinched pinstripe blazer for a dressier touch. And the shoes? Without a doubt, my favorite part of the outfit. They’re mesh ballet flats from Paige, and I adore that my pedicure can be seen just a little through them.
Naked Wardrobe
Pinstripe Suited Blazer
I kept this outfit minimal to let the shoes take center stage. These suede mules from Maguire Shoes are incredibly chic—the leather is exceptionally soft, and I can wander around for miles without a thought about my feet.
Free People
We the Free Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans
Maguire Shoes
Rafael Brown Suede Pump
Free People
We the Free Perfect Oversized Tee
Coach
Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39
J.Crew
Braided Italian Leather Belt
Ask any fashion editor—drawstring pants are a summer must-have. I actually forgot I had these until I was organizing my closet for the move, and I'm so glad I found them. Yes, they’re great over bikini bottoms for a beach day, but I enjoy dressing them up a bit. I styled them with a strapless top, strappy sandals, and a straw bag. It made a perfect outfit for a day out in
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I Relocated from L.A. to NYC and Downsized My Closet by 50%—These 9 Outfits Made the Final Cut.
From essential basics to fresh seasonal items, explore the pieces a fashion editor chose to retain (and purchased) while adapting her wardrobe from Los Angeles to New York City.
