What to wear in Washington DC in summer can make or break your trip. DC summers are no joke—hot, humid, and seriously steamy. But with the right clothes, you’ll stay cool, comfortable, and ready to explore everything this incredible city has to offer.
Temperatures often soar past 90°F (32°C) in July and August (Free Tours by Foot) , and lately, it’s been hotter than ever. ( (The Washington Post) (WUSA9)
Sticky afternoons? Surprise thunderstorms? You’ll want outfits that breathe, move easily, and can handle a little sweat.
Living close to Washington DC, I’ve spent plenty of summers exploring the city and hosting visiting friends and family. Trust me—those heatwaves are no joke! I’m sharing my best tips on what to pack, what to skip, and how to stay comfortable while sightseeing.
Okay, let’s get down to the specifics. Based on the weather and the need for layers, here are the types of clothing items I recommend packing when figuring out what to wear in washington DC in summer:
Understanding DC’s Summer Climate: Hot, Humid, and Sunny ☀️
Before we dive into specific clothing items, let’s talk a little more about what makes DC summers unique. People often joke about DC being built on a swamp, and while that’s a bit of an exaggeration, the geography does contribute to the high humidity. When you combine high temperatures with that moisture in the air, it creates that “sauna-like” feeling the Capital Weather Gang warns about.(Axios) July is typically the hottest month, often averaging highs around 89°F (31.6°C), but feeling much hotter due to the humidity.(Tripadvisor) It’s not uncommon to have a stretch of days well into the 90s, and occasionally even hitting 100°F (37.8°C).(Free Tours by Foot)
So, what does this mean for your wardrobe?
- Breathability is King: Forget heavy fabrics like thick denim or polyester. You’ll want materials that let air circulate and allow sweat to evaporate. Think cotton, linen, rayon, chambray, and moisture-wicking blends.(Smiles on Arrival) I remember one trip where I thought jeans would be fine – big mistake! I switched to linen pants the next day and felt so much better.
- Light Colors are Your Friend: Dark colors absorb more sunlight and heat. Lighter colors like white, beige, pastels, and light grays will reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler.(Reddit)
- Loose Fits are Better: Tight clothing traps heat and moisture against your skin. Opt for looser-fitting tops, pants, shorts, and dresses that allow air to flow.
- Prepare for A/C Blasts: While it’s sweltering outside, museums, government buildings, restaurants, and the Metro can have fierce air conditioning. It’s wise to carry a light layer, like a thin cardigan, a light denim shirt, or even a large scarf, to throw on when you go inside.(Travel and Dish) You’ll be thankful when you go from baking outside to freezing inside!
- Sun Protection is Crucial: Expect plenty of sunshine. Pack sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen – you’ll be doing a lot of walking outdoors between monuments and museums.
Okay, armed with that knowledge, let’s get into the specific items that make deciding what to wear in Washington DC in summer a breeze!
Bottoms: Lightweight Pants, Shorts, Capris, and Skorts
You’ll be doing a lot of walking in DC. Seriously—miles and miles each day are typical as you hop between the National Mall, different Smithsonian museums, and various neighborhoods. Comfort is absolutely essential, especially for your lower half.
Lightweight Pants 👖
Even in the heat, sometimes pants are preferable, especially if you want a bit more sun protection, are visiting a site that feels slightly more formal (though most tourist spots are very casual), or just prefer them. The key is lightweight and breathable fabrics.
To help you plan what to wear in Washington DC in summer, here are some of my favorite lightweight pants that balance comfort, style, and breathability. These picks are perfect for long days of walking, sightseeing, and staying cool in the city heat.
Linen Pants
These are my personal summer saviors! Linen is incredibly breathable and tends to look effortlessly chic even when it gets a little wrinkled (which it will!). Look for wide-leg or relaxed-fit styles for maximum airflow. They’re perfect for looking put-together while staying cool.
(The owner at Broiderie Stitch even said linen is cooler than cotton—especially in humid climates, since it can absorb more water and still feel dry — Quora.)
UMIPUBO Women’s Linen Pants
If you’re looking for breathable, lightweight linen that still looks put-together, the UMIPUBO Linen Pants are a great choice. They have a relaxed, wide-leg fit perfect for beating the DC heat.
Chinos
A classic choice. Chinos made from lightweight cotton or a cotton blend are great for DC. They look polished enough for most situations but are way more comfortable than heavy trousers. (Reddit users often recommend them too!) Look for lighter colors like khaki, stone, or light blue to reflect heat.
