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St. Petersburg, Florida in Winter: What to Wear

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Got a winter trip planned to St. Petersburg, FL? St. Petersburg can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is warm and dry, with temperatures averaging around 72°F (that's 22°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 St. Petersburg, 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 St. Petersburg in winter—whether you're relaxing on the beaches, taking a walk or bike ride down Bayshore Boulevard, visiting the Dali Museum, or exploring the St. Petersburg Pier.

What to wear for a winter trip to St. Petersburg, Florida

What should women wear in St. Petersburg, Florida in winter?

St. Petersburg in winter is generally warm, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, flip flops, linen trousers, sunglasses, and beach coverup. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything St. Petersburg has to offer.

Stylish hat

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

These options are both stylish and comfy:

Flip flops

It's no secret that flip flops are one of the most popular types of footwear for visiting St. Petersburg in winter. They're easy to slip on and off, they're usually pretty cheap, and they go with just about everything. But flip flops are also surprisingly versatile—they can be dressed up or down, and they're perfect for everything from a day at the beach to a night out on the town.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

Linen trousers

Linen trousers might just be the perfect staple for a warm-weather vacation. You already know they are made from a light, breathable fabric. Plus, they can be paired with a variety of tops to create both casual and dressy looks. When choosing linen trousers, it's important to look for a pair that fits well and complements your overall look. This will help you feel your best when exploring St. Petersburg (and taking all those vacation photos).

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

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 St. Petersburg trip is both enjoyable and sun-safe.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

Beach coverup

A beach coverup is a must-have for any trip to St. Petersburg. There are several reasons to pack a coverup, including sun protection and modesty. First things first, a beach coverup can help keep you from getting sunburned, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. Coverups can also be useful for hiding swimsuits that may be too revealing or that you simply don't feel comfortable wearing in public. When choosing a beach coverup, it's important to pick one that is comfortable and that fits well. You'll also want to consider the material—something light and airy is ideal for hot days.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

What should men wear in St. Petersburg, Florida in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts, cargo shorts, lightweight comfortable shoes, and jeans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to St. Petersburg in comfort and style.

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 St. Petersburg trip is both enjoyable and sun-safe.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

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 St. Petersburg, 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.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

Cargo shorts

Cargo shorts are comfortable, have plenty of pockets for storing all your essentials, and they can be easily dressed up or down. They are also extremely versatile—wear them on the beach, on a hike, or even out to dinner. Having ample storage for your passport, your phone, and your wallet is very useful in St. Petersburg. Also, pick a pair that comes in a neutral color. This will ensure they can be easily paired with any top or sneaker.

I found these which would all work great:

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 St. Petersburg? 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.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

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 St. Petersburg, 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 of my favorites:

FAQs

Is winter a good time to go to St. Petersburg, FL?

St. Petersburg has fairly warm winters so it can be a great time to visit—especially if you're looking to escape the harsh winter elsewhere. Just remember that other people will likely have the same idea, so you may not be the only visitor.

How do people typically dress in St. Petersburg, FL in winter?

People in St. Petersburg dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many winter outfits you will see in St. Petersburg typically include shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and sundresses.

What should you NOT wear in St. Petersburg, FL in winter?

There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in St. Petersburg. 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 St. Petersburg, Florida 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 St. Petersburg has to offer!