Best-dressed does not mean trendy or fast fashion “looks” of the moment. It involves looking good, no matter the occasion, and selecting stylish clothes that make a statement. Best-dressed does not even mean owning the most expensive clothes. It’s more about the vibe and attitude that goes with the looks that makes these cities, listed among the best places to live, stand out as the best-dressed areas in America.
New York: Metropolitan Modern
This metropolitan fashion hub of New York City has been the home of high fashion since its inception, which appeals to residents who tend to be in their mid-30s. Every year, fashion weeks display the best of local designers as well as those from around the world. With Wall Street and business districts, as well as celebrity hot spots, club culture, and diverse neighborhoods, this is the fashionable city to spot the latest statements alongside traditional designs. Many up-and-coming urban fashion designers show their looks here while international fashion brands open up stores in this modern metropolis.
Los Angeles: Beach City Vibe
With residents averaging in their early 40s, Los Angeles is still fashion conscious. It’s where you can go from swimsuit and shorts to formal wear in the same day. It’s a city that offers all types of fashion, from local surfboard designers to casual chic like American Apparel. Home to celebrities, Los Angeles also has all the luxury brands found on Rodeo Drive as well as the funky boutiques of Melrose Avenue and the trunk shows and thrift shops throughout the city.
Chicago: Not a Hair or Accessory Out of Place
Despite the wind and those snowy winters, Chicago’s residents, who are mostly in their mid-30s, still prove that they know how to dress in something more than five layers and a parka. Besides being home to style icons and a wide range of local boutiques that personify Midwest chic, Chicago is offers all the global brands, including everything from luxury designers to streetwear and urban designs.
Miami: South Beach Sizzle
More than swimsuits and sandals, Miami’s residents, who average in their mid-30s, represent one of the style capitals in the U.S. with major influences coming from Latin America and other international fashion sites. Thanks to shows like “Miami Vice” and the growing popularity of the area among celebrities, Miami has become a fashion capital. With Ocean Drive’s luxury brands and boutiques as well as a “be-seen” club and beach scene and the polo set, Miami personifies cool, relaxed dress even in the midst of those humid, hot summers.
San Francisco: Relaxed and Hip
Known as the home to denim thanks to Levi Strauss and the Gap starting in this city, San Francisco personifies the casual and relaxed look without coming off as sloppy. If anything, this hip city’s carefree vibe, despite its residents’ average age of 40, illustrates that homegrown designers like Department 17, Shotwell, Unionmade, General Store, Brooks Brothers, Bebe, and more have captured the essence of looking good while still taking it easy.
For men and women alike, these best-dressed cities show you how to look good no matter the occasion or time of year. Look to the best places to live for everything from the best of high fashion to how to turn retro, secondhand pieces into a stylish ensemble.
