Milan in Fall: What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to Milan, Italy? Milan can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 65°F (that's 18°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 Milan, 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 Milan in fall—whether you're visiting the Duomo, seeing the Last Supper at the Santa Maria delle Grazie, strolling through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or people watching at Piazza del Duomo.

🔗 What should women wear in Milan in fall?

Milan in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: denim jacket, comfortable flats or loafers, cardigans, stylish hat, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Milan has to offer.

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Milan. 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 Milan, 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.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Milan 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.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Milan 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 would be perfect:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Milan 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 Milan, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Milan. 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 are some of my favorites:

🔗 What should men wear in Milan in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: cardigans, button-down shirts or polos, jeans, light jacket, and lightweight comfortable shoes. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Milan in comfort and style.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Milan 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.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 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.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 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 Milan, 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 options I'd recommend:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Milan, 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.

Any of these should work:

🔗 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 Milan? 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.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Milan 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 Milan has to offer!