When visiting Denver, it’s essential to dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, and choose clothes suitable for the weather. Denver is known for its stunning mountains, lively arts scene, and a wide range of outdoor activities, and the weather can vary greatly throughout the year. Whether you’re hiking in the Rockies, exploring the city center, or enjoying a local event, dressing appropriately will help you stay comfortable and make the most of your visit.
From my trips to Denver, I’ve learned that layering with adaptable pieces, selecting practical outerwear, and wearing stylish yet functional accessories can make a big difference. Here’s a guide to help you choose what to wear in Denver, so you’re prepared for any adventure the city has to offer.
What to Wear in Denver: A Month-Wise Guide from January to December
Dressing appropriately for the city’s varying weather throughout the year will help you stay comfortable and enjoy your visit to the fullest. Here’s a comprehensive month-by-month guide on what to wear in Denver.
January
January in Denver is cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Layering with warm, insulating outerwear helps you stay warm and protected from the harsh winter conditions.
- Heavy coats or down jackets
- Thermal tops and sweaters
- Warm pants or jeans
- Waterproof boots with good traction
February
February continues to be cold and snowy in Denver. Opt for waterproof and insulating layers to stay comfortable during the persistently cold temperatures.
- Heavy coats or parkas
- Long-sleeve shirts or thermal tops
- Jeans or warm trousers
- Waterproof shoes or boots
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with slightly warmer but still chilly weather in Denver. Choose breathable fabrics and light layers to stay comfortable as the weather begins to warm up.
- Medium-weight jackets or trench coats
- Long-sleeve shirts or blouses
- Jeans or light pants
- Waterproof walking shoes
April
April has mild temperatures and occasional rain showers in Denver. Carry an umbrella and wear waterproof outerwear to stay dry during rain showers.
- Light rain jackets or waterproof coats
- Light sweaters or cardigans
- Jeans or skirts
- Waterproof shoes or boots
May
May is warmer and perfect for outdoor activities in Denver. Choose breathable fabrics and comfortable footwear to stay cool and dry.
- Light waterproof jackets or cardigans
- T-shirts or blouses
- Jeans or light pants
- Comfortable waterproof shoes
June
June ushers in the summer with warmer temperatures and occasional rain in Denver. Opt for light, breathable fabrics and carry a light rain jacket for unexpected showers.
- Lightweight jackets or raincoats
- Tank tops or short-sleeve shirts
- Shorts or skirts
- Comfortable walking shoes
July
July is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, with less frequent rain in Denver. Wear light, breathable fabrics and stay hydrated during warmer days.
- Lightweight dresses or rompers
- T-shirts or tank tops
- Shorts or skirts
- Sandals or comfortable shoes
August
August remains warm with occasional rain showers in Denver. Choose light, airy clothing and carry a small umbrella or rain jacket for occasional rain showers.
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing
- T-shirts or tank tops
- Shorts or skirts
- Comfortable sandals or walking shoes
September
September sees a gradual transition to fall with cooler temperatures in Denver. Layering helps you adapt to the warm days and cooler evenings.
- Light sweaters or cardigans for cooler evenings
- T-shirts or blouses
- Lightweight pants or shorts
- Comfortable shoes
October
October has mild and often rainy weather, ideal for outdoor activities in Denver. Choose light layers that you can easily add or remove as needed.
- Waterproof jackets or sweaters
- Long-sleeve shirts or blouses
- Jeans or casual pants
- Waterproof shoes or boots
November
November is cooler and rainier, with temperatures dropping as winter approaches in Denver. Layering with medium-weight outerwear helps you stay warm as the weather cools.
- Medium-weight jackets or coats
- Sweaters or long-sleeve shirts
- Warm pants or jeans
- Waterproof footwear
December
December is cold and often snowy, with a festive atmosphere in Denver. Add festive touches to your outfits with seasonal colors and patterns to enjoy the holiday spirit.
