These Rainy Day Outfits Are Ready For April Showers
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It’s raining outside. You’ve been standing in front of your closet for what seems to be thirty minutes and a million questions are running through your mind: “What am I going to wear in the rain?” “Should I dress up or down? “ “Should I wear rain boots or something else?”
We’ve all been there. The trouble with rainy weather is that it can really throw a wrench in our style if we’re not prepared. But, there are countless reasons to love rainy days, too. One of those reasons is because of just how beautiful those days can be. It can always be a fun idea to take advantage of the picturesque scenery and snap some rainy day photos of yourself, the weather, and most importantly, your cute rainy day outfit!
That’s why, here at Swift, we’ve thrown together these rainy day outfits that stay true to this year’s fashion trends, but with modifications for inclement weather and affordability (you probably even have some of these items in your closet!).
The Classic Raincoat
Shop: Yellow Raincoat | Sweater | Jeans | Rainboots | Clear Umbrella | Beanie
For starters, let’s keep it simple with the classic rainy weather look. Rain boots may be stereotypical, but that doesn’t make them any less fashionable. Start your Instagram-worthy look with traditional tall boots. Then, you’ll want to style a classic raincoat that will complement those boots with ease. Since the bright yellow raincoat is the star, keep your top and bottoms muted with a coordinating sweater and jeans. Adding a hat, such as a beanie, will give your look a little extra cutesy flare (and warmth!). Don’t forget to add the perfect rain accessory to your pictures: a clear bubble umbrella!
Running In The Rain
Rainy days aren’t usually the days that we feel most motivated to work out, but we can’t let the weather stop us from moving our bodies. Nothing will motivate you more on these dreary days than conquering your reps with a stylish workout outfit!
Pastels are a simple way to brighten up an otherwise gray day. Make it gym-ready with a pair of leggings and top (if they match, even better!) that can honestly be worn to just about any casual outing. Chunky shoes or sneakers are still one of the biggest trends in fashion right now, so you’ll probably want a pair, too! Whether it’s just sprinkling outside–or, even worse, a downpour–you’ll want to add on some outerwear like a thin (but insulated) jacket, a baseball cap, and silk scrunchies to keep your hair secure.
Prepare for Business
Shop: Shirt | Maxi Skirt | TCoat | Boots | Tote
If you’re like me, you may not be a fan of going to work in rainy weather. The traffic, the wet ground against business flats, the rain splashing up against trouser hems–it’s usually not a great way to start a workday (or night). But, no mist or downpour should get in the way of you owning your work outfit for rainy weather.
A classic button-down is always professional, but you might as well make it fashion-forward, too, with a long maxi skirt. (Denim is a unique spin on a long skirt—that is, if your office dress code allows it!) Top this business casual outfit off with a totally CEO-inspired trench coat and boots. And since you'll be heading to work, you may want to complete the look with a stylish tote to hold all of your workday needs.
Sing in the rain
Shop: Rain Jacket | Turtleneck | Pants | Socks | Boots
…or hike, perhaps? Being outside and enjoying the rain can seem like an impractical fantasy that’s only seen in movies. But it doesn’t have to be! All you need in order to splash around outside are the right clothes. Appreciate nature or any outside activity in an outfit made for rainy hikes. You’re sure to have a blast because your outfit is made to keep you dry and warm for hours on end.
Look for pieces that are each waterproof or water-resistant. Your base layer can be a cozy turtleneck that’ll sit underneath a jacket lined for added warmth. Your sneakers or boots could be bright, yet padded for added comfort. And try styling a pair of pants that could be as versatile as a zip-off pair–perfect if you’re in an area where the temperature changes a lot in just a few hours.
Ditch The Raincoat Entirely
Not every rainy day outfit needs a raincoat to stay dry. When it is just a light rain, wearing a balaclava is a creative way to protect your head and hair. A balaclava is a head covering that comes in many designs, but the detachable hoodie design is any fashionista's favorite. A warm color pairs stylishly with a sweater of the same color, so we chose this sweater and hood combo that can be worn with just about any bottom you prefer–we think a timeless plaid skirt will always be perfect. Short rain boots are just the right length to complement the skirt and neutral over-the-knee socks make the warm colors pop in a cute way.
Stay Neutral
Dare I say that gray is the new black? That may be a controversial fashion take, but when you look in the fashion history books, you’ll notice that gray has been one of the most popular neutral colors for decades. A gray look suggests a calm, cool, and confident vibe that flatters any body type and style. Create a refined look by starting with a pair of gray wide leg trousers and a cardigan buttoned to your liking.
A thin, dark belt will add a subtle depth of color, while a pair of short and chunky heels will allow you to walk tall on any wet terrain. A simple black umbrella will both protect you from the downpour and double as a chic accessory.
Bring A Bucket (Hat, That Is)
Shop: Blazer | Sweatshirt | Jeans | Hat | Boots
Styling a large brim bucket hat with your rainy day outfit is another chic way to ditch the raincoat and umbrella. Mixing prints is a classic way to infuse a trendy feel into the entire look, so a bucket hat with flair, such as one with a unique print, paired with a graphic sweatshirt will maximize the complex look. Blue denim jeans are wardrobe staples that will create a base that won’t distract from (or add to) the mixed prints above.
Faux leather can withstand the rain and be worn on repeat without wear and tear from rainy weather–that fabric is exactly what makes this trendy oversized blazer a unique spin on a traditional leather jacket. Last, but never least, the perfect rainy day shoes are a pair of water resistant booties with a chunky heel.
Bundle Up Against The Cold
Where there’s rain, there will soon be a chill—at least for most of us. Cold breezes are almost guaranteed on rainy days, leaving us scrambling to find something that keeps us dry and warm. Yet, many of us still struggle to find this perfectly balanced warm outfit. If that’s you, try picking out your coat first and build the look from there.
If it’s really cold, you’ll want to grab your long puffer coat, but your first layer should be a comfortable long-sleeved top. Next, grab your favorite (read: most comfortable) hoodie and layer with baggy overalls for a true fashionista moment. Then, stay completely toasty and dry with rain booties. A layered look like this can be worn anywhere, especially if you’re going to be walking for long periods of time in the misty cool.
Rainy days may seem ominous to some, but they are the perfect days for fashion. These days give you the ideal excuse to play with layers all year long. While you definitely want to base your outfit on whether it'll be a drizzle or a storm, never forget to include your personal style. Don’t just dress for the rain. Dress for yourself in a way that authentically protects you from getting too drenched or cold.