Clothes for the Seasons & each Month

We provide information on appropriate clothes for the seasons and clothes for each month (Monthly Recommended Clothes).

Clothes for the Seasons

Istanbul

Though Istanbul is primarily Sunni Muslim, due to its cosmopolitan flair men and women are not required to dress in Muslim garb. Not only that, there are many shopping opportunities with a choice of well-known chain stores and regional designer shops.

Dressing for the Seasons

From April to May during the spring season and October to November during the fall, there will be plenty of rain. Sometimes it gets cool and even cold during the nighttime hours but fairly comfy during the day; therefore, keep a jacket or sweater for warmth.

During summer from June to September breathable cotton attire for the day with a lightweight covering like a sweater for the evening will do. Rain won't be too severe though there may be showers along the East and the Black Sea coast. In the Southeast part of the city, prepare for scorching hot weather while remaining within the rules of dress for the area.

From December to March the winter is in full season. You will need wool clothing for warmth and adequate rain gear though there will be many days of sunshine.

What to Wear

Istanbul is pretty much like other major European cities like France and Germany, so you can relax for the most part with your attire. Dressing properly for the culture, most of the inhabitants are Muslim, should be taken into consideration; however, you won't have to alter your wardrobe too much. It's when visiting the Blue Mosque slight changes must be made like women covering their hair, upper arms, shoulders, and knees. A long skirt, long sleeved top, and a nice scarf will do. Nonetheless, you can still look fashionable! Shoes will have to be taken off, so bring a pair of socks if you plan on visiting. You need not be concerned during other times about covering up. Men must follow the same rules except for covering the head. Cover-ups are also provided for both men and women.

During the extremely hot weather average length skirts with a nice blouse of an organic breathable fabric will help to keep you cool. Comfortable shoes like flats or low-heeled wedgies will be fine. If you prefer to wear something sophisticated, a chic ensemble with a blouse and skirt or pants, or dress with an interesting print, and lovely scarf will take you through the day and into the evening. Tank tops and short tops that show the navel or midriff are not acceptable unless you're at the beach. A lightweight sweater when dining in the evening will keep you comfortable during chilly nights. Smart and casual is the best way to go for daytime and evenings.

There are exceptions where shorts and mini skirts and other clothing that leave parts of the skin exposed and that's in certain coastal upscale districts where younger people wear this type of gear. Also if you like to go clubbing during the summer, you will find patrons wearing skimpy clothes, which is the lone place where this type of attire is completely accepted. You might be able to get away with a tank top if your upper-chest is covered. Turkish men hardly ever wear tank tops outside.

In a nutshell, make sure you have clothing like a warm coat, sweater, hat, gloves and scarf for winter. Have a nice choice of lightweight gear for summer and light colors. A wide-brimmed hat to protect your face would be helpful. During spring and fall remember to layer and bring extras with you in case of unexpected weather changes. A light water resistant jacket will come in handy.

More Information

How's the Weather?

The weather in Istanbul gets hot and humid during the summer seasons with temperatures reaching up to 90+ Fahrenheit during the months of July and August. It gets cold, damp, and windy in winter from December to February with snow in January and February. Spring and fall weather includes prevailing rains and cool climate. However, during this time of year one day its hot and the next its cold. The weather fluctuates sporadically throughout the city. Throughout the year the wind is fierce so be sure to protect yourself.

For Women Only

There may be women walking around in the full-body covering (burka) but they will most likely be tourist from other Islamic countries. However, some Turkish women dress this way preferring the Ottoman tradition.

Slacks are fine for women with a nice blouse that covers the shoulders and upper-arms. Dresses and skirts, preferably below the knee with long or elbow-length sleeves are appropriate. A lightweight, long sleeved jacket with a hood attached or hoodie will work fine when entering a mosque as the hood can be used for a head covering. The majority women dress with an international flair wearing jeans, Converse style sneakers, with an attractive bag made from leather or another quality material. Sports attire like leggings will look awkward. Skirts that stop right at the knee are fine worn with comfortable flat shoes. You will want to wear comfy shoes anyway as there are many hills in the city and some streets are quite steep in certain vicinities.

What About the Men?

Turkish men of middle-age and older wear pants and a nice dress shirt no matter how hot it is. Younger men are a bit more casual with their dress during the daytime. Still, you won't see them in shorts. Bermuda shorts that come to the knee or pants are fine in more contemporary districts. Long sleeves and pants are required when visiting a mosque.

Other Things You Should Know

• Open-toed shoes are allowed for both men and women during the summer season along with sports shoes and stylish casual shoes.
• Plan to dress in smart-casual clothing (clean-cut informal attire) for nights out. For more formal places a dress or suit jacket for men would be appropriate.
• Along the seaside at resort townships you may even find some vacationers sunbathing topless on the beaches. Though nudity is illegal people are rarely reprimanded.

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