What to Wear in New Orleans: A Local’s Guide to Dressing for the City’s Climate and Culture
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, you might be wondering what to wear. The city is known for its hot and humid weather, so it’s important to choose clothing that is comfortable and breathable.
As someone who has visited New Orleans multiple times, I have some tips on what to wear to stay cool and stylish during your trip.
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the weather. New Orleans can get very hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon are great choices.
Loose-fitting clothing will also help keep you cool. Keep in mind that it can also rain frequently in New Orleans, so bringing a lightweight raincoat or umbrella is a good idea.
When it comes to footwear, comfortable shoes are a must. New Orleans is a city that is best explored on foot, so you’ll want to make sure you have shoes that can handle a lot of walking.
Sandals, sneakers, and flats are all good choices. It’s also worth noting that the streets in New Orleans can be uneven and cobblestoned, so high heels might not be the best option.
Climate and Weather
As someone who has visited New Orleans several times, I can attest to the fact that the city has a humid subtropical climate.
This means that summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild with occasional cold snaps.
Summer temperatures can reach the mid-90s, with high humidity levels making it feel even hotter. If you’re visiting in the summer, it’s important to wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.
Loose-fitting cotton or linen tops and shorts or skirts are great options. Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Winter temperatures in New Orleans can dip into the 30s, but it’s rare for it to stay that cold for long. Most winter days are mild, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s.
You’ll want to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, but you won’t need heavy winter gear.
It’s also important to note that New Orleans is prone to rain, especially during the summer months. Be sure to pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella to stay dry if you get caught in a downpour.
Cultural Considerations
When it comes to what to wear in New Orleans, it’s important to consider the city’s unique cultural background.
The city is known for its vibrant music scene, colorful festivals, and rich history, which can all influence the way locals and visitors dress.
One important cultural consideration is the city’s love for jazz music. If you’re planning to attend a jazz club or festival, consider dressing up a bit.
Men can opt for a collared shirt and dress shoes, while women can wear a dress or nice blouse and skirt.
However, it’s important to note that casual attire is allowed everywhere in the city, including jazz clubs and Bourbon Street.
Another cultural consideration is the city’s love for Mardi Gras. If you’re visiting during this time, you’ll want to pack colorful clothing and accessories, as well as comfortable shoes for all the walking and dancing.
It’s also worth noting that Mardi Gras is a time for costumes, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your outfit!
Finally, it’s important to be respectful of the city’s history and traditions. New Orleans has a rich African American heritage, and visitors should be mindful of cultural appropriation when it comes to clothing and accessories.
Avoid wearing items that may be seen as disrespectful or offensive, such as Native American headdresses or African tribal prints.
Daytime Attire
When exploring New Orleans during the day, it’s important to dress for the warm and humid weather. Light and breathable fabrics are a must, such as cotton or linen.
Shorts, skirts, and dresses are popular choices for both men and women.
Comfortable shoes are also a must, as there is a lot of walking involved when exploring the city. Sneakers or flats are great options, and sandals can work as well.
However, keep in mind that the streets can be dirty and uneven, so closed-toe shoes may be a better choice.
It’s also important to dress appropriately for any specific activities or tours that you may have planned. For example, if you plan on taking a swamp tour, wearing shorts and a tank top or t-shirt may be more comfortable.
On the other hand, if you plan on taking a walking tour of the city, you may want to opt for more comfortable walking shoes.
Overall, when it comes to daytime attire in New Orleans, comfort and practicality are key.
Dress for the weather and for any specific activities you have planned, and you’ll be ready to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Nighttime Attire
When it comes to nighttime attire in New Orleans, it’s all about embracing the city’s vibrant and eclectic energy.
Whether you’re hitting up Bourbon Street or exploring one of the city’s many jazz clubs, there are a few key things to keep in mind when planning your outfit. First and foremost, comfort is key.
You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and dancing, so make sure you’re wearing shoes that you can move in. Opt for comfortable flats or low heels, and avoid anything too strappy or uncomfortable.
In terms of clothing, the vibe on Bourbon Street is high energy, fun, and casual. Most people are dressed down, while showing some skin. I recommend wearing something light and comfortable like a tank dress or romper.
If you want to add a bit of sparkle to your outfit, consider accessorizing with statement jewelry or a fun clutch. That being said, if you’re heading to a jazz club or a more upscale venue, you may want to dress up a bit more.
