Rainy day outfits don't typically win any awards for their sartorial grace. That's because when there's rain in the forecast, most of us will do whatever it takes to stay protected from the elements — even if that means sacrificing our style. However, that doesn't necessarily have to be the case. While certaincelebrities never dress for the weather, we're big believers in carefully considering whether your OOTD is rainy-day appropriate to save on comfort (read: damp jeans are the worst) and from ruining your footwear (note: do not get leather boots wet). Fortunately, with the right tips and tricks, it's possible to find a rainy-day outfit that's not only practical but stylish, too.
A quality raincoat and rain boots may be what you reach for when the clouds start to roll in, but they're not your only options. To expand your outfit potential, keep fabric and color in mind. For instance, going with water-resistant materials (rather than super absorbent ones) and natural fibers will keep you dry and happy. Also, darker colors are usually preferred over lighter shades since they wear better if they happen to get wet. Still, don't be afraid to try a bright, bold color, which can be mood-boosting on those gray, dreary days.
Keep scrolling for our favorite rainy day outfits, plus tips on how to style them.
Keep It Classic
Yourfavorite jeansare a cool and casual choice for a rainy day. Style them with your go-to ankle boots, but if you're feeling daring, try a denim shirt instead of a tee.
Find New Ways to Layer
If the temperature drops, wear a thin, non-bulky hoodie underneath your maxi dress. Then, you can complete the look with a pair of sneakers for something unexpected and fun.
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Don't Be Afraid to Mix It Up
Typically, when we think about shorts, we picture them styled with sneakers or sandals. However,combat bootsare also a cute alternative and will protect your feet should you step in any puddles.
Try Color Blocking
A gloomy day calls for bright and, more importantly, easy pieces. Grab the most vibrant stuff in your closet and experiment withcolor combos. A neutral pair of shoes will provide some balance.
Wear a Maxi Dress
A pair of boots and a long jacket will make the staple maxi dress work for not-too-hot, not-too-cold days. Throw on someminimalist jewelry, too, for added pizzazz.
Break Out Your Sweats
You can turn the world's coziest pair of pants into something elevated with the help of a structured button-down, a blazer, and zip-up boots. Try swapping out your sweats for leggings, parachute pants, or thesoft pantsof your choosing.
Think Outside the Box
If bare legs aren't an option, embrace the return of the early '00s and style a dress or long tunic over cropped pants. Alternatively, you can wear tights or leggings if they're more your speed.
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Remember Your Rain Boots
Invest in a sleek, short, black pair of rain boots that can pass as regular booties if the sun comes out midday. Coordinate with black trousers, a white button-down, and an overcoat for an office-ready ensemble.
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Give Your Outfit a Casual Twist
Not feeling boots? Go with a pair of sneakers instead. You won't need to worry about them getting messed up, and they'll give your outfit a laid-back vibe.
Add a Hat
Be it a bucket option, a cap, or a beret, a hat will add flair to your outfit and protect your hair in style. Not a hat person or worried about hat hair? Consider aheadscarfinstead.
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Reach for Loose Pants
You might regret wearing anything formfitting and constricting, especially if you plan to take it easy all day. A baggy pair ofcargo pantswill not only ensure you're on-trend, but they'll also look great with a simple tank top and cardigan. Plus, they'll dry much faster than jeans, should you get wet.
Put on a Blazer
Ablazeris a quick trick that will take any outfit to the next level, adding warmth while ensuring you look sharp. If you feel like your 'fit is missing a little something, cinch your waist with the help of a belt.
Try Matchy-Matchy
If you tend to feel unmotivated and lazy on rainy days, it's worth adding a matching set to your closet. With that addition, your outfit is already put together for you (minus shoes), and you'll have less stress while getting ready in the morning.
Keep It Simple
When in doubt, reach for a short black dress and trusty black boots. It's an easy choice that you can then amp up with accessories such as tights, a scarf, andlayered necklaces.
Be Transparent
The best rainy day outfit will come down to your personal style preferences. A transparent raincoat can pull double duty as a lighweight added layer and protection from heavy winds and inclement weather.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert in fashion and style, I can provide you with valuable insights and tips on creating stylish rainy-day outfits. I have a deep understanding of different outfit combinations and the importance of considering fabric, color, and practicality in rainy weather. Let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article and explore how you can create fashionable and weather-appropriate looks.
