Image: WhoWhatWear UK
Hi friends— happy Monday!
One thing that really surprised me when I moved to Virginia was that I thought the weather would be milder. I was surprised to find that April showers come in just as quickly as in Florida— and just as strongly! One minute the sky is blue and the sun is shining, and the next it’s dark and foreboding with thunder rumbling in the distance.
While Florida is known as the Sunshine State, it’s notorious for having more rainy weather than expected. Pair the rain and humidity with the warm temperatures (usually in the high 70s/80s by April) and any sense of dressing fashionably on those days tends to rush out the window…and I always overestimate my ability to dress well in the rain, ha!
Recently, I was meant to get coffee with a girlfriend and knew it was supposed to rain. This kind of weather makes me want to stay inside in my slippers and robe, drinking coffee and browsing the web or watching a movie… not getting dressed, fixing my hair (which will definitely frizz), and making it all work while dodging puddles— but it was so worth it! We tried half a dozen cookies for a proposed cookie bar at her wedding and made it to a local coffee shop (I’ll write up a list of my favorite coffee shops in Richmond soon) before the bottom let out.
While it can be a bit of a hassle getting dressed in inclement weather, here are some of the pieces I like to feel put together from drizzle to downpour:
A waterproof outer layer: The waterproof element is definitely key here— I don’t want to risk it in a regular trench coat if it starts pouring. I have this coat from London Fog (minus the hood) but The Mac Coat from Everlane is great if you want a longer option! Personally, I opt for a classic color for my outer layers (like camel, tan, beige, navy, black) instead of something bolder so that it pairs with more things in my wardrobe— alternatively, it tones down any of my wilder looks!
Images from: Inspiring Wit, styleReport c/o Vogue Mexico, WhoWhatWear
Multi-purpose shoes: One thing I really don’t want is to look like I’m wearing shoes meant for the rain— they’re never comfortable nor flattering, and my feet are either too hot or too cold… so rain boots are a big no-no for me.
If it’s cool enough, I’ll wear boots with a skirt and tights— this pair from Dolce Vita are fun with a 70s vibe; however, most of the time, I opt for my tried and true Rothy’s Point flats (I like wearing an animal print to hide any evidence of if I stepped in a puddle). If it’s a short sprint to where I’m going, or the rain is light, the Rothy’s are a great option, but if there’s a chance of standing water, I’d opt for a boot.
I’ve worn my Rothy’s into the ground… so I know I’m due for an upgrade, but I can’t bear to part with them!
A short bottom layer: While I’m a cropped denim fan all year round, it’s especially handy when it rains! You’ll never have to worry about the bottoms of your jeans getting wet (unless you step into a very deep puddle)!
I wear my AG Isabelles all the time… how fun is this hem!? But if you like a higher rise, these from Everlane are a good alternative and a little wider in the leg!
If you don’t like jeans or they’re too casual for your workplace/event/brunch, try a skirt or midi dress!
Images: Pinterest, Pinterest, Poppy Almond
I haven’t made the transition to loafers from pointed flats, but I love this for a throw-on-and-go look!
A top that hides water droplets: One of the worst parts of an unexpected drizzle (or downpour) is when your clothes show it. I’m a huge fan of patterns on rainy days. Having a pattern in your rainy-day mix will make a huge difference in how put together you’ll feel when the skies open up. Think of it as your camouflage— except the pattern hides rain, not YOU!
Images: Sophia Rosemary, Pinterest, Pinterest
An all-purpose bag: I’ve had my Longchamp Le Pliage (knock-off) since 2016 and it’s still going strong! This isn’t the one I have (it’s no longer available), but this is very similar and I love the khaki green for warmer months.
Maybe it’s wrong to love a knock-off as much as I do, but I tried the Le Pliage and was baffled that it wasn’t double-lined like my Amazon bag. The straps definitely felt better quality on the Longchamp, but otherwise, I prefer my Amazon bag.
I have the bag in black and it’s such a classic for work, school, and errands… truly the MVP!
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve been on the hunt for a new crossbody bag too… more to come on that topic!
I’d love to hear in the comments what you reach for on a rainy day— I have yet to master the dressing in the rain science, so let’s share ideas!
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