Business Casual
Navy Trench and Shorts
A navy trench coat over khaki bermuda shorts and a blue linen blouse works between seasons on a mild rainy day. Black pointed-toe heels sharpen what could easily be too casual.
What to Wear in Seattle
Wednesday, March 18
55°F / 51°FDrizzle82% rain15 mph wind
/
What to wear
Based on 55°F and drizzle
top / Long-Sleeve Top
fitted long-sleeve
lightweight layer for mild temps
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
Umbrella
Seattle's weather is characterized by persistent moisture from October through May, a dramatically dry and warm summer, and a layered, independent fashion culture that has influenced the world. The rainy season is real: over 150 days of measurable precipitation per year, dominated by grey skies and drizzle rather than heavy downpours. The Pacific Northwest moisture is omnipresent — waterproof shoes and a quality rain jacket (never an umbrella, which marks you as a tourist) are daily essentials for seven months. Winters are mild — January averages near 47°F — and snow is rare enough that the city shuts down when it arrives, often spectacularly. But summers are the revelation: July and August are warm (upper 70s), consistently sunny, and dry — some of the most beautiful summer weather in North America. The city's fashion culture combines Pacific Northwest outdoor sensibility (Gorpcore before it was called that) with a creative, music-informed aesthetic that resists coastal fashion trends while quietly generating its own. Layers, quality rain gear, and a comfort with wearing technical fabrics in non-technical settings define the Seattle wardrobe.
Curated Looks
Casual
Olive Anorak Trousers
An olive anorak handles mild rain without abandoning the polish of wide-leg navy trousers underneath. The crossbody stays tucked and close.
Chic
Cream Puffer Wide-Leg
A cream oversized puffer over a navy striped cardigan and wide-leg ivory linen trousers handles mild rain with a considered mix of textures. Black ballet flats are the restrained finish.
Cozy
Parka Cable Knit Mules
A black longline parka over a cable knit sweater in mild rain keeps warmth without overdressing. Black mule heels under leggings are an unexpected and intentional detail.
Cute
Blush Jacket Knit Skirt
A blush cropped jacket over a grey cardigan and black sweater mini skirt handles mild rain with charm. A black bucket bag and ankle boots keep the proportions balanced.
Formal
Grey Coat Wide-Leg
A grey longline coat over an ivory blouse and black wide-leg trousers handles mild rain without losing formal intent. Black Chelsea boots and a mini bag keep it focused.
Sporty
Cargo Rain Jacket
A black rain jacket over an oversized graphic tee and olive cargo trousers handles mild rain practically. White lace-up booties finish the look with enough contrast to lift the palette.
Don't forget:
UmbrellaScarf
Plan Ahead by Month
See typical weather and outfit ideas for Seattle in any month of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like in Seattle year-round?+
Seattle has four seasons with meaningful variation. Summers reach highs around 78°F, while winters average around 47°F with snow possible. Seattle's weather is characterized by persistent moisture from October through May, a dramatically dry and warm summer, and a layered, independent fashion culture that has influenced the world.
What to wear in Seattle in summer?+
Seattle summers average highs near 78°F. Comfortable warm-weather clothing in breathable fabrics works well. Plan for the transition between outdoor heat and heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces.
What to wear in Seattle in winter?+
Seattle winters average highs around 47°F. A solid winter coat, warm layers, and boots with waterproofing for snow and ice handle most winter days comfortably. Snow is possible, so waterproof footwear is advisable.
What should I pack for a trip to Seattle?+
For Seattle, the key is matching the season: summer visits call for lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Winter travel benefits from a solid jacket, layering pieces, and comfortable boots. Year-round, comfortable walking footwear is essential, and a compact umbrella or packable rain jacket is smart insurance in this frequently rainy city.