16 New York City-based startups that are changing the way we shop for clothes

Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

• It should come as no surprise that many up-and-coming online clothing startups are based in the fashion capital of New York City. 
• While influenced by its rich history of fashion, these 16 startups are also challenging the traditional ways we think about and shop for clothing. 
• You can learn more about each of the NYC-based startups below. Then, read up on the 11 San Francisco-based clothing startups that prove the Big Apple isn't the only place where fashion thrives. 

Depending on your level of exposure to the most populous city in the US, New York City conjures a variety of associations: a major hub for finance and media, the stage where theatre and fine dining comes to blossom (or die), or simply that one nightmarish place people cram into on New Year's Eve to see a shiny ball drop. 

New York City is all these things, but you also can't forget its place as a fashion capital. The city is every shopper's paradise, with fashionable people and stylish shops on every block. Luxury fashion brands and legacy department stores line Fifth Avenue, while quaint boutiques thrive in SoHo — but it's a new crowd of fashion disruptors that's making some of the most memorable debuts in the NYC clothing world.  

These clothing and accessories startups were founded and based in New York, where the city's influence — its cramped quarters, culture of aesthetes who are never caught in a bad outfit, and busy, fast-paced rhythm — has clearly permeated into their business models and products. 

These 16 startups, while influenced by NYC, are also challenging its fashion traditions by not overcharging for things and trading in excess for simplicity and sustainability. New York City will always be a place for fashion — the following retail startups just approach it in a different way. 

Learn more about the 16 New  York City-based clothing startups that are changing the fashion industry:

Bonobos

Shop clothing at Bonobos here: Bonobos, Nordstrom

Launched officially in 2007, menswear brand Bonobos is one of the earliest examples of the potential of direct-to-consumer selling. Beginning with pants that are neither boxy nor tight (which were sold out of the founders' cars at one point), it now sells a full array of men's clothing, from vacationwear and casual tees to black tie suits. Bonobos continues to be a hit among shoppers because of its superior fit, fun prints, and reasonable price point. 

Warby Parker

Shop glasses at Warby Parker here

New York is home to another early D2C wunderkind, Warby Parker. It makes stylish designer-quality eyeglasses and sunglasses for an affordable price, and you can try out your favorite five styles for free at home before you make your final decision. In partnership with nonprofits like VisionSpring, Warby Parker distributes a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair sold.

Rent the Runway

Rent clothing at Rent the Runway here

In a city filled with well-dressed people, it's easy to feel the pressure to stay on top of trends and never repeat an outfit. Rent the Runway gives you an infinitely rotating closet of designer clothing that you can wear for special occasions, everyday life, and anything in between, without the commitment. For consistent refreshes, it offers two different membership plans, starting at $89 per month, or you can rent out singular pieces whenever you need them.