What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Richmond, Virginia

Got a winter trip planned to Richmond, VA? Richmond 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 66°F (that's 19°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 Richmond, 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 Richmond in winter—whether you're visiting Maymont, strolling through the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, touring the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or checking out the Hollywood Cemetery.

🔗 What should women wear in Richmond, Virginia in winter?

Richmond 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, jeans, sneakers or loafers, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Richmond has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

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

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Denim jacket

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

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 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 Richmond, 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.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Richmond. 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.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Richmond in winter. 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.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 What should men wear in Richmond, Virginia in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: cardigans, jeans or khakis, lightweight comfortable shoes, collared shirts, and stylish hat. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Richmond in comfort and style.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Richmond in winter. 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.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

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 Richmond? 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:

🔗 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.

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

🔗 Stylish hat

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

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Richmond, Virginia 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 Richmond has to offer!