As a global hub for fashion and style, London sits at the intersection of classic tailoring and street-ready edge. But the city’s weather? That is another story. Rain can show up without warning, sunny moments can be fleeting, and temperatures often shift more than the forecast suggests. The secret to dressing well here is having a wardrobe that adapts. Think layers you can add or remove on the go, fabrics that hold up in damp conditions, and versatile pieces that work for everything from museum visits to nights out in Shoreditch.
This guide walks you through what to wear in London each month, with style suggestions from mnml’s modern menswear essentials. It helps you pack light, layer well, and be ready for anything.
Style Traveler Tip: London weather reports use Celsius, but you do not need an app to figure it out. Just double the number and add 30. It will not be exact, but it will get you close enough to decide between a hoodie and a jacket. For example, 10°C is roughly 50°F.
What to Wear in London in January (2–8°C / 36–46°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Heavyweight denim or cargo pants
- Layered hoodies and sweaters
- Waterproof jacket or parka
- Boots or waterproof sneakers
January in London is damp, gray, and cold, which makes it perfect for exploring indoor attractions. Think museum days, cozy pubs, and evenings in the West End. Layering keeps you warm on the move and gives you flexibility if you duck inside somewhere heated. If you want to stay extra warm without overpacking, choose layers in different sizes that can be mixed depending on the day. Packing a durable coat ensures you’ll stay both practical and stylish even in the chill of London winter.
What to Wear in London in February (3–9°C / 37–48°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Heavy denim or warm trousers
- Knitwear, beanies, and scarves
- Mid- to heavyweight outerwear
- Waterproof boots
February offers slightly longer days, but there is still plenty of drizzle. It is a great month for catching a Premier League match or strolling through Borough Market without summer crowds. Your outerwear clothing will work hard here, keeping you warm in the stands or dry while exploring riverside walks. A long waterproof jacket or coat is a smart pick for anyone who doesn’t want to get caught in the rain.
What to Wear in London in March (4–12°C / 39–54°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Mid-weight jeans or cargo pants
- Hoodie or sweatshirt under a bomber or denim jacket
- Waterproof outer layer
- Comfortable sneakers
March brings early signs of London spring. Flowers start popping up in parks, and the city feels more alive. Lighten up your layers but keep rain protection handy. This is a great month for walking tours through historic neighborhoods or spending afternoons at outdoor markets if you want to experience the city like a local.
What to Wear in London in April (6–15°C / 43–59°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Transitional knits or sweaters
- Relaxed trousers or jeans
- Waterproof shoes or sneakers
April is famously rainy, but also one of the most colorful months in the city. Cherry blossoms bloom, and the London Marathon brings extra energy to the streets. Comfortable walking clothes and layers make it easy to enjoy both sightseeing and spontaneous detours. A leather jacket is a timeless favorite for this month, adding edge to any outfit while staying practical. Choose sizes that let you layer without feeling bulky.
What to Wear in London in May (9–18°C / 48–64°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Hoodies or sweatshirts
- Denim jackets or overshirts
- Lightweight jeans or chinos
- Sneakers or casual boots
May feels fresh, with longer days and more sunshine. It is the start of festival season, and pub gardens start to fill. A travel capsule wardrobe built on breathable fabrics and versatile outer layers will take you from daytime exploring to evening drinks without missing a beat. If you want to keep it effortless, stick with neutral tones that mix and match easily.
What to Wear in London in June (12–21°C / 54–70°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- T-shirts and relaxed jeans
- Light overshirts or shackets
- Lightweight sneakers
- Optional rain jacket
June brings longer daylight hours, perfect for evening walks along the Thames or catching outdoor cinema screenings in summer. While it is warmer, rain showers are still possible. Lightweight streetwear jackets add style without weighing you down, making this one of the best months to experiment with lighter, stylish looks..
What to Wear in London in July (15–24°C / 59–75°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- T-shirts and relaxed shorts
- Light denim or cargo pants for evenings
- Breathable sneakers
- Sunglasses and light layers
July is London’s warmest month and a prime time for music festivals, rooftop bars, and open-air theatre. Your focus should be on breathable fabrics and casual fits that still look polished. Keep an extra layer in your bag for cooler nights.
What to Wear in London in August (15–24°C / 59–75°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Breathable cotton shirts
- Shorts and lightweight jeans
- Casual sneakers or loafers
- Light jacket for evenings
August is warm but unpredictable, with sudden rain showers. It is also when Notting Hill Carnival takes over West London. Pack versatile pieces that can handle crowds and movement. A mix of different types of shirts will give you options for layering or going lighter.
What to Wear in London in September (11–20°C / 52–68°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Hoodies or sweatshirts
- Denim jackets or light bombers
- Cargo pants or jeans
- Sneakers or boots
September brings cooler mornings and evenings but still offers warm afternoons. Open House London invites you into buildings not normally open to the public, making it a great month for exploring. Layered streetwear hoodies keep you comfortable all day.
What to Wear in London in October (8–15°C / 46–59°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Heavier layers and flannels
- Mid-weight denim
- Boots
- Warm jackets
October feels cozy, with autumn leaves in Hyde Park and Halloween events across the city. A mix of streetwear hoodies and heavier outerwear works well here, giving you flexibility as temperatures shift. Don’t forget your coat. A long, insulated style or a warm work jacket works best when paired with denim and boots.
What to Wear in London in November (5–11°C / 41–52°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Insulated jackets
- Heavy denim or wool trousers
- Hoodies and scarves
- Beanies and gloves
November is wet and chilly, ideal for exploring museums or catching early Christmas markets. Warm, water-resistant outerwear is essential for making the most of your time outside.
What to Wear in London in December (3–9°C / 37–48°F)
Clothing recommendations:
- Heavyweight outerwear
- Knits and scarves
- Gloves and hats
- Boots
December is magical with festive lights and winter markets. Plan for damp, cold weather so you can enjoy ice skating at Somerset House or a walk through Covent Garden without feeling chilled.
Essential Tips for Packing for London Year-Round
- Always carry a waterproof jacket
- Build layers that can adapt to changing weather
- Choose versatile, neutral pieces that mix and match easily
- Pack waterproof footwear for most months
When packing for London, aim to keep your luggage light. The city’s public transport is incredibly convenient, but you will often find yourself carrying bags up stairs in Tube stations or navigating narrow hotel hallways. Many older buildings, including some charming boutique hotels, do not have elevators. That means the lighter your suitcase, the easier it is to move around without feeling weighed down.
A tight, thoughtful packing list also gives you more flexibility once you arrive. By sticking to neutral tones and versatile silhouettes, you can create multiple outfits from fewer items. This is where a travel capsule wardrobe comes in handy, helping you travel with style and efficiency. Choose fabrics that resist wrinkles and dry quickly, so you can re-wear pieces throughout your trip.
Why mnml’s Modern Staples Are Perfect for London
mnml’s denim, outerwear, and tops are made to handle unpredictable conditions while keeping your look clean and modern. These are pieces you can wear across multiple seasons, pairing heavyweight jeans with a light bomber in spring or layering a hoodie under a parka in winter.
A well-planned travel wardrobe built on streetwear essentials makes it easy to stay comfortable without sacrificing style. Whether you choose relaxed denim, cropped trousers, or weather-ready jackets, mnml’s pieces help you dress for London with confidence.
