Seattle, Washington in Fall: What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to Seattle, WA? Seattle 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 60°F (that's 16°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 Seattle, 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 Seattle in fall—whether you're visiting the Space Needle, taking a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, exploring Pike Place Market, visiting the Museum of Pop Culture, or hiking in Olympic National Park.

🔗 What should women wear in Seattle, Washington in fall?

Seattle 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: cardigans, lightweight comfortable shoes, pashmina, light jacket, and stylish hat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Seattle has to offer.

🔗 Cardigans

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

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 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 Seattle? 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.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Seattle. 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.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Light jacket

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

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

🔗 Stylish hat

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

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 What should men wear in Seattle, Washington in fall?

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

🔗 Cotton shirts

Cotton shirts are a travel must-have for a variety of reasons. They're lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for a variety of climates. They're also easy to wash by hand or in a machine, and they tend to dry quickly. Plus, they can be dressed up or down, making them versatile enough to wear for just about any occasion. Choose a style that suits your needs—whether that's a classic button-down shirt or a breezy tunic top.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Stylish hat

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

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

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Seattle 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.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 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 Seattle? 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.

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

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Seattle 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 options are both stylish and comfy:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Seattle, Washington 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 Seattle has to offer!