If you’re wondering what to wear in New Orleans, you’re already planning the right way.
The weather can swing from sunny and hot to breezy and wet, sometimes on the same day.
My guide breaks down what to wear in New Orleans in every season so you can pack smart and stay comfortable.
This is what to wear in New Orleans, by the month:
Why I’m Qualified to Write this New Orleans Outfit Guide
I’m more than qualified to write this outfit guide to New Orleans because I live right around the corner (Texas), and I’ve been here dozens of times.
I know New Orleans like the back of my hand, and I’ve designed multiple guided walking tours for NOLA Tour Guy.
NOLA has a piece of me.
5 New Orleans Essentials You Need in Any Weather
No matter the time of year, figuring out what to wear in New Orleans always starts with comfort and flexibility.
The city’s humid air, romantic cobblestone streets, and year-round sunshine mean packing wisely is key.
NOLA is a melting pot, and your luggage will be, too, when packing to visit there.
Sunscreen: I know I keep saying this, but THE SUN HERE IS NO JOKE! I’ve used this sunscreen for years (I call it old reliable), because it’s powerful, invisible, and doesn’t break me out (like nearly everything else).
Breathable fabrics: Lightweight cotton or linen keeps you cool even in sticky weather.
Comfortable walking shoes: I can’t say this enough. You’ll walk everywhere, from the French Quarter to Garden District mansions.
Light rain jacket: Afternoon showers can roll in fast, especially in spring and summer.
Sunglasses: New Orleans stays bright and beautiful all year, so you’ll need protection from that strong southern sun.
Hat: A wide-brim hat or baseball cap helps you handle the heat in style.
Crossbody bag: Keep your essentials close when exploring busy streets and festivals.
Compact umbrella: NOLA is known for random rain. A tiny umbrella is perfect for sudden downpours without taking up space. I like this one because it’s not only waterproof but also has UV protection for super sunny days.
New Orleans Weather in the Spring
Spring in New Orleans feels like the pink heart emoji (warm and joyful).
It’s also festival season, so you’ll need outfits that can handle long days outside and cool evenings.
In spring, the Barataria Preserve (part of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park), just 30 minutes from downtown New Orleans, bursts with wildflowers.
Another great spot is City Park, where flowers bloom around Big Lake and the Botanical Garden. Black dresses or neutral colors look great with the wildflowers!
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival fills late April and early May, while the French Quarter Festival in mid-April. If you’re going to either of these (exciting!), wear bright and bold outfits to match the vibe and colors of the festival.
What to wear
Spring in New Orleans is one of the most mild times of the year. Here’s what to wear:
- Loose, breathable dresses
- Long, flowy dresses and maxi skirts for sunny days
- Comfy leggings for hiking and long walks in the French Quarter
- Crop tops paired with high waisted shorts or maxi skirts
- Comfortable sandals or water-resistant shoes for rainy days
- Lightweight hat or cute straw hat for shade during walking tours
- A light, versatile raincoat and compact travel umbrella
| Month | Average High / Low (°F) | Average Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| March | High 72°F / Low 54°F | 6 days |
| April | High 78°F / Low 60°F | 5 days |
| May | High 85°F / Low 68°F | 6 days |
Read: The Bourbon Street Bucket List
New Orleans Weather in the Summer
Summer in New Orleans is hot, humid, and unforgettable.
Expect highs in the 90s and humidity that makes the air feel heavy. The city sits in the Deep South, meaning it’s closer to the Gulf and gets thick, tropical air.
June-August are the hottest months with frequent rain and storms.
As you walk the French Quarter, you’ll find yourself grateful for the few businesses that have awnings.
You will sweat, no matter what precautions you take.
Your best bet is a good ‘fit.
What to wear
Here’s what to wear in New Orleans during summer when staying cool is everything:
- Linen anything is perfect for the summer. These linen pants and can easily be dressed up for day or night.
- Witchy, vampy, fancy dresses.
- Moisture-wicking tops to handle humidity
- Comfortable sandals or water-resistant shoes for rainy days
- Dramatic, wide-brimmed hat for shade during walking tours
- The humidity calls for anti-frizz (I live by this one from Olaplex).