Banana Republic All Day Pant
These lightweight chinos from Banana Republic are a stylish step up from basic khakis. They’re polished enough for nicer dinners but breathable enough for long days of sightseeing.
Travel/Hiking Pants
Many brands now make pants specifically designed for travel or light hiking, using moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics. They might not be the most high-fashion item, but their comfort is unbeatable for long days of walking.
Skechers Women’s Go Walk Pant
The Skechers Women’s Go Walk Pant is a fantastic example—designed for movement and comfort with stretchy, breathable fabric perfect for pounding the pavement.
Lightweight Denim/Chambray
If you really love denim, look for options labeled as lightweight or made from chambray (which looks like denim but is much lighter). Wide-leg styles are trending and offer more breathability.
EVALESS Women’s Denim Pants
The EVALESS Women’s Wide Leg Denim Pants and the Sidefeel Women’s Wide Leg Jeans are great choices for hot weather. The wider cut helps prevent that sticky, uncomfortable feeling you can get with tight jeans in humid conditions.
Shorts, Capris & Skorts for DC Summers
These are summer staples for a reason! They offer maximum coolness for hot days.
Skorts
I love skorts for travel! They look like a skirt but have built-in shorts, offering comfort, coverage, and freedom of movement without worrying about windy days or sitting comfortably. They are perfect for looking a little dressier than shorts while staying cool and comfortable.
Beroy Skorts Skirts
The beroy Skorts Skirts has an athletic-type fabrics that are great for moisture-wicking and stretch.
Shorts
Pack a few pairs in comfortable lengths. While DC is generally casual, super-short shorts might feel out of place in some museums or government buildings (though enforcement is rare for tourists). Knee-length or mid-thigh Bermuda shorts are always a safe bet. Consider fabrics like cotton, linen blends, or quick-drying materials.
ELLEVEN Bermuda Cargo Shorts
The ELLEVEN Bermuda Cargo Shorts offer a comfortable length and handy pockets. Some people recommend wearing shorts under skirts due to humidity, which is a good tip.
Capris
A great compromise between shorts and pants, capris offer more coverage than shorts but are cooler than full-length pants. Look for lightweight fabrics. The MoFiz Women’s Cargo Capris combine the shorter length with useful pockets and often come in quick-dry fabrics, ideal for unpredictable summer weather (yes, pop-up thunderstorms happen!).
GRAPENT Capri Pant
The GRAPENT Capri Pants blend a shorter length with practical pockets and lightweight fabric, making them ideal for unpredictable summer weather.
Quick Comparison: Best Bottoms for Washington DC Summers
| Preview | Bottom Type | Best For | Example Product | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linen Pants | Breathable, stylish, lightweight | UMIPUBO Women’s Linen Pants | Amazon |
| Chinos | Polished casual sightseeing | Banana Republic All Day Pant | Banana Republic |
| Travel/Hiking Pants | Maximum walking comfort, quick-dry | Skechers Women’s Go Walk Pant | Amazon |
| Lightweight Jeans | Trendy, relaxed fit for humid days | EVALESS Women’s Denim Pants | Amazon |
| Skorts | Dressier look with coverage & comfort | Beroy Skorts Skirts | Amazon |
| Bermuda Shorts | Casual sightseeing with practical pockets | ELLEVEN Bermuda Cargo Shorts | Amazon |
| Capris | Extra coverage + breathability | GRAPENT Capri Pants | Amazon |
Tops: Staying Cool and Layering Smart
Your tops need to be lightweight and breathable above all else. Think natural fibers like cotton and linen, or performance blends designed to wick sweat away.(Smiles on Arrival) Tank tops and tees are staples, but also consider slightly dressier options and a light layer for AC.
POTILI Women’s Denim Shirt
A lightweight denim or chambray shirt is surprisingly useful in the summer. You can wear it open over a tank top as a light jacket (perfect for chilly museums!), tie it at your waist, or wear it buttoned up on a slightly cooler morning or evening. It adds a classic, casual touch.
Women’s Crewneck Button Decor T-Shirt
Simple, breathable t-shirts are a must-have for DC’s summer heat. This one has cute button details that make it feel a little more polished than a basic tee. It’s made from lightweight fabric, making it easy to pair with shorts, skirts, or linen pants. Pack a few in neutral colors for versatility, and maybe a pop of color for fun!
