What to Wear in Seattle: 15 Surprisingly Versatile Wardrobe Essentials
Looking for how to dress in Seattle while balancing utility and style? This is your complete guide for what to wear in Seattle.
Dressing for the Pacific Northwest can be tricky. You want to look good, but also be prepared for rain at (almost) any moment.
Soggy socks? No thank you.
Having spent nearly 25 years here, I am sharing my very best tried and tested wardrobe essentials. Whether you are planning a trip to Washington State or recently moved here, you need to know about these!
In this post, you will learn what to wear in Seattle– from head to toe.
If you’re adventuring anywhere in western Washington, these will work for you too.
This way, you will be more prepared to explore the beauty of the Evergreen State. Bring on rainy days. We’re ready for you!
This post is all about what to wear in Seattle.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information. Thanks for your support, friends!
The Basics of What to Wear in Seattle
When you think of the Pacific Northwest, it’s hard not to think of the great outdoors. Moody scenes encroaching fog. Or, the hustle and bustle of people in downtown Seattle. Boots splashing through puddles.
As someone who goes for daily walks, I root my style in practicality.
Let’s dive into the wardrobe staples to add to your Seattle packing list. You’ll reach for them day after day- often throughout the whole year.
Checklist for how to dress in Seattle
- Outerwear: Puffer Jackets, Rain Jackets, Fleece Jackets
- Mid Layers: Flannels, Shackets, Button-Down Shirts, Sweaters
- Base Layers: Breathable Shirt & Long Sleeve Tops
- Pants: Denim, Leggings, Joggers
- Waterproof Shoes: Blundstone Boots, Allbirds Shoes
- Backpacks
- Hats: Wool Hats, Beanies
- Cold Weather Accessories: Gloves, Mittens, Blanket Scarves
Below, we will go over each in detail and I will share my recommendations.
Color Palettes of Seattle Outfits
A quick note on colors:
If you want to be highly visible, whether for photography purposes or safety reasons, then knowing what colors to wear is key.
Because of our many moody days, you may want to wear bold colors.
From personal experience, I’ve learned that reds and yellows pop the best.
Although I love earthy colors, they can appear washed out against the abundant green scenery here. Evergreen trees, I’m talking about you.
Or if you want to stick to neutrals, then I recommend white. This will contrast better than blacks, grays, and browns.
Best Outerwear for Pacific Northwest
When deciding on jackets, it’s most important to consider:
1) Weather Conditions – Is the jacket waterproof, water resistant, or wind resistant?
2) Quality – Will this jacket last many years? Is it an investment or will I need to replace it in a year or two?
I’ve gathered the top picks for jackets that meet the above.
3 types of must-have jackets
Puffer Jackets
On most winter and fall days, these are what I reach for.
They’ll keep you cozy, warm, and comfortable on cloudy or slightly drizzly days.
Pro Tip: Try a long length puffer / parka jacket. Trust me, they make such a difference! Imagine being snuggled in a sleeping bag.
While I played it safe with black puffers for many years, I now like to opt for brighter colors! After all, life is short – wear the colors.
Rain Jackets
I’d hate to count how many rain jackets I’ve been through. Trust me, it’s worthwhile to invest in a high quality rain jacket. This way, you will avoid spending more money in the long-run.
Outdoor Research is based out of Seattle, and their rain gear is top-of-the-line. If you have a dog (like me) who will need walks rain or shine, check out their rain pants too.
Fleece Pullovers
Wear these solo in the spring or layered under a vest or puffer in cooler seasons.
Personally, I love these for cozying up by a campfire. Plus, I get compliments almost every time I wear one!
Tops to Wear in the Pacific Northwest
Believe it or not, I wear the same handful of tees ALL year.
My secret? Opt for breathable materials like hemp, merino wool, or linen. This way, I can wear them on sunny days or as a base layer on cooler days.
Once I find a top that I love, I will pick it up in multiple colors.
Tees
Now more than ever, I look for tees that double up as athletic & casual wear. That’s why Vuori tees are my holy grail.
I’m likely wearing one as you read this!
Want more Pacific Northwest style inspo? Come say hi over on Instagram!
Shirts
To dress up a tee or add a light layer, I often toss on an oversized button down shirt. Flannels and shackets (cross between a shirt and jacket) are my go to.
Sweaters
It doesn’t get better than wearing Free People sweaters.
They are the softest, stylish, perfectly oversized sweaters I’ve found.
If you like a more fitted look, then size down.
Most of the time, I layer a tee underneath.
Everyday Pants for Washington State
Jeans
When you want to look good but keep it casual, try comfortable denim.
For just the right balance between structured and stretchy, wide leg styles are a dream!!
Leggings & Joggers
For those days when you want to be as comfy as possible, opt for leggings!
Whether I’m hiking or working from home, 9 out of 10 times I wear the full length Lululemon Align Leggings 28.
Vuori joggers are a favorite too! Both are buttery soft.
Last but not least, sometimes the rain just won’t let up.. so rain pants become a girl’s best friend on fall and winter hikes.
Best Waterproof Shoes for Seattle
Besides a rain jacket, the number one wardrobe staple you need is waterproof shoes.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to wear tall rubber rain boots. Although, Hunter boots are popular here!
Waterproof Boots
On a daily basis, I reach for my Blundstones Women’s 550 Chelsea Boots. After seeing them on more and more people, I had to try them myself.
Besides their rugged style, the waterproof design is a lifesaver.
Also, they work well on short hikes.
Pair them with wool socks.
For reference, I’m usually a size 7.5 and went with an Australian size 5. I have plenty of space to wear wool socks.
Note: The most common compliant I hear about this boot is the ankle opening. It took me 2-3 wears to break them in. Just wear wool socks (you can even double up) and you should be fine!
Waterproof Sneakers
Are you more of a sneaker person?
These sustainable sneakers are a hit in Seattle! Thoughtfully made with natural materials like wool and free fibers, there’s an Allbirds style for everyone.
After trying on different styles at the University Village Allbirds store, I took home a pair of Allbirds Wool Mizzles. They’re the high top style. And you guessed it, they are waterproof and warm.
You can see my full Allbirds Wool Mizzles Review here.
Bestie Tip: Have you tried sneakers that double as hiking shoes? The Danner and Hoka options linked above are super comfy for walks and they are waterproof!
Bags to Carry Around Washington State
While talking about what to wear in Seattle, we can’t forget to mention bags. Whether you are commuting, traveling, or walking around campus, having the right of bag will help you stay comfortable and organized.
So, I’m sharing the best bags to use for day trips around Seattle.
Backpacks
These backpacks have plenty of space for photography essentials, clothing layers, and snacks. Plus, they work well for hikes too!
If you’re planning on doing much walking, I highly recommend getting a waterproof backpack cover.
Stylish Hats to Complete Your Seattle Outfits
Because of their practicality, hats are the perfect way to level-up your outfits.
Wool Hats
Nothing says “free spirit” quite like wool wide-brimmed hats. They provide sun protection while also looking amazing in photos. And hey, they don’t look bad hanging on a wall either.
Beanies
Cold Weather Accessories to Wear for PNW Fashion
Add accessories to stay warm while up in the mountains or during winter in the city.
I got these touch-screen compatible gloves this year, and use them everyday while walking my dog!
Gloves, Mittens, Blanket Scarves, & More
This post was all about what to wear in Seattle. Of course, feel free to use this as a guide for all of western Washington too!
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