What to Wear in Seattle | A Local’s Fall Packing List
If you’re deciding what to wear in Seattle in the fall, this post will help you navigate what clothing you need!
Visiting Seattle, Washington, is beyond beautiful any time of year. Fall in Seattle brings crisp air, changing leaves, sunny days, drizzly nights, stunning hikes, and lots of coffee. ☕
As a local, aka a “Seattleite”, I usually dress casually in jeans, leggings, or athletic wear, often topped with a flannel. Seattle leans into a blend of grungey vibes and outdoorsy aesthetics, and most locals stick to earthy or dark colors.
NORTH FACE Thermoball Traction Mule Slippers
Whether I’m backpacking, road-tripping, or traveling internationally, these slippers are the first thing I pack. With rubber traction soles and a cozy fit, these are perfect for apres-ski, lounging, or casual wear. They are durable, water-resistant, and feel like duvets on your feet.
I’ve lived in Washington for most of my life (aside from about five years when the Army had other plans), and it’s still one of my favorite places in the world, especially in the fall.
Time to jump into the best 2025 fall in Seattle packing list!
What to Wear in Seattle in the Fall
Seattle’s fall season runs from September through November. It usually starts off warmer in September, cools down in October, and by late November, you might even catch some snow in the mountains.
When figuring out what to wear in Seattle in the fall, keep in mind that the weather shifts a lot throughout the season. Layers are key this time of year, Washington fall days can go from sunny to rainy really quickly. (You’ll definitely want a good rain jacket in the mix.)
- Seattle in September Averages: Highs: mid‑70s °F / Lows: low 50s °F
- Seattle in October Averages: Highs: mid 50s–60s °F / Lows: mid 40s °F
- Seattle in November Averages: Highs: upper 40s–low 50s °F / Lows: low 40s °F
My Favorite Travel Resources
– Best Hotel Rates: Booking.com
– Best Rental Cars: Rentalcars.com
– Best Tour Services: Viator
Fall Clothing Essential Items for Seattle
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve lived in the Seattle area for years, and this list is based on my personal must-haves and go-to favorites for what to wear in Seattle during the fall.
These fall clothing essentials are perfect whether you’re visiting Seattle or you live here and just need some outfit ideas or new pieces to add to your closet.
✅ Outer Layers
Puffer Jacket
If you’re visiting Seattle in September, you might not need a jacket every day. But by October and November, it becomes a staple. This Marmot jacket is one of my favorites; it keeps me warm, packs easily, and isn’t too heavy, which makes it perfect for layering during Seattle’s fall season.
MARMOT Women’s Jacket
Rain Jacket
Washington has a rainy reputation, but it’s mostly light drizzle, not Southern-style downpours. Heavy rain happens, but it’s not typical.
I’ll be honest, though, when we have our rainy days, they usually last for a few days, and the weather feels pretty dreary. If you love to snuggle up in a cozy hotel or have a spa day, this is the perfect weather.
Fleece Pullover
I live in my fleece jacket once fall hits in Washington. It’s like wearing a hug—warm, soft, and perfect for those chilly, kinda-damp days we get around here.
I throw it over pretty much anything: leggings, jeans, even pajamas if I’m just running out for coffee.
Light Jacket
My go-to jackets for fall in Washington are either a denim jacket, a cozy sweatshirt, or a shacket.
A light jacket is a local’s go-to option when the weather is a bit warmer, or if we want to add another layer on top of it for the cooler days. They’re the perfect weight while visiting Seattle in the fall, plus they look cute and give that laid-back Pacific Northwest vibe.
✅ Tops
Tank Tops
In early September, it still feels like second summer here, so I’m sometimes in tank tops and shorts.
These tank tops are great for layering when the temps bounce around, and I personally love the ones with built-in bras. Way more comfy, amirght?
They are perfect for hikes, workouts, or even just hanging out. You can dress them up or keep it casual, whatever the day calls for.
Basic Tank Top
Tees
I’m a girl who loves a good basic t-shirt. While you’re deciding what to wear in Seattle in the fall, this item should definitely be in your suitcase.
It’s perfect for layering on a morning coffee date and still looks put-together enough to wear into town after. I go for ones with a flattering cut and soft, breathable fabric. #LookGoodFeelGood
Abardsion Women’s Casual Crop Top
Sweaters
A sweater is perfect for Washington since it’s easy to layer over a tank or tee, and you can throw a puffer jacket on top when it gets colder.
I lean towards something a bit warmer (and affordable), and this crew neck on Amazon is just the right weight. If you prefer a snug fit, size down, but if you like a slightly oversized feel, stick with your usual size.
ZESICA Women’s Crew Neck Sweater
Flannels
Flannels are a staple in Seattle and work most of the year. Pack one and you’ll blend right in with the locals.
They’re great for sitting by a fire at night, a casual day out, or wearing with a wool hat while checking out some of Seattle’s breweries.
Note: Gluten-free friends, check out Ghostfish Brewing Company! Everything, and I mean everything, in the brewery is gluten-free, aka all of the food and beer.
Beaully Women’s Flannel Plaid Shacket
✅ Bottoms
Jeans
Seattle is laid-back, so jeans fit right in. They work for just about anything you’ll be doing, besides hiking or certain outdoor activities.
Bring a pair you’re comfortable in, since you’ll probably reach for them more than once.
Womens High Waisted Cropped Jeans
Leggings / Joggers
Grab a pair of leggings and a flannel or joggers with a fleece for a cozy, casual outfit. It’s simple, warm, and easy to throw on. They can be cute, grungey, or outdoorsy…aka Seattle in a pair of pants.
