What to Wear in Cape Town in Winter (Ultimate Guide)

Got a winter trip planned to Cape Town, South Africa? Cape Town can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 63°F (that's 17°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Cape Town, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Cape Town in winter—whether you're exploring the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, visiting Boulders Beach to see the penguins, hiking in Table Mountain National Park, or going on a wine tour.

🔗 What should women wear in Cape Town in winter?

Cape Town in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, denim jacket, sweaters, lightweight comfortable shoes, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Cape Town has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Cape Town trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Cape Town, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Cape Town. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Cape Town, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Cape Town. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Cape Town? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Cape Town, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 What should men wear in Cape Town in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: button-down shirts or polos, stylish hat, light jacket, chinos, and loafers or dress shoes. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Cape Town in comfort and style.

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Cape Town trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Cape Town, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Cape Town, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Chinos

Chinos are the perfect travel companion. They're comfortable, they don't wrinkle, and they go with everything. Plus, they can be dressed up or down, making them the perfect versatile piece for Cape Town. You'll thank yourself when you have something reliable to wear on those long days of exploring. When choosing chinos, try to pick a neutral color like khaki or olive green. These colors will go with everything so you'll only need a pair or two.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Cape Town will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Cape Town has to offer!