ANRABESS Women Cap Sleeve Tops
Cap sleeves offer a little shoulder coverage (good for sun protection and feeling slightly more covered indoors) without the heat of a full sleeve. Tops like these often come in soft, flowy fabrics that feel great against the skin. They pair well with pants, shorts, and skirts.
Gihgeow Womens Tank Top
I also recommend packing a few basic tank tops – they are great on their own or for layering under the denim shirt. And consider a lightweight cardigan or wrap, maybe in cotton or rayon, specifically for dealing with aggressive air conditioning. It seems counterintuitive to pack warm layers for summer, but trust me, you might need it indoors! (Travel and Dish)
Once you’ve packed breathable tops and lightweight bottoms, the next big key to surviving DC’s summer heat is choosing the right shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing
Dresses and Skirts: Breezy Options for Staying Cool
Few things are better for a hot DC summer day than a lightweight dress or easy skirt. They’re stylish, comfortable, and can instantly make you feel more polished — whether you’re heading into a museum, grabbing lunch, or sightseeing around the National Mall. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen blends, or flowy synthetics that don’t cling.
MEROKEETY Women’s Sleeveless Summer Dress
An easy pull-on sundress is another summer MVP. This one has a lightweight fabric, and works well with sneakers, sandals, or wedges — super versatile for DC’s mix of casual and semi-formal settings.
ZABERRY Womens Summer Midi Dress
A flowy dress is perfect for summer travel — it looks cute in photos, and keeps you cool. This one has a flattering fit and comes in lots of fun colors and patterns.
ZESICA Women’s 2025 Summer Bohemian Maxi Skirt
If you prefer separates, a breezy maxi skirt is a fantastic choice. You can pair it with a tank or simple tee, and the flowy style keeps air moving to prevent overheating. Bonus: It feels polished but casual.
Shoes: The Most Important Decision You’ll Make!
Okay, I cannot stress this enough: Comfortable shoes are NON-NEGOTIABLE for exploring DC. You will walk. A lot. More than you probably anticipate. On hard sidewalks, up and down museum stairs, across the vast National Mall… your feet will thank you for choosing wisely. Blisters on day one can ruin a trip!
So, what kind of shoes work best for figuring out what to wear in Washington DC in summer?
ALTRA Women’s Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe
Hear me out on trail runners! They are designed for long distances on uneven terrain, which means incredible cushioning and support. The Altra brand is known for its foot-shaped toe box, allowing your toes to spread naturally — amazing for preventing squished toes after hours of walking. While designed for trails, they are fantastic city walking shoes.
Crocs Women’s Brooklyn Low Wedges
Want something a bit more stylish than sneakers but still comfortable? These Crocs wedges are surprisingly awesome. They have that signature Crocs comfort foam but look much more put-together than the classic clogs. The low wedge gives a little height without being unstable. I wouldn’t walk 10 miles in them, but they’re great for museum days, dinners out, or exploring a neighborhood with slightly less intense walking.
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Now Platform Sneaker
If you want cushy, supportive sneakers that don’t scream “gym shoes,” Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Now Platform Sneakers are a fantastic pick. They combine lightweight cushioning, breathable materials, and a slightly elevated sole for extra comfort. Perfect for casual outfits, sightseeing days, and city adventures without sacrificing style.
Arromic Ballet Flats
Sometimes you just want something light, flexible, and easy to slip on. Arromic Ballet Flats are a travel-friendly option that still looks cute with dresses or casual outfits. They fold easily into your bag (great for backups!) and offer more cushioning than typical flimsy flats, making them a smart choice for lighter walking days or dinners out.
On Cloud 5 Sneakers
If you want a lightweight, breathable sneaker that feels like walking on air, the On Cloud 5 is a fantastic option. Designed for runners but beloved by travelers, these shoes have incredible cushioning without feeling heavy or bulky. They’re perfect for long museum days, walking the National Mall, or casual dinners when you want a sleek, sporty look. Bonus: They slip on easily thanks to the elastic laces, but still feel secure enough for miles of exploring.
Pro Tip: Bring at least two pairs of comfortable walking shoes and alternate them each day. This gives the cushioning time to bounce back and lets the shoes air out (important in humid weather!). Even if one pair feels great, switching can prevent blisters or sore spots from developing due to rubbing in the same place constantly. Consider supportive sandals with arch support as another option, but ensure they are broken in and won’t cause chafing in the heat.
