The Subway Audit: Outfit Inspiration

Welcome to our new weekly series where I’ll take you on a tour of the awesome fashion I spot on the NYC subways. Each week, I’ll pick out a standout look to break down. My goal? To dish out some killer outfit inspo straight from the streets of the city that never sleeps! I’ll be chatting about style, mixing fabrics, layering, and all those cool color combos that catch my eye. The subway is like a treasure trove of fashion, and I can’t wait to share it all with you!

Quick heads up: I’ll do my best to find the exact clothes and accessories featured, but sometimes it’s like playing detective, especially with branded stuff. Don’t worry though, I’ll find the closest matches online and throw in some budget-friendly options too. Let’s dive into our first look!

Jump straight to references: wool coat, camel slouchy boots, light pink bag, colorful scarf.


Winter Vibes in Technicolor

Picture this: amidst the chaos of the morning commute, I spotted a real fashion queen. In a sea of black and gray, she stood out like a beacon of style. This blonde bombshell rocked a bright pink wool coat, paired with caramel boots and a cute light pink crossbody bag. To top the outfit, she wore a beautiful wool (or silk) scarf, splashed with shades of pink, orange, and blue.

    I’ve always admired folks who break the rules and rock their own unique style. It’s these moments of fashion that really get me pumped. So, let’s break down this awesome look, shall we?

    Quick overview of the references of the look:

    Alright, let’s keep it real here: we’re totally digging the vibe of this look. But let’s talk about those price tags, shall we? Not very accessible.

    So, as your friendly reference deal hunter and all-around visual detective, I’ve scoured the interwebs for some more wallet-friendly alternatives. Yep, you heard me right—same look, way different price tag. Intrigued? Let’s dive in!

    Below, you’ll find the closest matches I could find to recreate this stunning ensemble:

    Options for the electric fucsia coat

    Sam Edelman’s Double Breasted Coat Pink ($200)

    I love the texture on this coat. It look comfy and has a more form-fitting style.

    Composition: 100% Polyester.

    Link to product

    REDESYN’s Open Front Belted Overcoat ($78.33)

    We love the price tag in this option. The only caveat here is that this coat is better for warmer winter days, due to its material composition. Layer with warm sweater and it can be a great option.

    Composition: 100% Polyester.

    Link to product

    Cole Haan’s Luxe Wool Oversized Coat (on sale now for $139.97)

    I was surprised to see that Cole Haan offered such a similar option for us.

    Composition: Shell – 59% Wool 41% Polyester; Lining – 100% Polyester.

    Link to product

    Hobbs London’s Carine Notch Collar Coat (on sale now for $390)

    Beautiful option with no belt. It offers a more oversized look.

    Composition: 67% wool/33% polyamide nylon; lining: 100% polyester.

    Link to product


    Options for the stylish camel slouchy boots

    Staud’s Western Wally Boot Tan Suede ($495)

    Western inspired curved topline boots. The style features the classic Wally blade heel and pointed toe. 

    Composition: Upper – 100% Goat Leather; Sole – 75% Cow Leather – 25% ABS.

    Heel Height: 55mm / 2.1″, Shaft: 18″, Calf: 15.5″

    Link to product

    Anthropologie’s Silent D Ivy Boots ($270)

    These boots aim to add an elegant, fresh edge to classic silhouettes.

    Composition: cow suede upper, leather insole, rubber sole, rubber and leather-stacked heel, side zip

    Heel Height: 3″

    Link to product

    Boden’s Heeled Stretch Knee High Boots (on sale now for $94.99)

    These beautiful faux suede boots offer a sleek look to the legs. I love how minimal and sophisticated they look.

    Composition: upper 100% recycled textile, insock 100% leather, sole 100% man-made.

    Heel Height: 6CM/2″

    Link to product


    Options for the romantic, adorable light pick bag

    Songmont’s Mini Song Bag ($239)

    I love this bag. It is adorably cute and perfect in size for a nice evening stroll, brunch or dinner. A symbol of refined sophistication. Made with full-grain leather.

    Link to product

    Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Top Handle Satchel (on sale now for $129.90)

    Quince shining bright again! This purse is crafted with an ultra-soft 100% Italian sheep leather with a stylish quilted design.

    Link to product

    Boden’s Heeled Stretch Knee High Boots (on sale now for $94.99)

    These beautiful faux suede boots offer a sleek look to the legs. I love how minimal and sophisticated they look.

    Composition: upper 100% recycled textile, insock 100% leather, sole 100% man-made.

    Heel Height: 6CM/2″

    Link to product

    Staud’s Ollie Bag Cherry Blossom ($250)

    I love the way the purse’s strap is asymmetrical and uses both gold and silver hard-wear. Beautifully organic shapes gives a nice touch to the look.

    Link to product


    Options for the beautiful scarf

    Sol Alpaca’s Triumph Scarf C001 ($119)

    According to the brand, this piece has been inspired by the colours, forms, and symbols of the Inca culture. The beautiful pattern and hues of colors really pop.

    Link to product

    Oliver Bonas’ Orange & Pink Check Heavyweight Scarf ($58)

    I love the mix of colors here. The twisted tassel edges give it an edgy look and the brushed finish just makes me want to wrap myself around it. So comfy!

    Link to product

    Weavers of Ireland’s Giant Merino Scarf – Orange & Pink ($59.95)

    All right, we just found THE scarf, make with extra fine merino wool. Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture and still maintain its ability to insulate, keeping you dry, warm and cosy. I love that its extra fine: it makes it versatile enough for you to wear all year long.

    Link to product

    Rita White’s Pink Funky Fly Design, 100% Silk Twill, Long Rectangular Scarf ($195)

    Beautiful option for Summer and Spring. It can also be used as a bag twilly.

    Link to product

    And we are done. I had so much fun writing this article to you. Let me know your thoughts and if you would like to have more of these series in the blog. Thank you for being here. I appreciate you!

    Xoxo, the Reference Genie.

    I’m M.

    Welcome to Reference Genie, a creative corner of the internet dedicated to all things fashion, self-care, decor and lifestyle. Get ready to be inspired!

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