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What to wear in Seattle?

Comfortable Clothes for Each Month & the Fashion Style in Seattle.

see 5 Day Clothes Forecast: Seattle

Clothes for the Seasons & each Month

We provide an overview of seasonal clothes and information on appropriate clothes for each month (Monthly Recommended Clothes).

Seasonal Overview

Winter (December to February)
Seattle's winters demand layers. A waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, and waterproof boots are essential for staying dry during frequent drizzles. Don't forget a sturdy umbrella to navigate the occasional rain shower. A stylish beanie and gloves will keep you cozy while exploring the city's winter wonderland.

Spring (March to May)
As the city comes to life with blossoms and greenery, pack a mix of light layers. A waterproof jacket or a stylish trench coat paired with jeans and comfortable sneakers is ideal. Add a versatile scarf to stay cozy on breezy days, and sunglasses for those occasional sunny interludes.

Summer (June to August)
Seattle's summers are a pleasant surprise. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, such as shorts, T-shirts, and sundresses. Don't forget a light jacket for cooler evenings. Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen are essential for protection against the sun, as Seattleites take full advantage of the extended daylight.

Fall (September to November)
As fall colors adorn the city, bring layers suitable for mild temperatures. A cozy sweater, jeans, and a waterproof jacket are recommended. Stylish ankle boots are both fashionable and practical for navigating wet streets. A knit hat and gloves will add the finishing touches to your fall ensemble.

Seattle Style
Seattleites are known for their casual and laid-back style. Embrace comfortable clothing like jeans, flannel shirts, and sneakers. It's common to see locals donning outdoor gear, reflecting the city's love for outdoor activities.

Monthly Recommended Clothes

The following are the recommended clothes for daytime and nighttime based on the average high/low temperatures for each month.

Jan - Mar
Apr - Jun
Jul - Sep
Oct - Dec

Recommended Clothes in Seattle

month	Clothes
Jan	Daytime: A coat, gloves and a warm hat. Nighttime: A down jacket, gloves, warm hat and so on.
Feb	Daytime: A jacket or coat. Gloves and warm hat may be necessary. Nighttime: A coat or down jacket, gloves, a warm hat and so on.
Mar	Daytime: A jacket or coat, you will need light winter clothes. Nighttime: A coat, gloves and a warm hat.
Apr	Daytime: A light jacket, sweater, or light winter clothes (jacket or coat). Nighttime: A coat, gloves and a warm hat.
May	Daytime: A long-sleeved shirt, and a light jacket or sweater. Nighttime: A jacket or coat. Gloves and warm hat may be necessary.
Jun	Daytime: A long-sleeved shirt, light jacket or sweater, but sometimes a short-sleeved shirt is good. Nighttime: A light jacket, sweater, or light winter clothes (jacket or coat).
Jul	Daytime: A short-sleeved shirt, sometimes a long-sleeved shirt. Nighttime: A long-sleeved shirt, and a light jacket or sweater.
Aug	Daytime: A short-sleeved shirt, sometimes a long-sleeved shirt. Nighttime: A long-sleeved shirt, and a light jacket or sweater.
Sep	Daytime: A long-sleeved shirt, light jacket or sweater, but sometimes a short-sleeved shirt is good. Nighttime: A light jacket, sweater, or light winter clothes (jacket or coat).
Oct	Daytime: A light jacket, sweater, or light winter clothes (jacket or coat). Nighttime: A jacket or coat. Gloves and warm hat may be necessary.
Nov	Daytime: A jacket or coat. Gloves and warm hat may be necessary. Nighttime: A coat, gloves and a warm hat.
Dec	Daytime: A coat, gloves and a warm hat. Nighttime: A coat or down jacket, gloves, a warm hat and so on.

Average temperature

Low : Average low temperature, High : Average high temperature

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More Information

SEATTLE

Expect a few surprises when it comes to Seattle weather. The city is known for experiencing all four seasons in one day! The day may start out warm and sunny and out-of-the-blue, it's pouring rain. Of course, if you don't mind this sort of thing, then you are in a weather paradise. Using the climate as an excuse to consistently expand your wardrobe will be smooth sailing and you won't have to sacrifice just because the weather is slightly unpredictable.

Apart from the peak summer season, Seattle is pleasant during springtime. The beautiful cherry trees are a sight to behold. Especially the stunning yoshino cherry trees located on the University of Washington campus known as the 'quad'. Regardless of the season, the city has plenty to do, which means you have many opportunities to make use of your wardrobe whether it's casual, elegant, youngish, voguish, or whatever. It's been said that the only way to deal with Seattle weather is to dress in layers. For example, in summer or even spring, layered clothing might include a hoodie and t-shirt, or a light sweater and shirt with a nice scarf. With layering, items can be easily peeled off if the weather suddenly changes.

The hottest months are July and August with an average high of 75°F. The coldest months are December and January with an average low of 36°F. July has the most sun with approximately 10 hours of sunshine a day. December is the wettest month. In fact, the temperatures in Seattle remain spring-like until early July. From then until September, the weather is great for outdoor activities like exploring the city's waterfront, taking a ride on the ferry, or chilling-out at a Seattle Mariners game.

Is Seattle Really the Rainiest City in America?

Seattle gets a bad rap when it comes to rain. Some say it's only a drizzle, others say the days are gloomier than the inside of a dark cave, others say the city receives more rain than most cities in the United States! Yet, Seattle is 44th overall for average rainfall per year (36.2 inches) to be exact. In addition, during winter snow (Seattle has very little in winter) is replaced by rain. So what's going on?

Well, it seems not much. The only thing you can do is gear-up. Rumor has it that Seattle residents stay away from umbrellas like the plague and if seen carrying one, well, you will stick out like a sore thumb. However, rain gear is advised. Rain jackets are Seattleites (name used for Seattle residents) way of conquering the dreaded wet days that so many moan about. Plus, the natives believe that a raincoat is more practical than carrying an umbrella. By the way, if you find yourself in need of quality rain gear check out the REI retail chain in the city, it's known for carrying a broad range of outdoor gear and footwear.

If you like the Grunge look, you know the whole ripped jeans and top off the shoulder look popularized by the grunge music genre and sub-culture during the mid-80s, you will feel right at home in Seattle. Music groups like Pearl Jam and artists like Kurt Cobain were big influences. Luckily, the rain impasse doesn't interfere with the entertainment, concerts, and parties offered around the city.

What to Wear in Seattle

Seattle is a casual town. Let's face it, when people wear cargo shorts to a wedding that's pretty casual! Sweat shirts or hoodies, jeans, scarves for accessorizing an outfit, outdoorsy type clothing is the Emerald City's identifying attire. In addition, the abundance of universities and colleges along with companies that encourage business casual dress means that you can dress in Seattle on the cheap.

Sunny days are rare, but make sure that your closet is full of summer gear to take advantage of the outdoors whenever the sun makes an appearance. T-shirts, shorts, dresses, etc., preferably constructed of natural fibers, will keep you nice and comfy. A decent pair of comfortable shoes like sandals, flip-flops, or even sneakers will come in handy.

Believe it or not, people in Seattle are a health and environmentally conscious bunch. Organic food is popular along with organic fibers like hemp. If you are the eco-friendly type, you will feel right at home wearing an all cotton t-shirt with the words 'The Earth Has Rights Too'.

Overall, Seattle is a metropolis filled with diversity and a down-to-earth populace. Wear what makes you feel good, you'll fit right in. Oh, and don't forget to purchase a pair of cool sunglasses to complete your look!