Quick Comparison: Best Shoes for Walking in Washington DC Summers
| Shoe | Best For | Features | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum support and comfort | Wide toe box, cushioned, trail-ready for city streets | Amazon |
| Slightly dressier, casual exploring | Crocs comfort foam, low stable wedge | Amazon |
| Cushioned walking with casual style | Lightweight, breathable, platform sole | Amazon |
| Lightweight backup or dressier days | Foldable, cushioned, travel-friendly flats | Amazon |
| Lightweight, sporty sightseeing | Breathable, elastic laces, sleek look | Amazon |
Sunglasses: Essential Eye Protection
Don’t forget your sunnies! The summer sun can be bright, especially reflecting off pavement and buildings. Protecting your eyes is important, and let’s be honest, sunglasses complete a summer look!
BUTABY Rectangle Sunglasses
A classic, chic rectangle shape that suits many face shapes. Simple, stylish, and does the job of keeping the sun out of your eyes.
SOJOS Retro Aviator Polarized Sunglasses
Aviators are timeless. The key benefit here is polarization. Polarized lenses significantly reduce glare, which can be intense on sunny DC days reflecting off memorials or the Potomac River. It makes a noticeable difference in visual comfort.
Bags: Carry Your Essentials Comfortably and Safely
You’ll need a bag to carry your daily essentials: water bottle (stay hydrated!), sunscreen, wallet, phone, maybe that light layer for AC, snacks, a portable charger, etc. Think about security and comfort.
BOSTANTEN Small Sling Bag
A crossbody bag is my top recommendation for city travel. It keeps your hands free, distributes weight comfortably, and keeps your belongings secure in front of you. This one is a good size for essentials without being bulky.
Becokan Beach Bag
If you need to carry more – maybe towels for a hotel pool, extra layers for the whole family, or souvenirs – a larger tote like this might be useful. Just be mindful that carrying a heavy tote on one shoulder all day can get tiring. This might be better for specific outings rather than all-day, every-day use.
TUMI Voyageur Sedona Crossbody
If you prefer something known for durability and organization, TUMI is a great option. This crossbody is likely lightweight nylon, easy to clean, and has well-designed pockets to keep things organized. A solid investment piece for travel.
Etsy Hat Carrying Tote
A sunhat is a must for exploring DC in the summer — but packing one can be a hassle! A hat-carrying tote solves the problem by giving you a stylish, lightweight bag with clips or straps to hold your hat securely. No more crushed brims or awkward balancing acts in your hands. Plus, you get extra space inside for your essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way. It’s a simple addition that makes a huge difference when you’re spending long days outdoors.
Whatever bag you choose, make sure it’s not too heavy before you even put anything in it!
Hats: Stylish Sun Protection You’ll Be Glad You Packed
A hat is another non-negotiable for me in the DC summer sun. It protects your face, scalp, and neck from sunburn and helps keep you cooler. Plus, it can hide humidity-challenged hair! 😉
FURTALK Panama Hat
A Panama hat is such a classic summer look. It’s stylish, breathable, and provides good shade. Many are packable, meaning you can crush them into your suitcase, and they’ll pop back into shape. Look for one with a UPF rating for extra sun protection.
FURTALK Wide Brim Straw Hat
If maximum sun protection is your goal, go for a wider brim. This offers more coverage for your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Straw is naturally breathable.
Hatiis Sun Hat
Another great sun hat option. Look for features like an adjustable inner band for a secure fit (helpful on breezy days) or a chin strap if you prefer extra security. Packability is also a plus for travel hats.
Optional Bonus: Swimsuit Covers
Are you staying at a hotel with a pool? Planning a little side trip to maybe Sandy Point State Park in Maryland or even just lounging by the water? A swimsuit cover-up is nice to have for walking to/from the pool or grabbing a drink poolside.
ANRABESS Women’s Crochet Swimsuit Cover
Crochet cover-ups are stylish and allow for airflow. They provide some coverage while still feeling light and summery.
Ekouaer 2-Piece Sheer Sarong Cover-Ups
Sarongs are incredibly versatile. You can tie them around your waist in different ways, wear them as a dress, or even use one as a light shawl. Sheer fabrics dry quickly and don’t add bulk to your bag
Accessories: Lightweight Finishing Touches That Matter
With the heat and humidity, I tend to keep accessories pretty simple in the summer. Heavy jewelry can feel sticky and uncomfortable.
WERFORU 3-Pack Skinny Belts
A skinny belt can define your waist when wearing looser tops, dresses, or even over a cardigan. Having a pack of neutrals gives you options to coordinate with different outfits without adding much weight to your luggage.