Grab my full shopping list of What to Wear in New Orleans in the Summer
| Month | Average High / Low (°F) | Average Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| June | High 89°F / Low 75°F | 10 days |
| July | High 91°F / Low 77°F | 12 days |
| August | High 91°F / Low 77°F | 13 days |
New Orleans Weather in the Fall
Fall in New Orleans brings warm days, crisp nights, and some of the best festivals of the year, like Voodoo Music + Arts Experience and the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival.
Temperatures usually stay in the 70s and 80s during the day and cool off nicely at night.
Halloween is also this month and few cities celebrate it bigger than New Orleans.
I’ve gone each year for the last few Halloweens, and it never disappoints!
From haunted tours and costume parades to candlelit streets and Halloween parties that last a week, October brings the best weather and the most New Orleans-y energy of the year.
What to wear
Here’s what to wear in New Orleans in fall besides your Halloween costume:
- Jeans, leggings, or maxi skirts. Add sheer stockings under skirts for chilly evenings.
- Sexy but warm, long sleeve dresses for nice dinners
- Short-sleeve tops or casual blouses for daytime comfort
- Light cardigan or jacket for the evenings
- Comfortable sneakers or boots for long walks
- YOUR HALLOWEEN COSTUME
| Month | Average High / Low (°F) | Average Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| September | High 87°F / Low 72°F | 7 days |
| October | High 80°F / Low 63°F | 5 days |
| November | High 71°F / Low 53°F | 5 days |
Read:
Guide to Halloween in New Orleans
5 Best Cemeteries in New Orleans
11 Most Creepy Places in New Orleans
New Orleans Weather in the Winter
Winter in New Orleans is mild, with highs in the 60s and 70s and chilly nights in the 40s.
You can still dine outdoors, stroll through the French Quarter, and enjoy Christmas lights and cheer.
Winter is also the best time to visit New Orleans for affordable flights, hotels, and tours. November, December, and January are the city’s quiet(ish) period after Halloween and before Mardi Gras.
What to wear
Here’s what to wear in New Orleans in winter when you want cozy layers without overheating:
- Oversized sweaters for optimal comfort.
- A winter-appropriate jacket that isn’t ugly and tapers at the waist.
- Long-sleeve tops or sweaters for daytime sightseeing
- Light jacket, trench, or denim coat for cooler nights
- Comfy jeans or leggings for walking
- Scarf or wrap for riverfront breezes
- Boots! Always boots for any situation, whenever possible.
- If your ears get cold easily, go for a warm but lightweight beanie in the evenings.
| Month | Average High / Low (°F) | Average Days of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| December | High 64°F / Low 47°F | 7 days |
| January | High 62°F / Low 45°F | 8 days |
| February | High 66°F / Low 48°F | 7 days |
Read: How to Visit New Orleans on a Budget
New Orleans Weather by Month: FAQ
What do tourists wear in New Orleans?
Tourists usually wear light, breathable clothes like sundresses, shorts, and t-shirts.
The city is casual but bright, and everyone adds a little flair with patterns or color.
Think tropical meets the U.S. South.
Good tourists know that comfortable walking shoes are a must in New Orleans since you’ll be exploring all day.
What to wear for a night out in New Orleans
For a night out, aim for fun outfits that can handle the heat and energy.
Women often wear flowy dresses, wedges, or cute flats to dancing/Bourbon and heels for a nice Creole dinner. Bring a light jacket if you’ll be near the riverfront.
Do bars in New Orleans have dress codes?
Most bars in New Orleans are casual, so you don’t need to dress up unless you’re heading somewhere upscale like a rooftop bar or jazz club. Generally, as long as your outfit is neat and put-together, you’ll fit right in.
What do you wear on Bourbon Street at night?
When planning what to wear in New Orleans for Bourbon Street, go for comfort first (I know that can be hard!).
The streets get crowded, and you’ll walk a lot. Choose comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting messy, and skip heels. Lightweight clothes are best since they stay warm late into the night.
Keep valuables in a secure crossbody bag, and bring a small jacket for late-night breezes or rain.
HMU
When are you visting New Orleans? Comment below and let me know.
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