What to Wear in London

General Style Tips

• London is really cosmopolitan and everything goes.
• However, if you plan on visiting smarter restaurants and bars you will find a dress code of sorts; smart casual will be fine.
• There are a few really high class hotels where the dress codes are super smart. For example, if you're taking afternoon tea at the Ritz men must wear a jacket and tie; jeans, sneakers and sportswear are not allowed. Other smart hotels also enforce rules for dining areas, so check if you plan to visit somewhere special.
• Our advice if you are planning to explore on foot or use the Tube etc is to wear comfortable flat shoes or boots, and pack your nice shoes in your handbag to switch when you arrive at your destination – this is what the smart girls do.
• We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light. And for comfort you really can't beat Hotter shoes, which look great too.
• There's lots to see, and if you don't fancy all the walking – perhaps you're short on time or the weather is inclement – then a ‘hop-on hop-off' bus tour can be a good way of getting round the major sights.
• The London Underground ‘Tube' is a great way to get around too – but it can be uncomfortably warm, especially at busy times. Make sure you're wearing layers that you can shed; it's stifling hot in summer whilst in winter it will feel much warmer than outside.
• If you plan to see a West End theater show, dress is varied. Some people like to dress up – perhaps a jacket and pants for men and smart pants or dress for women. But there's no official dress code and other people wear jeans. It is a nice occasion though, so if you do like to make an effort then you won't be out of place. Tickets for UK shows and other attractions can be booked in advance.
• Also see What to Wear in United Kingdom