- Warm jackets or coats
- Layered tops (sweaters, long-sleeve shirts)
- Warm pants or jeans
- Comfortable waterproof walking shoes
Month-Wise Guide Table Guide for What to Wear in Denver
Month | Essential Clothing | Features |
---|---|---|
January | Heavy coats, thermal tops, jeans, waterproof boots | Layering, warmth, waterproof |
February | Heavy coats, long-sleeve shirts, jeans, waterproof shoes | Insulating, waterproof, warm |
March | Medium-weight jackets, long-sleeve shirts, jeans, walking shoes | Breathable, light layers, waterproof |
April | Light rain jackets, sweaters, jeans, waterproof shoes | Lightweight, waterproof, versatile |
May | Light waterproof jackets, t-shirts, jeans, waterproof shoes | Breathable, comfortable, waterproof |
June | Lightweight jackets, tank tops, shorts, walking shoes | Light, breathable, rain-ready |
July | Lightweight dresses, t-shirts, shorts, sandals | Light, breathable, comfortable |
August | Moisture-wicking clothing, t-shirts, shorts, sandals | Light, airy, rain-prepared |
September | Light sweaters, t-shirts, pants, comfortable shoes | Layering, fall transition |
October | Waterproof jackets, long-sleeve shirts, jeans, waterproof shoes | Light layers, waterproof, casual |
November | Medium-weight jackets, sweaters, jeans, waterproof shoes | Warmth, layering, waterproof |
December | Warm jackets, layered tops, warm pants, waterproof shoes | Festive, comfortable, waterproof |
Few MoreTips for Staying Comfortable and Stylish in Denver
- Layer Your Clothing: Wear multiple layers to easily adjust to varying temperatures and stay warm.
- Waterproof Essentials: Select outerwear and boots that are waterproof to stay dry during snowy and wet conditions.
- Comfortable Shoes: Opt for footwear with good grip and comfort for walking in winter conditions.
- Warm Accessories: Enhance your outfit with scarves, gloves, hats, and earmuffs to add both warmth and style.
What to Wear in Denver in Winter?
When winter arrives in Denver, it’s essential to wear warm layers, insulated outerwear, and weather-resistant accessories. With temperatures often dropping below freezing and frequent snowfall, dressing appropriately will ensure you stay comfortable while enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Category | Essential Items | Features |
---|---|---|
Tops | Thermal tops, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, cardigans | Warm, insulating, layered |
Bottoms | Thermal leggings, jeans, wool pants | Insulating, comfortable, durable |
Footwear | Insulated boots, warm socks | Waterproof, insulated, good traction |
Outerwear | Heavy coats, down jackets, parkas | Warm, weather-resistant, functional |
Accessories | Scarves, gloves, hats | Warmth, style, practical |
1. Tops
- Thermal Tops: Base layers like thermal shirts help retain body heat on colder days.
- Sweaters: Choose wool or fleece sweaters for added warmth.
- Long-Sleeve Shirts: Comfortable and easy to layer under sweaters or jackets.
- Cardigans: A thick cardigan adds an extra layer of insulation.
Features to Look For
- Warm, insulating fabrics
- Comfortable fits
- Layering potential
2. Bottoms
- Thermal Leggings: Wear them under your pants for extra warmth.
- Jeans: Opt for thicker, warmer denim.
- Wool Pants: For a dressier look, wool pants provide both warmth and style.
Features to Look For
- Insulating materials
- Comfortable, stretchy fabrics
- Durable and versatile styles
3. Footwear
- Insulated Boots: Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction are a must.
- Warm Socks: Thick, thermal socks to keep your feet warm and dry.
Features to Look For
- Waterproof and insulated materials
- Comfortable insoles
- Good traction for icy conditions
4. Outerwear
- Heavy Coats or Down Jackets: Well-insulated coats or down jackets are crucial for staying warm.
- Parkas: Choose a parka with a hood for extra protection against wind and snow.
- Scarves, Gloves, and Hats: Essential accessories for keeping warm and protected from the cold.
Features to Look For
- Insulating, weather-resistant materials
- Comfortable fits that allow for layering
- Functional hoods and pockets
Accessories
- Scarves: Thick, wool scarves provide added warmth and protection against the wind.
- Gloves: Insulated gloves keep your hands warm and comfortable.
- Hats: Beanies or wool hats are essential for retaining body heat.
Additional Tips
- Choose accessories that provide both warmth and style.
- Reflect your personal style while ensuring practicality.
- Opt for pieces that are easy to mix and match with your outfits.
Tips for Staying Warm in Denver
- Layer Smartly: Start with a thermal base layer, add insulating layers, and finish with a windproof, waterproof outer layer.
