A Local’s Guide to What to Wear in Nashville
👉 Jump to: What to Wear in Nashville Overview | Summer | Winter | Spring & Fall | Going Out | Concerts | What Not to Wear in Nashville | Tips | FAQ | Get Printable Packing List
Deciding what to wear in Nashville is one of the most fun parts of the trip-planning process. There are so many great Nashville-inspired outfit ideas to choose from, but some are more suited to certain activities and seasons than others.
As a Nashville local, I can help you figure out what to wear and give you some useful Nashville outfit ideas. Let’s get started with some outfit inspo and ideas for what to add to your packing list for Nashville!
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What Should I Wear In Nashville?
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When dressing for a trip to Nashville, the following are suggestions for what to wear:
- Walking shoes
- Sandals
- Tank tops
- T-shirts
- Blue jeans
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Casual dresses
- Trendy dresses
- Light jacket
Of course, the biggest factors in deciding what to wear will depend on when you visit Nashville and what Nashville activities you have planned.
Most people visit Nashville during the heat of the summer, so it’s important to wear light and breezy clothing like breathable tops, shorts, and skirts to stay cool.
However, check the weather forecast before you head out for the day because the weather doesn’t always follow the seasons. I recommend bringing layers like a light jacket or cardigan just in case it’s cooler than you expect.
As far as style, anything goes in Nashville. You’ll see full-on fringe, cowboy boots, and cowboy hats alongside more practical casual wear. Also, remember that creative people from many fields make their home in Nashville. You’ll see many different aesthetics. You can have fun when making your Nashville packing list.
What to Wear to Nashville in Summer
Summer gets hot in Nashville, especially for visitors not used to humid heat. Stick with casual clothing like t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and comfortable sandals during the day because you are very likely to sweat. Know that the temperature sometimes drops at night, so keep a light jacket nearby.
Here are some ideas for what to wear in the summer:
Check the weather for your trip because sometimes it gets rainy. I suggest having plans to visit Nashville’s museums or other indoor activities during the heat of the day.
That being said, you can probably get away with wearing jeans and other warmer-weather clothing during the shoulder months, including May and possibly June and September. July and August are the hottest months, and it’s important to prioritize dressing for the heat when deciding what to wear in late summer.
Keen Women’s, Elle Backstrap Sandal
Keen’s sandals are cute in hot weather, but also durable enough for walking a lot.
What to Wear to Nashville in Winter
During winter in Nashville, dress to stay warm. Nashville might be a southern city, but it still has cold days and sometimes even snow.
Of course, the temperatures can be unpredictable. It’s possible you’ll arrive in Music City on one of the unusual 70-degree days. However, you should mostly prepare for cold weather when visiting in the winter.
Here are some ideas for what to wear in the winter:
The key to Nashville in the winter is to pack layers. Then, you can adjust your outfit if the weather changes throughout the day. I would suggest bringing an actual heavy coat. Leather jackets and other trendy outerwear aren’t always warm enough.
Also, pack shoes that will keep your feet both warm and dry in case it rains. This is a great time to pack your favorite boots, maybe even your cowboy boots.
New Balance Women’s 411 V1
Classic sneakers are perfect when the weather is unpredictable.
What to Wear to Nashville in Spring and Fall
Just like with summer and winter, it’s hard to know exactly what to wear in Nashville in spring and fall because the weather doesn’t always match the season. Typically, the weather is more mild during spring and fall.
Here are some suggestions for spring and fall:
- Long sleeve shirts
- Casual tops
- T-shirts
- Blue Jeans
- Long Pants
- Skirts
- Casual Dresses
- Cardigans
- Sweatshirts
- Boots
- Walking Shoes
- Flats
Spring and fall are my favorite times to plan Nashville outfit ideas because the milder temperatures give you many options. Bring clothes that you can layer like t-shirts and cardigans. Blue jeans also tend to work well. This is also a time when casual dresses layered under warmer pieces are a good idea, too.
For footwear, you should absolutely check the weather. Some weeks a pair of boots is the best option and other weeks, you can pair flats with your outfits. I’d also suggest throwing a comfy sweatshirt into your suitcase in case the weather changes while you’re visiting Nashville.
Color Block Sweatshirt
A fun sweatshirt is nice to have if the weather changes.
What to Wear to Nashville for Going Out
Remember that Nashville is a casual city. Leave the black tie attire at home but feel free to have fun with your outfits. After all, people here are used to seeing all kinds of styles, and locals won’t blink if you look like you’ve just left a music video shoot.
