What to Wear in Washington, DC in Fall: A Detailed Guide

Got a fall trip planned to Washington, DC? Washington DC 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 68°F (that's 20°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 Washington DC, 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 Washington DC in fall—whether you're visiting the National Mall, touring the Capitol building, exploring the Smithsonian museums, or visiting Arlington National Cemetery.

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

Washington DC 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: jeans, cocktail dresses, cardigans, long-sleeved shirts, and sneakers or loafers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Washington DC has to offer. And don't forget, Washington D.C. is a fashion-forward destination, so don't be afraid to show off your style—and pack something classy if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.

🔗 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 Washington DC, 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 treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Cocktail dresses

You might be wondering why you would need a cocktail dress in Washington DC, but trust me, they can be incredibly useful. First of all, they're great for impromptu nights out. If you're exploring and stumble upon a cool bar or restaurant, it's nice to have something dressier than jeans and a t-shirt to change into. Cocktail dresses are also great for more formal occasions, like fancy dinners or shows. And finally, they're just really fun to wear! There's nothing like throwing on a pretty dress and feeling like you're a princess. When choosing cocktail dresses, go for versatile styles that can be dressed up or down. A little black dress is always a good choice, or you could opt for a colorful version if that's more your style. And don't forget to pack a few accessories to complete the look!

These would be perfect:

🔗 Cardigans

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

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

🔗 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 Washington DC, 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.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Washington DC. 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 a few of my top picks:

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

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: jeans, sneakers or loafers, button-down shirts or polos, light jacket, and sweaters. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Washington DC in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—Washington D.C. has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.

🔗 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 Washington DC, 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.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Washington DC. 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.

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.

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

🔗 Light jacket

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

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Washington DC. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These are some of my favorites:

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