One bag, October weather, and shoes that survive cobblestones and a late dinner.

Three days in New York means walking eight to eleven miles without planning to. Everything in the bag has to be comfortable on the eleventh mile and acceptable at a 9:15pm table.

Build around the boots

Pick the footwear first and let the rest follow. One pair, broken in, dark, and fine on cobblestones — then two trousers, three tops, a knit, and a coat with real pockets.

Leave room for one thing you buy while you’re there.

Where to fill the gap

• Atelier Sixteen