Famous Artists Scarves by Galleria
A lightweight scarf, especially one made of silk or a light synthetic blend, can be surprisingly useful. Tie it in your hair, loop it around your neck to add color (or absorb sweat!), tie it onto your bag, or use it as a light shoulder cover in AC. These artistic ones add a nice pop of personality.
PAVOI 14K Gold Plated Lightweight Hoop Earrings
Simple hoop earrings go with everything. These are described as lightweight, which is key – you don’t want heavy earrings pulling on your earlobes when you’re already feeling warm. Gold-plated adds a touch of polish without the worry of expensive fine jewelry while traveling.
A Note on Dress Codes in DC
You might be wondering if there are strict dress codes, especially for visiting government buildings or museums. Generally, for tourists, the dress code is quite relaxed. Comfort is understood to be important! You’ll see people in shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers everywhere, especially around the National Mall and Smithsonian museums.(Reddit) Even for tours like the Pentagon, there isn’t usually an official strict dress code for visitors beyond using common sense; neat casual wear is typically fine.(Facebook)
That said, I personally tend to avoid super short shorts or tops that are very revealing when going into museums or more formal government buildings, just out of respect. Think neat, clean, and comfortable casual wear.(Travel and Dish) If you plan on visiting places like Capitol Hill for meetings or exploring the internal office areas (less common for typical tourists), the expectation might lean more towards business casual (think dresses, skirts, slacks, blouses).(Reddit) Some upscale restaurants will also have dress codes (e.g., no flip-flops or tank tops for men in the evening). But for the average tourist visiting the main sights? Focus on staying cool and comfortable.
Putting It All Together: Sample DC Summer Outfits
Okay, let’s visualize how these pieces can work together for different DC summer days:
- Heavy Walking Day (Mall & Monuments): Skechers Go Walk Pants + basic Crewneck T-Shirt + ALTRA Lone Peak sneakers + FURTALK Panama Hat + BOSTANTEN Crossbody Bag + SOJOS Aviator Sunglasses. Don’t forget to stash a water bottle and sunscreen in the bag!
- Museum Hopping Day (Indoors/Outdoors): MoFiz Cargo Capris + ANRABESS Cap Sleeve Top + Crocs Brooklyn Wedges (or the Altras if you prefer max comfort) + POTILI Denim Shirt (to wear in AC) + Famous Artists Scarf (tied on bag or for shoulders) + TUMI Crossbody Bag + BUTABY Sunglasses.
- Exploring Georgetown & Evening Casual Dinner: EVALESS Wide Leg Pants + nicer Tank Top + WERFORU Skinny Belt + Anne Klein Block Heels (or the Crocs Wedges) + PAVOI Hoop Earrings + lightweight cardigan for evening/AC + Small Crossbody Bag.
- Active Day (Maybe biking or a park): beroy Skort + sweat-wicking Tank Top + ALTRA Lone Peak sneakers + Hatiis Sun Hat + Small Crossbody or even a small backpack + Sunglasses.
See how you can mix and match? The key is choosing versatile basics in comfortable fabrics and having those essential accessories like great shoes, a hat, and sunglasses.
Final Thoughts on What To Wear In Washington DC In Summer
Whew! We’ve covered a lot, haven’t we? Packing for what to wear in Washington DC in summer really boils down to anticipating the heat and humidity while planning for lots of walking and transitions between outdoors and air conditioning.
Remember these key takeaways:
- Prioritize Breathable Fabrics: Cotton, linen, rayon, chambray, and moisture-wicking blends are your friends. Leave heavy synthetics at home!
- Comfortable Shoes are Essential: Bring at least two broken-in pairs you can walk miles in. Your feet are your transportation!
- Embrace Layers: A light cardigan, wrap, or denim shirt is crucial for surviving chilly indoor spaces.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Hats and sunglasses are must-haves. Sunscreen too, of course!
- Stay Hydrated: Carry that water bottle!
- Don’t Overpack: Choose versatile pieces you can mix and match.
Visiting Washington DC in the summer is an incredible experience. Yes, it can be hot and sticky, but with the right wardrobe choices focused on lightweight comfort and a little bit of style, you’ll be ready to explore everything the city has to offer without melting. I hope these suggestions help you pack with confidence and have an absolutely amazing trip! Enjoy the history, the culture, and all the fantastic sights! ✨
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