A little black dress or a nice blouse and pants combo are both great options. Just be sure to keep comfort in mind, as you’ll still be doing a fair amount of walking and standing.
Overall, the key to nighttime attire in New Orleans is to have fun with it. Embrace the city’s unique energy and wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Footwear Options
When it comes to footwear, comfort is key in New Orleans. With all the walking and exploring you’ll be doing, you’ll want to make sure your feet are happy. Here are some footwear options to consider:
Sneakers
A good pair of sneakers can take you far in New Orleans. They’re comfortable, versatile, and can be worn with just about anything.
Plus, they’ll keep your feet happy when you’re walking around the French Quarter or exploring the Garden District.
Look for sneakers with good support and cushioning, and opt for breathable materials like mesh or canvas to keep your feet cool in the heat.
Sandals
For those hot summer days, sandals are a great option. They’ll keep your feet cool and allow them to breathe.
Opt for sandals with good arch support and a sturdy sole to keep your feet comfortable when you’re walking on uneven surfaces. Avoid flip-flops, as they don’t provide enough support and can be slippery on wet surfaces.
Boots
If you’re visiting New Orleans in the cooler months, a pair of boots can be a great option. They’ll keep your feet warm and dry, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Look for boots with good traction to prevent slipping on wet surfaces, and opt for waterproof materials like leather or Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry in case of rain.
Comfortable Flats
If you’re looking for something dressier than sneakers but still want to keep your feet comfortable, a pair of comfortable flats can be a great option.
Look for flats with good arch support and a cushioned sole to keep your feet happy when you’re walking around the city. Opt for breathable materials like leather or canvas to keep your feet cool in the heat.
Overall, when it comes to footwear in New Orleans, comfort is key. Make sure to choose shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and appropriate for the weather and activities you have planned.
Accessories to Bring
When traveling to New Orleans, bringing the right accessories can enhance your experience and make your trip more enjoyable. Here are some accessories that I recommend bringing with you:
Sunglasses
New Orleans is known for its sunny weather, so a good pair of sunglasses is a must. Not only will they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, but they’ll also add a stylish touch to your outfit.
Hats
A hat is another accessory that will come in handy in New Orleans. Whether you’re exploring the French Quarter or taking a swamp tour, a hat will provide shade and protect your face from the sun.
Plus, it’s a great way to add some personality to your outfit.
Umbrella
While New Orleans is known for its sunny weather, it’s also known for its occasional rain showers. Bringing an umbrella will ensure that you stay dry and comfortable during your trip.
Money Belt
New Orleans is a popular tourist destination, which unfortunately means that pickpocketing can be a concern. A money belt is a great way to keep your valuables safe and secure while exploring the city.
Camera
New Orleans is a beautiful city with plenty of photo opportunities. Bringing a camera will allow you to capture memories of your trip that you can look back on for years to come.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially when exploring a city like New Orleans. Bringing a reusable water bottle will not only help you stay hydrated, but it’s also an eco-friendly option that will help reduce waste.
In conclusion, these are just a few accessories that I recommend bringing with you when traveling to New Orleans. They’ll help make your trip more enjoyable and ensure that you’re prepared for whatever the city throws your way.
What Not to Wear in New Orleans
As someone who has spent a lot of time in New Orleans, I can confidently say that there are certain things you should avoid wearing in this city.
Here are some tips on what not to wear:
- Avoid wearing high heels or uncomfortable shoes. The streets in New Orleans are notoriously uneven, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Stick to comfortable shoes that you can wear for hours.
- Don’t wear anything too revealing. While New Orleans is a fun and lively city, it’s still important to be respectful of the culture and traditions here. Avoid anything too short, too tight, or too low-cut.
- Leave your expensive jewelry at home. While New Orleans is generally a safe city, there are still areas where you should exercise caution. Don’t wear anything that could make you a target for theft.
- Avoid wearing all black. While black is a classic and chic color, it’s not always the best choice in New Orleans. The city is known for its colorful and vibrant culture, so try to incorporate some bright colors into your outfits.
Overall, when it comes to what not to wear in New Orleans, it’s all about being comfortable, respectful, and mindful of the culture and traditions of the city.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to dress appropriately for any occasion in the Big Easy.
