Sporty
Cargo Rain Jacket
A black rain jacket over an oversized graphic tee and olive cargo trousers handles mild rain practically. White lace-up booties finish the look with enough contrast to lift the palette.
What to Wear in New Orleans in December
December in New Orleans is mild and variable, with highs averaging 65°F and lows around 47°F — cool enough for a proper coat but rarely cold enough for heavy insulation. A mid-weight jacket or wool coat layers well over sweaters for walking the French Quarter or Magazine Street; sturdy flats or boots handle the uneven brick sidewalks of the Garden District. Rain is possible on about 9 days, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What to wear
top / Long-Sleeve Top
fitted long-sleeve
lightweight layer for mild temps
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 New Orleans. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
New Orleans in December trades the oppressive summer heat for something far more manageable — cool afternoons in the mid-60s, crisp mornings near 47°F, and the city's characteristic humid air without the weight. The French Quarter's iron-lace balconies draped with twinkling lights, the Christmas bonfires along the River Road, and the holiday events at Preservation Hall and the Warehouse District make this a genuinely atmospheric month to visit. Rain is common — about 9 days — and often comes as warm, Gulf-influenced showers rather than cold downpours. The local style tendency in December leans casually festive: midi boots over dark jeans, a structured blazer or belted wool coat, and a statement scarf. The brick sidewalks and cobblestones of the French Quarter and Garden District demand thoughtful footwear — high stilettos are a persistent trap for visitors. A waterproof option in the shoe rotation is practical given the frequency of showers. Layering is key; a 20°F swing between morning and afternoon is common.
Curated Looks
Formal
Grey Coat Wide-Leg
A grey longline coat over an ivory blouse and black wide-leg trousers handles mild rain without losing formal intent. Black Chelsea boots and a mini bag keep it focused.
Cozy
Parka Cable Knit Mules
A black longline parka over a cable knit sweater in mild rain keeps warmth without overdressing. Black mule heels under leggings are an unexpected and intentional detail.
Business Casual
Navy Trench and Shorts
A navy trench coat over khaki bermuda shorts and a blue linen blouse works between seasons on a mild rainy day. Black pointed-toe heels sharpen what could easily be too casual.
Chic
Cream Puffer Wide-Leg
A cream oversized puffer over a navy striped cardigan and wide-leg ivory linen trousers handles mild rain with a considered mix of textures. Black ballet flats are the restrained finish.
Casual
Olive Anorak Trousers
An olive anorak handles mild rain without abandoning the polish of wide-leg navy trousers underneath. The crossbody stays tucked and close.
Cute
Blush Jacket Knit Skirt
A blush cropped jacket over a grey cardigan and black sweater mini skirt handles mild rain with charm. A black bucket bag and ankle boots keep the proportions balanced.
Packing List
What to Pack for New Orleans in December →
Other Months in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in New Orleans in December?+
A mid-weight coat — wool, a quilted jacket, or a trench — handles the range from cool mornings near 47°F to mild afternoons in the mid-60s. Layer a sweater or long-sleeve top underneath for flexibility. Sturdy ankle boots or waterproof flats navigate the uneven brick and cobblestone sidewalks of the French Quarter and Garden District without issue. An umbrella is worth having for the frequent, brief Gulf showers.
Is December a good time to visit New Orleans?+
December is one of the most pleasant months to visit New Orleans. The suffocating summer heat and peak Mardi Gras crowds are both absent, and the city's holiday character — bonfires along the River Road, carolers in Jackson Square, and the Celebration in the Oaks at City Park — is genuinely distinctive. Hotel rates are lower than February or Jazz Fest season. The main drawback is rainfall, which can interrupt outdoor plans.
What shoes are best for New Orleans in December?+
Ankle boots with a flat or low block heel are the most practical choice — they handle the irregular flagstone sidewalks of the French Quarter and the brick streets of the Garden District without the ankle hazard of stilettos. Waterproof leather or treated suede is worth the investment given the frequent showers. If you plan to spend time at City Park or along the Riverwalk, a comfortable waterproof sneaker is an equally valid option.
How cold does it get in New Orleans in December?+
Daytime highs average 65°F, making afternoons genuinely pleasant for walking. Overnight lows drop to around 47°F, which feels sharper given the city's humidity. Occasional cold fronts from the north can push temperatures into the 30s for a day or two, but these rarely last. Locals layer for the morning chill and remove layers through the afternoon — it's the most practical approach.
What should I pack for New Orleans in December?+
Pack a mid-weight coat, versatile layering pieces (sweaters, cardigans, long-sleeve tops), one warmer layer for potential cold fronts, sturdy boots or waterproof flats, and a compact umbrella. Avoid packing summer-only items — the evenings get cool enough that shorts feel uncomfortable after dark. A scarf doubles as both a practical warm layer and an accessory for the city's festive December atmosphere.