Hiking Pants
If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I’m hiking no matter where I go, sun, rain, snow, you name it.
And after trying way too many pairs of hiking pants (why are so many not made for athletic builds?!), I finally found a pair that works.
These Coalatree Trailhead pants have been my tried and true. I wear them for hiking and backpacking, but also just out and about on cooler days or lounging at home.
👉 Similar Posts:
Coalatree Trailhead Pants | An Honest Review
Best Women’s Hiking Pants of 2025 (Personally Tested)
✅ Footwear
Walking Shoes
If you plan on walking around Seattle or grabbing a coffee and walking around Green Lake (highly recommend). You will want comfortable walking shoes.
Plus, Seattle is on a hill, so prepare to get a little bit of a leg workout.
Waterproof Boots / Hiking Boots
Since Seattle leans outdoorsy, it’s pretty normal to see people wearing hiking boots, even if they aren’t hiking.
I always stick with comfy, waterproof ones; these Danner boots are a favorite of mine (my other go-tos are KEENs. They’re versatile enough to wear around the city and hit the trail. Two-for-one!
👉 Similar Post:
Best Women’s Hiking Boots (2025): Personally Tested
Warm Socks
Comfy socks are a must when visiting Seattle in the fall. The weather can shift throughout the day, and on those dreary afternoons, there’s nothing better than curling up with my Kindle while these socks keep my toes warm and cozy.
Sandals
I mentioned earlier that September in Seattle can be fairly warm, so bringing sandals is the move. Truthfully, I wear Chacos year-round, and when it’s cold, I put on my warm socks with them. Don’t worry, it’s not weird in Washington State, it’s the granola vibe. 😜
If you’re not convinced by the warm September weather or socks and sandals, here are a couple of other reasons to bring them.
- Washington has a ton of hot springs and spas to visit, where you will want to have a pair of sandals that you can slip on.
- Hikers: It always feels good to take your boots off and switch into a pair of sandals after a long day hiking.
✅ Hats
Baseball Cap
It gets fairly windy by the water when visiting Seattle, especially when hopping on the ferry to check out some of the local islands.
👉 Similar Posts:
Deception Pass State Park (A Local’s Perspective)
7 Best Whale Watching Tours in Washington (2025 Guide)
Wool Hat
Looking to add a little style to your outfit? A wool hat is the way to go. It’s cute, adds a little something extra, and keeps you warm.
If you’re planning to visit the wineries in Woodinville (they’re a blast, some even have live music), a wool hat completes the look.
Beanies
You’ll blend in with the locals if you’re rocking a beanie while visiting Seattle in the fall.
I wear my Carhartt beanie a lot during this time of year. It’s perfect if you’re hiking, casually walking around, and it can be “dressed up” with a cute flannel, leggings, and boots.
✅ Fall Weather Accessories
Lightweight Scarf
I’ll be honest, I’m not someone who wears a lot of scarves, unless it’s really cold outside. However, this scarf is comfortable without being too overwhelming.
Gloves
If you’re visiting in September or early October, you probably won’t need gloves. But by late October or into November, I’d pack a pair. Check the weather before your trip for expected daily temperatures.
If you’re planning to hike, I’d pack gloves. Higher elevations are colder and can start to see snow by late November.
🎉 Style Tips for Fall in Seattle
Seattle locals favor casual, layered outfits, think jeans, boots, jackets, and cozy knits. The vibe? Cute yet lazy, a touch of granola meets urban.
Subject to change: flannel shirts, denim jackets, waterproof layers, and classic boots are staples in most wardrobes.
✨ Outfit Examples
1. Puffy jacket look: Puffer, dark-wash jeans, waterproof boots, beanie.
2. Flannel look: Flannel over tee, leggings, sneakers, daypack.
3. Layered chic: Light sweater, straight-leg jeans, slip-on boots, knit cap.
✨ Bonus: What to Wear for Specific Fall Activities
Hiking: Waterproof jacket, breathable base layer, hiking boots
City Tours/tours: Layers, you can peel off or add as needed
Football games: Gloves, scarf, hat, warm jacket
What to Pack for Seattle (Year-Round)
- Daypack – The Best Osprey Pack
- Packing Cubes – Top-Rated Travel Cubes
- Portable Charger – The One Item That Is Always In My Purse
- Reusable Water Bottle – Insulated Travel Water Bottle
- Swimsuit – Aerie
- Suitcase or Duffle Bag – Affordable Duffle Bag
- Sunglasses – Best Affordable Sunglasses
- Kindle – Paperwhite
- Camera – Digital Camera or Polaroid
What to Wear in Seattle: FAQ
💡 Is Seattle worth visiting in the fall?
Yes! The weather is crisp in the mornings and mild throughout the day. If you’re planning on hiking, this is one of the most epic times of the year!
💡 Does it snow in Seattle in the fall?
It doesn’t typically snow till winter. Seattle in the fall sees cooler temperatures and rain.
💡 How do locals dress in Seattle in the fall?
Casual: jeans, layered tops, waterproof pieces, boots, beanies. Aka comfortable.
What to Wear in Seattle Wrapped Up
Seattle in the fall has a vibe all its own. If you pack smart with layers, waterproof shoes, and a few cozy pieces, you’ll be ready for whatever the city throws your way. Walking through city parks, sipping coffee, or heading out on a hike, comfort is key.
Before you go, check the weather. Seattle temperatures can swing from surprisingly warm and sunny to chilly and damp, sometimes all in one day.
Either way, fall is a great time to experience Seattle at a slower pace, with fewer crowds, with a crisp autumn feel in the air.
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