- Choose Quality Footwear: Make sure your boots are insulated, waterproof, and have good traction.
- Accessorize Wisely: Invest in high-quality hats, gloves, and scarves to stay warm without sacrificing style.
- Stay Dry: Use waterproof outer layers to stay dry in snowy conditions.
What to Wear in Denver in Summer?
Light, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear are ideal for staying cool and comfortable in Denver during the summer. With temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to mid-90s (Fahrenheit), summer in Denver is warm and often sunny. Dressing in casual yet stylish outfits will help you enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and numerous outdoor activities.
Category | Essential Items | Features |
---|---|---|
Tops | T-shirts, tank tops, blouses, lightweight sweaters | Breathable, moisture-wicking, light colors |
Bottoms | Shorts, capri pants, skirts, jeans | Lightweight, breathable, comfortable |
Footwear | Sandals, flip-flops, lightweight sneakers, espadrilles | Breathable, comfortable, versatile |
Outerwear | Light jackets, denim jackets, light raincoats | Lightweight, breathable, versatile |
Accessories | Sun hats, sunglasses, light scarves, small umbrellas | Sun protection, stylish, practical |
1.Tops
- T-Shirts: Lightweight and breathable t-shirts are perfect for casual outings.
- Tank Tops: Ideal for staying cool, tank tops allow maximum airflow.
- Blouses: Choose lightweight, flowy blouses for a touch of style.
- Lightweight Sweaters or Cardigans: For cooler evenings, bring along a light sweater or cardigan.
Features to Look For
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
- Light colors to reflect sunlight
- Loose, comfortable fits
2. Bottoms
- Shorts: Lightweight shorts in breathable materials like cotton or linen are a summer staple.
- Capri Pants: For a bit more coverage, capri pants are a stylish and comfortable option.
- Skirts: Flowing skirts made from light fabrics are great for staying cool.
- Jeans: On cooler days, opt for well-fitted jeans in lighter washes.
Features to Look For
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- Comfortable, stretchy materials
- Versatile styles for different occasions
3. Footwear
- Sandals: Comfortable sandals are perfect for walking around and keeping your feet cool.
- Flip-Flops: Ideal for casual outings and trips to the beach.
- Lightweight Sneakers: Breathable sneakers are great for more active days.
- Espadrilles: Stylish and comfortable, espadrilles can be dressed up or down.
Features to Look For
- Breathable materials
- Comfortable insoles
- Versatility for different activities
4. Outerwear
- Light Jackets: A light jacket is perfect for cooler evenings and sudden weather changes.
- Denim Jackets: Versatile and stylish, a denim jacket can be paired with almost any outfit.
- Light Raincoats: For unexpected summer showers, a light raincoat is handy.
Features to Look For
- Lightweight, breathable materials
- Comfortable fits that allow for layering
- Versatile designs
5. Accessories
- Sun Hats: A wide-brimmed hat provides essential sun protection and adds a stylish touch.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes with a pair of stylish sunglasses. Look for UV protection and polarized lenses.
- Light Scarves: A lightweight scarf can provide sun protection and add a pop of color to your outfit.
- Small Umbrella: A compact, portable umbrella is useful for unexpected rain showers.
Additional Tips
- Choose accessories that provide practical benefits, such as sun protection.
- Reflect your personal style while embracing the relaxed summer vibe.
- Opt for pieces that are easy to mix and match with your outfits.
Tips for Staying Comfortable in Summer in Denver
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated in the heat.
- Choose Light Colors: Light colors reflect sunlight and help keep you cool.
- Opt for Loose Fits: Loose-fitting clothes allow air to circulate and keep you comfortable.
FAQs On What To Wear in Denver?
You should wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear in Denver during the summer. Opt for t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, skirts, and sandals. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Comfortable walking shoes are the best option for exploring Denver. In winter, waterproof and insulated boots are essential, while in summer, breathable sneakers or sandals work well.
In Denver’s winter, wear warm layers including thermal tops, sweaters, and a heavy coat or down jacket. Insulated boots, warm pants, and accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats are also necessary.
In winter, you need a heavy coat or down jacket, while in summer, a light jacket or raincoat is sufficient for cooler evenings or unexpected showers. For fall and spring, a medium-weight jacket or trench coat is ideal.