What to Wear in Washington DC
DC has four real seasons. Hot, humid summers. Cold but not extreme winters. Pleasant spring and fall. The right DC wardrobe handles the office dress codes typical of government and law plus the climate's range.
What to wear in Washington DC today
Today's answer depends on today's conditions, so the specific outfit comes from the live reading for Washington DC rather than from this page. Check what to wear right now, or read on for what stays true here whatever the date.
Three things move the answer in Washington DC more than the forecast number does: the feels-like temperature rather than the air temperature, how long you will be outside, and whether you run warm or cold. Humid subtropical conditions make that gap wider here than the daily high suggests.
The humidity is what makes DC summers difficult. Tropical-weight wool suits, linen-cotton dress shirts, breathable shoes are office-summer essentials. The federal government's dress code skews conservative.
See also what to wear right now, do I need a jacket today and how to dress when the temperature swings.
Winter in Washington DC
December through March. 30-50°F. Snow happens but not constant. Wool overcoat over the suit, leather boots, scarf, gloves.
Spring in Washington DC
March through May. 50-75°F. Cherry blossoms in late March / early April. Layered pieces.
Summer in Washington DC
June through August. 80-95°F with high humidity. Linen suits or tropical wool. Sun protection.
Fall in Washington DC
September through November. 55-75°F. Excellent season. Tweed and wool make sense.
Local tips
The humidity is what makes DC summers difficult. Tropical-weight wool suits, linen-cotton dress shirts, breathable shoes are office-summer essentials. The federal government's dress code skews conservative.