Got a fall trip planned to London, United Kingdom? London can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 58°F (that's 14°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 London, 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 London in fall—whether you're visiting Buckingham Palace, riding the London Eye, admiring Big Ben, or walking across Tower Bridge.
What should women wear in London, England in fall?
London in fall is generally cool, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: comfortable flats or loafers, jeans, cardigans, light jacket, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything London has to offer. And don't forget, The City is a fashion-forward destination, so don't be afraid to show off your style—and pack something classy if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.
Comfortable flats or loafers
Packing the right shoes for London can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.
Here are a few of my top picks:
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 London, 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 some of my favorites:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to London in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
These are some of my favorites:
Light jacket
A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for London, 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.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
Pashmina
A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to London. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
What should men wear in London, England in fall?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: lightweight comfortable shoes, jeans, light jacket, sweaters, and button-down shirts or polos. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to London in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—City of London has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.
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 London? 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.
Any of these should work:
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 London, 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.
This is the kind of thing I mean:
Light jacket
A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for London, 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 options are both stylish and comfy:
Sweaters
Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in London. 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.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
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:
FAQs
Is fall a good time to go to London, United Kingdom?
Fall is a great time to go to London. The weather is cool and pleasant, and there are still plenty of things to do and see. There are also fewer tourists, prices are not quite as high as in the summer peak season, and you can often find better deals on accommodation and airfares.
How do people typically dress in London, United Kingdom in fall?
People in London dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many fall outfits you will see in London typically include jackets, sweaters, and sneakers.
What should you NOT wear in London, United Kingdom in fall?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in London. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in London, England will help make your fall 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 London has to offer!