Chic
Burgundy and Suede Boots
Flatters smaller busts
A burgundy quilted jacket and matching turtleneck over a cream maxi skirt in light snow is a considered tonal look. Brown suede knee-high boots under the skirt add the textural detail.
What to Wear in Pittsburgh in December
In December, wear a heavy, insulated winter coat, thermal layers, and waterproof boots for cold temperatures between 25°F and 39°F. This gear is essential for staying warm while enjoying outdoor festivities like the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in Market Square.
Also packing for this trip?
Full December packing list for Pittsburgh →
Checklist of clothes, shoes, and gear — separate from these outfit ideas.
Plan your stay
Hotels in Pittsburgh
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Dates prefilled: Dec 1–42 guests
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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 / Heavy Coat
puffer coat
insulated for sub-freezing temps
top / Sweater
crew neck
mid-layer warmth between base and outer coat
fleece zip-up if it gets colder
Consider bringing:
GlovesScarfBeanie
Based on typical December conditions in Pittsburgh. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
December ushers in the full force of winter in Pittsburgh, with cold temperatures, gray skies, and the increasing likelihood of snow. The city transforms into a festive holiday hub, with the ice rink at PPG Place bustling with skaters and Market Square filled with the charming wooden stalls of a European-style Christmas market. The chill in the air is part of the festive atmosphere. Navigating the city can become a challenge in December. A significant snowfall can make driving and walking on Pittsburgh's steep hills extremely difficult, a major pain point for visitors unfamiliar with the terrain. The cold is pervasive, requiring serious winter gear to comfortably enjoy any outdoor attractions, from taking in the city lights from the Duquesne Incline to walking across the Smithfield Street Bridge.
Curated Looks
Business Casual
Camel Over Knee-High
Flatters long-torso frames
A camel coat over dark indigo ankle jeans with black knee-high boots adds coverage in light snow. The cream leather tote keeps it office-ready.
Cute
Faux Fur and Stripes
Flatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A camel faux fur coat over a striped long-sleeve and cream wide-leg sweatpants makes light snow feel considered. Suede knee-high boots make the casual bottom half look deliberate.
Casual
The Olive Vest Stack
Flatters petite framesFlatters smaller busts
An olive puffer vest over a cream sweatshirt covers light snow with just enough layering. Dark indigo jeans and Chelsea boots keep the bottom half clean.
Cozy
Parka and Cable Knit
Flatters long-torso framesFlatters smaller busts
A black longline parka with a grey cable knit sweater for light snow — cozy layering that doesn't look shapeless. Combat boots and a grey scarf are the finishing details.
Other Months in Pittsburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Pittsburgh in December?+
Dress in your warmest winter attire. This means a heavy, insulated coat, thermal or fleece-lined layers, winter pants, and accessories like a warm hat, a thick scarf, and insulated gloves. Layering is key to staying warm both outdoors and in heated indoor spaces.
Is December a good time to visit Pittsburgh?+
December is a magical time to visit if you love the holiday season and a classic cold-weather atmosphere. The city is beautifully decorated and full of festive events. However, you must be prepared for cold temperatures and potential snow.
What shoes should I wear in Pittsburgh in December?+
Insulated, waterproof winter boots with excellent grip are essential for December. They will keep your feet warm and dry and help you navigate potentially icy or snowy sidewalks and hills safely.
How cold does Pittsburgh get in December?+
December is very cold. The average high temperature is 39°F, and the average low drops to 25°F. Temperatures are consistently below freezing at night, and daytime highs often don't climb far above that mark.
What should I pack for Pittsburgh in December?+
Pack your heaviest winter coat, thermal underwear, wool sweaters, and warm pants. Don't forget multiple pairs of warm, thick socks (like wool), a good hat that covers your ears, a scarf, and waterproof gloves. Lip balm is also a good idea for the cold, dry air.
Packing tools
Decide jackets, outfits, shoes, and bag fees for Pittsburgh in December
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Trip
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Trip length, bag size, and climate → exact tops, bottoms, layers, and outfit combinations.
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Capsule
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City + month → climate-ready 3 tops / 3 bottoms / 3 layers you can edit — up to 27 mix-and-match outfits.