Got a fall trip planned to Los Angeles, CA? Los Angeles can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is warm and dry, with temperatures averaging around 75°F (that's 24°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 Los Angeles, 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. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Los Angeles in fall—whether you're visiting the Hollywood Sign, taking a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, or going to Griffith Observatory.
What should women wear in Los Angeles, California in fall?
Los Angeles in fall is generally warm, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: cocktail dresses, sunglasses, sneakers or loafers, pashmina, and wide-brimmed hat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Los Angeles has to offer. And don't forget, L.A. 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.
Cocktail dresses
You might be wondering why you would need a cocktail dress in Los Angeles, but trust me, they can be incredibly useful. First of all, they're great for impromptu nights out. If you're exploring and stumble upon a cool bar or restaurant, it's nice to have something dressier than jeans and a t-shirt to change into. Cocktail dresses are also great for more formal occasions, like fancy dinners or shows. And finally, they're just really fun to wear! There's nothing like throwing on a pretty dress and feeling like you're a princess. When choosing cocktail dresses, go for versatile styles that can be dressed up or down. A little black dress is always a good choice, or you could opt for a colorful version if that's more your style. And don't forget to pack a few accessories to complete the look!
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement. Not only do they protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun, but they also help to reduce glare and improve visibility. When choosing sunglasses, it's important to pick a pair that is both stylish and functional. Look for lenses that are marked UV 400, which means they provide nearly 100% UV protection. They should also be large enough to cover your entire field of vision—and make sure that the frames are comfortable to wear. Also, be sure to pack a case to keep your sunglasses safe while you're on the go. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that your Los Angeles trip is both enjoyable and sun-safe.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Sneakers or loafers
Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Los Angeles. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.
Any of these should work:
Pashmina
A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Los Angeles. 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.
These would be perfect:
Wide-brimmed hat
A wide-brimmed hat is pretty much essential for a trip to Los Angeles in fall. The brim will help to keep the sun out of your eyes, while a floppy design will help to shield your face and neck too. When choosing a wide-brimmed hat, look for one that is made from breathable fabric, with a comfortable fit. A good hat should also have a chin strap or other means of securing it to your head, so it doesn't blow away in the wind. And finally, be sure to pack a hat that can be easily rolled up or folded so that it takes up minimal space in your suitcase.
Any of these should work:
What should men wear in Los Angeles, California in fall?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: wide-brimmed hat, lightweight pants, loafers or dress shoes, upf 50+ sun protective clothing, and collared shirts. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Los Angeles in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—L.A. has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.
Wide-brimmed hat
A wide-brimmed hat is pretty much essential for a trip to Los Angeles in fall. The brim will help to keep the sun out of your eyes, while a floppy design will help to shield your face and neck too. When choosing a wide-brimmed hat, look for one that is made from breathable fabric, with a comfortable fit. A good hat should also have a chin strap or other means of securing it to your head, so it doesn't blow away in the wind. And finally, be sure to pack a hat that can be easily rolled up or folded so that it takes up minimal space in your suitcase.
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
Lightweight pants
If you're planning a trip to Los Angeles that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.
Any of these should work:
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.
I found these which would all work great:
UPF 50+ sun protective clothing
If there was just one thing I could pack for a sunny trip away, it would be UPF 50+ sun protective clothing. Seriously, this stuff is amazing. It's essentially clothing specially designed to protect your skin from the sun, which is important because UV rays can be incredibly damaging to your skin—especially if you're going to be spending a lot of time outdoors. UPF 50+ clothing helps to block out the sun's rays, just by you wearing it! Look for items that are loose-fitting and made from breathable fabrics, and you'll also want to make sure that the clothes you choose have a light color, as this will help to keep you cool too. With UPF 50+ sun protective clothing, you can enjoy your time in the sun without having to worry about damaging your skin.
Any of these should work:
Collared shirts
A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
FAQs
Is fall a good time to go to Los Angeles, CA?
Fall is a great time to go to Los Angeles. The weather is warm 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 Los Angeles, CA in fall?
People in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles typically include shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and sundresses.
What should you NOT wear in Los Angeles, CA in fall?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles, California 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 Los Angeles has to offer!