Cozy
Cable Knit and Mules
A grey cable knit with fleece-lined leggings and black mules in warmer weather is cozy without capitulating to the temperature. A knit beanie on a warm-clear day feels like a choice.
What to Wear in San Francisco
Thursday, June 18
66°F / 56°FPartly Cloudy1% rain17 mph wind
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San Francisco's famously counterintuitive climate peaks in September — summer months are actually the city's foggiest and coldest stretch, when 58°F overcast mornings surprise visitors expecting California sunshine. Bay wind at Fisherman's Wharf and the Embarcadero makes even 60°F feel like 48°F, and the Embarcadero is one of the windiest stretches in the city. Steep hill terrain throughout makes flat-soled or low-heeled footwear not a suggestion but a genuine necessity for navigating the city.
What to wear
Based on 66°F and partly cloudy
top / Short-Sleeve Top
classic tee
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Sneakers
classic sneakers
cushioned for all-day city walking
Consider bringing:
Sunglasses
San Francisco's climate is famously unique and often surprising, even to seasoned travelers. While many assume California means endless sunshine, this city is renowned for its persistent fog, cool temperatures, and distinct microclimates. Summers here are remarkably mild, often characterized by overcast mornings and brisk evenings, rarely seeing heat waves. Winters are relatively mild and wet, bringing the majority of the city's annual rainfall without the expectation of snow. Due to these rapid shifts—from a sunny afternoon to a foggy, wind-whipped evening—layering is not just a suggestion, but a fundamental aspect of local style. San Franciscans favor practical, comfortable, and well-constructed clothing that can adapt on the fly. Expect to see a blend of casual chic and outdoor readiness, with stylish outerwear, quality denim, and comfortable shoes being staples. The city's fashion leans towards understated cool and functionality, prioritizing warmth and versatility to navigate its ever-changing weather patterns.
Curated Looks
Business Casual
Mauve Happy Hour
At 65–74°F the mauve tie-front cropped linen shirt earns its place over ivory wide-leg linen trousers. Ivory pointed-toe mules and aviator sunglasses make the commute feel like an editorial moment.
Casual
Bright, Blue, and Breezy
Embrace the 65–74°F sunny weather with a breathable linen shirt, classy bermuda shorts, and espadrilles. Pair it with a class bucket bag for that summer ready look.
Chic
White Shirt Wide-Leg
A white oversized button-down with ivory wide-leg linen trousers and a brown woven belt is the warm-clear uniform for someone who doesn't overthink it. Black mule heels are the one decisive choice.
Sporty
Biker Shorts Graphic Tee
A black graphic tee over biker shorts with mule heels is the warm-day sporty look that works from coffee to casual. The olive baseball cap adds a directional touch.
Formal
Ivory and Pleated Maxi
An ivory silk-look blouse tucked into a black pleated maxi skirt is the warm-clear formal look with evening flexibility. Espadrilles and a black mini bag make it daytime without losing the occasion feel.
Cute
Floral Skirt and Mules
A floral pleated midi skirt with a white fitted tank and black mules reads warm-day dressed-up without veering formal. A crochet bucket hat shifts the mood back to weekend.
Don't forget:
SunglassesScarf
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to wear in San Francisco in winter?+
San Francisco winters are mild and wet, not cold with snow. Focus on layers: warm sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and a waterproof or water-resistant jacket are essential. Comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots will also be very useful for navigating rainy days and hills.
What to wear in San Francisco in summer?+
Contrary to typical summer expectations, San Francisco summers are cool, foggy, and often breezy, especially near the coast. Do not pack for hot weather; instead, bring sweaters, light jackets, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Layering is crucial as temperatures can fluctuate significantly from morning to afternoon and into the evening.
Is San Francisco cold?+
San Francisco is rarely 'cold' in the snowy or freezing sense, but it is consistently cool and can feel chilly year-round, especially with the wind and fog. Summers are particularly cool compared to other parts of California. Always be prepared for temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, even on sunny days, and bring layers.
What is the weather like in San Francisco?+
San Francisco weather is characterized by mild temperatures year-round, cool and often foggy summers, and mild, wet winters. The city experiences significant microclimates, meaning one neighborhood can be sunny while another is shrouded in mist. Expect frequent changes in temperature and atmospheric conditions throughout the day, making layering essential for comfort.
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