Sporty
Rain Jacket Zip Layer
A black rain jacket over a white zip-up hoodie is the light-rain sporty combination that stays clean in colour. Fleece leggings and Chelsea boots handle the rest.
What to Wear in London in December
For a festive trip to London in December, pack your warmest winter clothes, as temperatures range from 37°F to 46°F. A waterproof, insulated coat, hat, and gloves are crucial for enjoying the Christmas markets and lights, especially in open spaces like Hyde Park which can be windy and cold.
Also packing for this trip?
Full December packing list for London →
Checklist of clothes, shoes, and gear — separate from these outfit ideas.
Plan your stay
Hotels in London
Compare prices across top booking sites for Dec 1–4.
Dates prefilled: Dec 1–42 guests
See hotels in LondonPowered by Hotellook · prices from Booking.com, Agoda, and more
What to wear
top / Long-Sleeve Top
fitted long-sleeve
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
Umbrella
Based on typical December conditions in London. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
December transforms London into a magical winter wonderland, with dazzling Christmas lights on Regent Street, festive markets, and ice rinks popping up across the city. The atmosphere is cheerful and celebratory, despite the cold, dark, and damp weather. It's a month for sipping mulled wine, Christmas shopping, and enjoying the cozy warmth of London's historic pubs. While the festive spirit is high, the weather demands serious preparation. The primary challenge for visitors is staying warm and dry while spending time outdoors at attractions like Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park or the South Bank Christmas Market. The cold, damp air can be penetrating, so a high-quality waterproof and insulated coat is the single most important item you can pack.
Curated Looks
Cute
Lilac Vest Cream Stack
Flatters tall framesFlatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A pastel lilac vest over a cream cardigan and wide-leg sweatpants reads softly in light rain. Black Chelsea boots are the only contrast in this muted palette.
Casual
The Rust Shacket
A rust plaid shacket works as jacket and top layer in light rain. Suede knee-high boots and a cream maxi skirt carry the look when the weather clears.
Cozy
Hoodie Under the Parka
Flatters long-torso frames
A black longline parka over an oversized hoodie and fleece-lined leggings handles everything light rain brings. Tan Chelsea boots and a grey scarf soften the all-black stack.
Formal
Grey Coat Formal Rain
Flatters long-torso frames
A grey longline coat over camel trousers and a black turtleneck holds formal presence through light rain. The black mini shoulder bag keeps what needs carrying close.
Business Casual
Camel Coat Patent Thigh
Flatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A camel coat over dark jeans and a black crewneck gains editorial edge from patent leather thigh-high boots in light rain. A canvas tote keeps the rest functional.
Chic
Camel Coat Maxi Combat
Flatters tall framesFlatters long-torso frames
A camel coat over a black turtleneck and cream maxi skirt cuts a strong silhouette in light rain. Black combat boots under the skirt are the editorial surprise that makes it.
Other Months in London
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in London in December?+
Bundle up in your warmest winter attire. This means a thermal base layer, a thick sweater (wool or fleece), and a heavy, waterproof, and insulated winter coat. A warm hat, scarf, and gloves are absolutely essential for staying comfortable outside.
Is December a good time to visit London?+
If you love the magic of the holiday season, December is an incredible time to visit London. The city is beautifully decorated and full of festive cheer. However, it is very crowded and expensive, so book flights, accommodation, and event tickets far in advance.
What shoes should I wear in London in December?+
Warm, waterproof, and comfortable boots are the only sensible choice for December. They will protect your feet from the cold, wet pavements and provide the comfort needed for walking between shops and attractions. Pair them with warm wool or thermal socks.
How cold does London get in December?+
December is one of London's coldest months, with average high temperatures of 46°F and lows dipping to 37°F. It feels consistently cold and damp, and while snow is uncommon, a frosty, freezing morning is a real possibility. Prepare for genuine winter conditions.
What should I pack for London in December?+
Pack your warmest winter gear: thermal layers, wool sweaters, a heavy waterproof coat, and warm trousers. A hat, gloves, and scarf are non-negotiable. Also include waterproof boots, wool socks, and a reliable umbrella to handle the cold and frequent precipitation.
Packing tools
Decide jackets, outfits, shoes, and bag fees for London in December
Free calculators — city and month pre-filled when we know them. No account required. Start with how many outfits, sudoku packing, or bag fees.
Trip
Planning a trip to one city?
One city → typical weather for your month, packing counts that fit your bags, and email your plan.
Outfits
How many outfits for this trip?
Trip length, bag size, and climate → exact tops, bottoms, layers, and outfit combinations.
Jacket
Not sure about a jacket?
City + month → base / mid / shell stack and pack-or-skip verdicts for rain jacket, coat, and thermals.
Shoes
Shoes for this climate?
Climate, activities, and bag size → pair count, primary/backup types, and climate-matched picks.
Bags
Will this trip cost bag fees?
Airline + fare bucket + bags you plan to bring → fit verdicts and typical carry-on / checked fee ranges.
Capsule
Try sudoku packing for this climate?
City + month → climate-ready 3 tops / 3 bottoms / 3 layers you can edit — up to 27 mix-and-match outfits.