Business Casual
Camel Coat Patent Thigh
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.
What to Wear in Memphis in December
In December, Memphis averages 35–52°F with about 10 rainy days and the Mississippi Valley winter that delivers sustained cold, gray skies, and the occasional ice storm. The Mississippi River's proximity creates a damp, penetrating cold that makes 40°F feel more raw than dry-climate equivalents. Beale Street remains active year-round — an insulating coat and waterproof boots keep the outdoor entertainment corridor accessible through Memphis's mild but wet December.
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 Memphis. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
December in Memphis is the Mississippi Valley at its most atmospheric — 52°F afternoons under overcast skies, 35°F nights, the bare willows along the Mississippi Riverfront in winter silhouette, and Beale Street's neon and blues music continuing through the cold with the stubborn persistence that characterizes Southern culture's outdoor entertainment tradition. The river humidity amplifies the cold in December in a way that makes proper layering more important than the mild temperature reading suggests. Beale Street in December is a different experience from the humid summer nights — cooler, quieter, and genuinely more accessible for anyone who finds summer's heat oppressive. The outdoor portions between clubs and restaurants require a real coat rather than a light jacket, and the cobblestone and pavement surface on Beale is navigable in flat, comfortable winter boots. The indoor clubs warm up quickly once you're inside, creating the familiar indoor-outdoor layering dynamic. The Mississippi Riverfront walkway is exposed to cold river wind in December, making it the coldest outdoor environment in Memphis — the same wind that provides welcome summer relief becomes a cold amplifier when combined with December's temperatures. Sun Studio and Cooper-Young neighborhood's flat walkable blocks are more protected and comfortable for December exploring. About 10 rainy days in December arrive from the frontal systems that move through the Mississippi Valley in winter — a waterproof outer layer handles the rain events efficiently. Ice storms, while not frequent, occur when the familiar Southern winter pattern of rain-then-freeze arrives. Memphis has limited deicing capacity, making ice events more impactful than northern equivalents.
Curated Looks
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.
Chic
Camel Coat Maxi Combat
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.
Cozy
Hoodie Under the Parka
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.
Cute
Lilac Vest Cream Stack
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.
Formal
Grey Coat Formal Rain
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.
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.
Other Months in Memphis
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Memphis in December?+
Wear warm, waterproof layers in Memphis in December — temperatures range from 35°F to 52°F with 10 rainy days and Mississippi River humidity that makes the cold feel more raw than dry equivalents. A proper waterproof insulated coat and boots with grip handle both the sustained December rain and the occasional ice event. Memphis's bold aesthetic translates to expressive winter layers: a statement coat, warm knitwear, and flat boots.
Is December a good time to visit Memphis?+
December in Memphis is excellent for the city's music and food culture in comfortable, less-crowded conditions. Beale Street, Sun Studio, and the barbecue scene are all active year-round. The cooler temperatures make December walking more pleasant than summer's heat and humidity. Pack for 35–52°F with rain and occasional ice risk — the reward is an authentic Memphis experience without the tourist peaks of spring and summer.
What shoes are best for Memphis in December?+
Waterproof flat boots with good traction are the best footwear for Memphis in December. Ice events coat Memphis streets and Beale Street's pavement when rain precedes a cold front — grip is essential in these conditions. The flat terrain of Beale Street and Cooper-Young handles most waterproof boot options comfortably on dry December days.
How cold does it get in Memphis in December?+
Memphis averages a high of 52°F and a low of 35°F in December, with about 10 rainy days. Mississippi River humidity makes the cold feel more penetrating than the temperature alone suggests. Ice storms occur occasionally when Southern winter frontal patterns deliver rain followed by a rapid temperature drop. January is the coldest month; December is fully in winter territory.
What should I pack for Memphis in December?+
Pack a waterproof insulated coat, warm layers, waterproof boots with grip, and a compact umbrella for the frequent rain. Memphis's bold music-scene culture rewards expressive winter dressing: a statement outer layer, warm knit accessories in vivid colors, and flat comfortable boots that handle Beale Street in any December weather condition.