What to Wear for a Fall Trip to New Orleans, Louisiana

Got a fall trip planned to New Orleans, LA? New Orleans can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is warm and a little humid with muggy evenings, with temperatures averaging around 80°F (that's 27°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 New Orleans, 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 New Orleans in fall—whether you're walking around the French Quarter, taking a plantation tour, visiting the National WWII Museum, or riding a streetcar.

🔗 What should women wear in New Orleans, Louisiana in fall?

New Orleans 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: jeans, maxi dresses, long-sleeved shirts, shorts, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything New Orleans has to offer.

🔗 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 New Orleans, 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.

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

🔗 Maxi dresses

A maxi dress is the perfect New Orleans staple. It's comfortable, flattering, and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you're exploring or just relaxing, a maxi dress will keep you cool and stylish all day long. It's also a great way to cover up for modesty if you need to (simply add a long-sleeved cardigan over the top). And packing a maxi dress is a breeze—simply roll it up and tuck it into your suitcase. When choosing a maxi dress, look for one made from lightweight fabric such as linen or cotton. Avoid bold prints and opt for simple colors that can be easily accessorized.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for New Orleans, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Shorts

Shorts are one of the most versatile and essential items in any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for dealing with hot weather. Plus, they're easy to pack and don't take up much space in your suitcase. Just make sure to pack a few different colors and styles so you'll have something to wear for different occasions.

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

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to New Orleans. 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:

🔗 What should men wear in New Orleans, Louisiana in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sandals, tank tops, lightweight pants, walking shoes, and shirts or tunics. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to New Orleans in comfort and style.

🔗 Sandals

While many people think of sandals as nothing more than summertime shoes, they can actually be a versatile and practical option for year-round travel to warmer destinations. For one thing, they're comfortable and easy to wear, which is ideal for exploring New Orleans. They also offer good ventilation, which is important in hot weather. Just bear in mind that sandals should provide good support for your feet and ankles, which you need to help to prevent injuries.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Tank tops

Tank tops are just such a versatile item of clothing. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for hot weather. When packing tank tops for a trip to New Orleans, it's important to choose ones that are comfortable and breathable. You'll also want to make sure they're easy to care for, so you can wash them easily while on the road. Plus it's a good idea to pack a few different colors and styles, so you have options to suit any occasion. With a few key tank tops in your suitcase, you'll be prepared for anything on your New Orleans adventure.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to New Orleans 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.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Walking shoes

Unless you're spending your entire vacation lounging by the pool, you're going to want a good pair of walking shoes. Walking is a great way to see New Orleans, and it's also a good way to get some exercise while you're there. But not just any old sneakers will do. You want a shoe that is comfortable and well-cushioned, with good arch support.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Shirts or tunics

Shirts or tunics are one of the most versatile and easy-to-wear items you can pack for New Orleans. They can be dressed up or down, and they work well in a variety of settings, from the beach to the city. When choosing shirts or tunics for your trip, look for ones that are made from lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton. These fabrics will help keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather.

I found these which would all work great:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in New Orleans, Louisiana 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 New Orleans has to offer!