What to wear in England

What to Wear in United Kingdom

 

Top style tips for the United Kingdom

  • Like most of Western Europe there is no dress code as such and really anything is acceptable.
  • Black is always a popular color, and smart casual clothes will help you fit right in.
  • In the UK jeans are worn by everyone – young and old alike – and unless you are visiting more upscale restaurants they are perfectly acceptable to wear everywhere.
  • But a few up-market London venues and country hotels do still have a ‘smart' dress code which is enforced (no jeans or sneakers, jacket and tie for gents) so check if you plan to dine in these places.
  • Unless you are staying at a hotel with a swimming pool, or intend visiting a spa, or the beach in high summer – leave your swimsuit at home as you're unlikely to need it.
  • If you are hitting the beaches, regular swimwear / a bikini is fine for swimming on the hottest days (July and August), but in spring and Fall wetsuits are popular (short or full length) to keep out the chill. From October to March it will be just too cold to swim, except for the very hardy!
  • When out in the countryside you may be some distance from shelter if the weather turns bad; at all times of year go prepared with a sweater, waterproof, snacks and drinking water. Take a mobile phone in case of emergency too.
  • If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend the SCOTTeVEST range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Shoes to pack for the United Kingdom

  • The best way to see many of the sites in the UK is to walk, and good quality lightweight but smart walking shoes are recommended. For comfort and style we recommend Hotter shoes, and they have something to suit all occasions.
  • Save your high heels for the evenings.

Pack for the weather

  • The weather can be changeable in the UK, from day to day and even hour to hour – it's not unknown to experience all four seasons in one day. Pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella whatever time of year you visit, even in the summer.
  • In the cooler months of November, December, January, February and March a warm coat, gloves, warm hat and a scarf are essential – and layer up.
  • Dressing in layers will help you cope with the temperature changes all year round.
  • We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

 

Clothing tips for women

  • Jeans are always popular and will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe. Wear them with cool layers such as camisoles and t-shirts for the summer, or warmer ones e.g. a long-sleeved shirt and sweater in the winter.
  • A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
  • A pashmina is also a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too.
  • The leather RedDog BagPod is a really versatile and stylish bag that can be used from day to evening. Wear it over the shoulder or convert it to a clutch, or use it to keep your belongings and travel documents tidy and easy to find.

Clothing tips for men

  • There are no specific things to bring to your attention, check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.

Regions of the United Kingdom

  • If walking along the coastal paths or in the hills or mountains, make sure you have appropriate footwear with good ankle support, as the terrain can be steep and uneven underfoot. Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are fine in dry periods, but opt for boots with good grips in wet or muddy conditions. Don't try challenging walks in casual shoes, and certainly don't wear flip-flops – you'll be at risk of injury if you do.
  • What to Wear in London
  • What to Wear in Scotland
  • What to Wear in Sussex
  • What to Wear in The Cotswolds

Other things to pack

  • To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V).
  • Also take a comfy shoulder bag or day pack to carry your sightseeing essentials and keep your hands free.
  • If you tend to buy bottled water, consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
  • Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home!
  • Save on packing and buy your toiletries there. You'll find all the major brands and they are inexpensive.

Community photos of the UK