Here are some Nashville outfit ideas for going out:
Of course, deciding what to wear for going out depends on where you’re going. Wearing a denim jacket and cowboy boots in Honky Tonks on Broadway is just as appropriate as a simple t-shirt and blue jeans.
In some parts of Nashville, you’ll find bars with people wearing leather jackets and skinny jeans. Nashville bachelorette parties at rooftop bars tend to have a dressier look.
One of my favorite spots is White Limozeen, a Dolly Parton-inspired bar in the Graduate Nashville where women wear fun, colorful clothing (and lots of pink and sparkles).
Be sure to check out my full review of the Graduate Nashville if pink, glamorous, and over-the-top describes your aesthetic.
Ruffled Mini Dress
This casual dress is so much fun for going out with the girls.
What to Wear to Nashville at Concerts
Deciding what to wear for a concert in Nashville depends on the artist and which local music venue they are playing at. It also depends on your comfort level. I’ve seen concert tees and feather boa ensembles at the same concert.
Here are some ideas for what to wear at concerts in Nashville:
Wearing your favorite band tee paired with blue jeans is a classic option for casual attire at concerts or other live music events. You can wear a Western vibe for country music or Americana concerts.
Keep in mind the music venue when picking your outfit. Outdoor venues like Ascend Amphitheater and Nissan Stadium are very weather-dependent. Check the weather while planning your outfit and bring a rain poncho for just in case. Also, remember the temperature can drop when the sun goes down, especially in the spring and fall.
Most venues also require that you only bring clear bags and purses inside. Don’t risk having to get out of line to bring your purse back to your vehicle.
Clear Stadium Bag
If you want to bring a bag to a concert, it most likely has to be a clear one.
What NOT to Wear in Nashville
The list of what not to wear in Nashville is very small. Your outfits can really reflect your personal style and you won’t look out of place.
That said, I strongly suggest not wearing cowboy boots for the first time in Nashville. The western-style boots are fun, but you will get blisters if you don’t break your cowboy boots in before visiting Nashville.
You also should avoid high heels unless you plan on renting a car or taking a ride share. Maybe pack a pair if you have a date night planned, but even then, heels aren’t absolutely necessary.
Tips for Dressing for Nashville
Go Shopping in Nashville
Nashville has great independent boutiques like Emerson Grace and Imogene + Willie. The city also has locations of Draper James, Mejuri, Madewell, Stony Clover, and lots of other trendy brands. You can also hit up some of Nashville’s malls while you’re visiting. You’ll find lots of cool wardrobe pieces here.
Plan Activities First
Planning outfit ideas for hiking in Nashville is very different from planning outfit ideas for bar hopping. Decide on your Nashville itinerary first. Then, make your packing list.
Check for Dress Codes
Very few, if any, spots in Nashville have a dress code. Still, if there’s a restaurant or bar on your must-visit list, check the venue’s website to see if there is a dress code. For the most part, Nashville has a very casual vibe.
Bring a Clear Rain Poncho
Ideally, it won’t rain during your trip, but stick a small rain poncho in your bag just in case. The stores can’t always keep enough ponchos in stock if it rains during a major event when tens of thousands of extra visitors are in the city. I suggest getting a clear poncho so your outfit is still visible (if that matters to you).
Bring Layers
The weather in Nashville can be much hotter or cooler than forecasted. Bring warm layers like a cardigan or denim jacket to add or remove as needed. A pair of thick socks can also add warmth without taking up much space in your suitcase.
Consider Changing Before Dinner
Nashville is a casual city, but people tend to dress up a bit more in the evenings. This is the time to bring out your dressier or super trendy Nashville outfits. It’s just more fun to dress up at night in Music City whether you’re going out to a bar or a nice dinner.
FAQs
What should I wear in Nashville in Summer?
Wear clothing that will keep you cool in Nashville in the summer. The temperatures reach into the 90s and above in July and August. Bring t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and linen pants. Be prepared to sweat when you go outside.
What should men wear in Nashville?
Men should usually wear casual clothes in Nashville. Suits and ties are rarely worn outside of special events. Button-up shirts are sometimes worn at nice dinners. Most of the time men wear laid-back outfits.
How do people dress at night in Nashville?
People usually dress up a little more at night in Nashville. The outfits are still on the casual side but have a little extra flair at night.
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Thanks for reading my guide to what to wear for visiting Nashville! Before you go, check out my guide to Nashville’s top restaurants.
