Do you want to know what to wear in Seattle in Summer? Then you have come to the right place. No matter whether you are visiting Seattle in June, July or August we have the best packing list and outfit inspiration for you.
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Weather in Seattle in Summer (June, July, August)
Summer is absolutely my favorite time to visit Seattle. Seattle Summers are classified as June, July and August and although peak season is a great choice for visiting if you want to experience less of the infamous Seattle rain.
In Summer the average high temperatures are around 22C / 71.6F so even though it is summer you will still want some layers with you. And although Seattle is known for its rain Summer only has around 4 days of rain in each month.
Note: this guide is intended as a Seattle City packing however if you are visiting as the start or end point of an Alaska Cruise or National Park road trip you may want to also check out these posts.
What to Wear to Seattle in Summer for Women
When putting together you wardrobe for Seattle in Summer I recommend trying to pack a capsule wardrobe to reduce space and potentially even travel with carry-on alone.
For more information on methods for packing light be sure to check out our explanations of the 54321 packing method and the sudoku packing method here.
Pants
Depending on where you are traveling to in Seattle and what activities you are doing once you get there will depend on what type of trousers you require. As Seattle has pretty mild and pleasant summers we recommend packing a mix of linen trousers, jeans and shorts as it will cover all weather.
Skirts and Dresses
As the city is warm in summer we recommend packing a good supply of summer dresses though you may want to layer this on cooler days and in evenings.
Blouse
A loose blouse works for the cooler evenings or days and can pair well with trousers for evenings.
T Shirt
T-Shirts are a great base for Seattle at any time of year but particularly in Summer. T Shirts that are plain or are lightly patterned are easier to make work as part of a capsule wardrobe.
Jacket and top layers
Although Summer, Seattle is pretty mild and evenings can feel pretty chilly so you will want some top layers. Personally I like to pack a mix of sweaters, cardigans and a hoodie but you may also want a pashmina and jacket.
Swimwear (optional)
Swimwear is an optional for your Seattle summer packing list depending on where you are going and the accommodation you are staying in.
You really only need to pack swimwear if you are staying in a hotel with a swimming pool or you plan on hitting a beach but be warned the water is pretty chilly.
PJs
Lightweight are recommended for summer.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying. Sneaker socks are a good way of reducing sweat and odour in your shoe.
What to Wear in Seattle in Summer for Men
For men visiting Seattle in Summer, I actually recommend actually keeping things similar to the women’s packing list.
The items we recommend including on your mens Seattle Summer packing list are:
Trousers
Having a couple of pairs of linen trousers with you is a good idea for Seattle in summer.
If you are sticking to the cities then I would recommend having a mix of chinos and linen trousers with you as these work for both day and night.
Shorts
Although Chinos and linens are great shorts are a necessary addition for hot days in summer.
We recommend bringing more tailored and smarter shorts as opposed to cargo shorts however as these can make you look like a tourist.
T Shirts and Shirts
During the day t shirts are great. For men short sleeve tees are probably going to be the most useful for you.
You should also pack at least one button down shirt with you for Seattle in Summer for going out to dinner.
However if shirts aren’t your thing then be sure to pack a smart polo.
Swimwear
Only needed if your accommodation has a pool or you are heading to a beach.
PJs
Lightweight ones are recommended.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying.
Best Shoes for Seattle in Summer
Sneakers
Sneakers are my go to shoe for Seattle in the summer. They are great for days when you are doing lots of walking in the city.
For summer and for capsule wardrobes I like to stick to a pair of white sneakers as they are the most versatile. My favorite brand at the moment are Addidas Cloud Foam.
Sandals
Sandals are perfect for summer in Seattle. Just be sure you are comfortable walking long distances in them.
And if you want to have something with height then we recommend a wedge instead of a stiletto heel. And be sure to leave the flip flops at home as these are not good for walking long distances in.
Hiking Boots
If your Seattle itinerary sees you heading outside of the city towards Mount Rainier National Park for instance you may want to pack some lightweight summer hiking boots with you too!
What Else to Pack for Seattle in Summer
- Sun screen
- Aloe Vera
- Sunglasses –
- Camera
- Crossbody bag – unfortunately any tourist site attracts pickpockets and Seattle is no different. Protect your belongings by having a crossbody bag with lots of zips.
- Travel Adaptor – if you are visiting from Europe or further afield.
- Power Pack / Battery recharger
How to dress in Seattle in Summer for Special Events
There are no special events in Seattle in Summer that will affect your Packing List drastically.
FAQS About Seattle in June, July or August
Do I need swimwear for Seattle in Summer?
If you are staying in a hotel with a pool or plan on heading to a beach you may want swimwear with you.
Can you wear shorts in Seattle in Summer?
You are fine to wear shorts in most places in Seattle in summer. For women I recommend packing a mix of shorts, trousers and skirts so you are covered for all weather eventualities.
Can you wear jeans in Seattle?
Even in summer you will see lots of jeans on the streets in Seattle even in Summer as the weather is quite mild. And you will see a variety of styles from ripped, skinny, boyfriend cut to baggy. Therefore wear the style of jeans you feel most comfortable in.
Have you been to Seattle in Summer? What did you wear? We would love to hear in the comments.