Packing Right for the In-Between Seasons
It‘s always a challenge to figure out what to pack, especially if you want to keep your bag small and light. 60 degree weather can waver between hot and cold, so it can be particularly difficult to figure out what to bring. The secret is to dress in layers, so you can peel them on and off as needed, especially in the spring and fall when weather becomes so unpredictable. Below are style tips to navigate fashion-forward outfit ideas for 60-degree days.
Do: Pack a Shirt, Preferably With Wicking Properties
A short or long sleeve t shirt is the ideal first layer. You can go with any old shirt, but there are a few on the market that either wick moisture away from your body or don't allow the sweat to absorb into the fabric at all. This means that if you get too warm and a little sweaty, the sweat quickly evaporates away. These high-tech fabrics are ideal for between-season dressing because a damp layer of clothing next to your skin will make you feel even colder. If you may have a dressier event to attend, pack a long button-down shirt with a tank top underneath to wear comfortably.
Do: Pack a Light Jacket
At 60 degrees F, you'll feel most comfortable with a jacket or blazer over your outfit. One that’s wind- and water-resistant is ideal, so you’ll be set for a variety of weather conditions. Even better is to have a jacket with a removable hood and sleeves, so a sudden shower or a spike in temperature won’t bother you a bit. For a more stylish option, pick a light material trench coat or pick a leather jacket to give your outfit an edge. Denim jackets are most optimal for this weather as well.
Look for travel jackets with multiple pockets. The best ones have pockets designed to carry tablets, books and water bottles as well as your phone, wallet, sunglasses and plenty of snacks for the whole day. You might even eliminate the need to carry a day bag or purse.
Do: Pack a Light Scarf
A pashmina-style scarf helps prevent a cool day from becoming uncomfortable. It doesn’t need to be expensive pashmina cashmere either. A scarf in light wool or cotton works just fine (and can be thrown in the wash). It’s the large size that makes this kind of scarf useful for dealing with 60-degree temperatures.
Draped or wrapped around your neck, the scarf provides just enough extra warmth, as well as a little bit of style. If you're really feeling chilly, unfurl it and wrap it around your shoulders like a shawl. A bright color helps dress up your outfit too.
Don't: Bring a Heavy Coat
When you’re packing, also take into consideration factors other than the temperature. It will be cooler by the shore with a breeze off the water. Similarly, walking through the streets of a big city can feel chilly because of the shade from the tall buildings. However, a day in the 60s in the bright sunshine without wind might feel too warm for even a light jacket.
Regardless of the kind of 60s weather you'll be in, bringing a heavy coat just takes up too much room in your bag. With the in-between season temperatures you’ll likely feel too hot with it on and too cold without it, so aim for a light jacket.
Don't: Bring Shorts
Unless you’re really warm-blooded or you’ve been stuck in January snowstorms, 60 degrees F is too cold for shorts. While you might think a summer vacation in California means shorts weather, keep in mind that places like San Fransisco can be stuck in the 60s for a week or more, as well as covered in fog in June. It might be summer, but it won’t feel like it, especially if you’re underdressed in shorts.
Do: Bring appropriate shoes
Whether you are going on a vacation where there will be lots of walking or just planning to casually visit friends for a few days, wear comfy shoes that are suitable for traveling around. If you choose to wear tall boots, find ones with cushioned soles and a low heel. Chelsea boots are a great option for dressing up an outfit while remaining stylish too. Skip past the summertime flip flops and opt for loafers instead, which can be a great go-to during this kind of weather.
Other Tips
When it comes to dresses, amazon can be a great place to shop for sweater dresses and layerable dress options fit for any occasion. Be sure to pack tights as well, as they can go under a dress if the weather begins to fare on the colder side. Black leggings can substitute for tights as well if they aren’t available to you.