Water-Resistant Materials and Natural Fibers
When it comes to rainy-day outfits, it's important to choose the right fabrics. Opt for water-resistant materials that repel water, such as polyester, nylon, or treated cotton. These fabrics will help keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day. Natural fibers like wool or cashmere can also be a good choice as they provide warmth even when wet. Darker colors are generally preferred over lighter shades since they are less likely to show water stains. However, don't be afraid to experiment with bright, bold colors to add a pop of vibrancy to your outfit on gloomy days .
Classic Jeans and Ankle Boots
A classic choice for a rainy day is your favorite pair of jeans. They are cool, casual, and versatile. Style them with ankle boots for a chic and practical look. If you're feeling daring, try swapping out a regular tee for a denim shirt to add a touch of uniqueness to your outfit.
Layering with a Hoodie and Maxi Dress
When the temperature drops on a rainy day, layering becomes essential. Wear a thin, non-bulky hoodie underneath a maxi dress for a stylish and unexpected combination. Complete the look with a pair of sneakers for a fun and comfortable ensemble.
Shorts with Combat Boots
Shorts are not just for sunny days. On a rainy day, you can pair them with combat boots for a cute and edgy alternative. Combat boots not only add a stylish touch but also provide protection for your feet in case of puddles.
Color Blocking for a Mood-Boosting Look
Bright and easy pieces can uplift your mood on gray, dreary days. Experiment with color blocking by combining vibrant pieces from your wardrobe. To balance the look, opt for neutral-colored shoes.
Maxi Dress with Boots and Minimalist Jewelry
A maxi dress can be a versatile option for not-too-hot, not-too-cold rainy days. Pair it with boots and a long jacket for a stylish and weather-appropriate outfit. Add some minimalist jewelry to enhance the overall look.
Elevate Your Sweats with Structured Pieces
Turn your cozy pair of sweats into a more elevated outfit by pairing them with a structured button-down shirt, a blazer, and zip-up boots. This combination adds sophistication and style to your casual attire. You can also swap out sweats for leggings or soft pants for a comfortable yet polished look.
Dress or Tunic Over Cropped Pants
If bare legs are not an option, embrace the dress-over-pants trend. Style a dress or long tunic over cropped pants for a fashionable and weather-appropriate outfit. Alternatively, you can wear tights or leggings for added warmth and comfort.
Sleek Rain Boots for an Office-Ready Ensemble
Invest in a sleek, short, black pair of rain boots that can pass as regular booties. Coordinate them with black trousers, a white button-down shirt, and an overcoat for a sophisticated and office-ready ensemble.
Laid-Back Vibes with Sneakers
If you're not in the mood for boots, go for a pair of sneakers instead. Sneakers are comfortable, versatile, and perfect for a laid-back vibe. You won't need to worry about them getting wet, and they can easily complement various outfit styles.
Add Flair with a Hat or Scarf
Accessories can elevate your rainy-day outfit. Consider adding a hat, such as a bucket hat, cap, or beret, to add flair and protect your hair from the rain. If you're not a hat person or concerned about hat hair, opt for a stylish headscarf instead.
Opt for Loose and Comfortable Pants
On rainy days, it's best to choose loose and comfortable pants over form-fitting ones. Baggy cargo pants are not only on-trend but also dry faster than jeans if they get wet. Pair them with a simple tank top and a cardigan for a relaxed yet stylish look.
Elevate Your Outfit with a Blazer
A blazer is a versatile piece that can instantly elevate any outfit. It adds warmth and a touch of sophistication. If you feel like your outfit is missing something, cinch your waist with a belt to create a more defined silhouette .
Matching Sets for Effortless Style
If you tend to feel unmotivated on rainy days, consider adding a matching set to your wardrobe. With a matching set, your outfit is already put together for you, reducing stress and making it easier to get ready in the morning. Just add your favorite shoes, and you're good to go .
Keep It Simple with a Black Dress and Boots
When in doubt, a short black dress paired with trusty black boots is always a stylish and easy choice. You can amp up the look with accessories such as tights, a scarf, and layered necklaces to add personal flair.
Transparent Raincoat for Layering and Protection
A transparent raincoat is not only a lightweight added layer but also a stylish way to protect yourself from heavy winds and inclement weather. It adds a modern touch to your outfit while keeping you dry. Layer it over your favorite clothes for a fashionable rainy-day look.
Remember, these tips and outfit ideas are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment, mix and match, and add your personal style to create unique rainy-day outfits that make you feel confident and stylish.