Rainy days aren't just bad for hair (mine hangs limp and straight), but for our outfits too. I can't even count the number of times my soaked jeans stuck to my legs and my feet squished cold and wet in my shoes because I defiantly wore flats instead of rain boots. But through trail and error, I have finally decoded exactly what to wear when it rains, like swapping jeans for dresses and adding a bright raincoat to bring a little cheer to a rather dreary day. And, of course, a sturdy umbrella. Let these five rainy-day outfits inspire your look the next time it pours, and shop similar pieces, ahead.
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Layer a Bright Raincoat Over a Blazer
Bat away any rainy day blues with a colorful waterproof coat. Pink is a bold option, but also fun and stylishly feminine. As for what to wear underneath? If you’re on your way to work, a blazer, jeans (slacks, if your company’s dress code is more stringent), and a pair of comfy sneakers will do the trick. Should there be a downpour rather than a drizzle, skip the sneakers in favor of heavy-duty waterproof boots.
The only thing more annoying than rain when you're having a good hair day is a torrential downpour that completely drenches your jeans. Because sitting at your desk in bottoms still dripping water isn't pleasant or comfortable, I prefer to wear dresses (or light-weight leggings that dry rather quickly). Here's a foolproof rainy-day outfit: a raincoat, a T-shirt dress, and sporty sneakers.
No raincoat, no problem. Clear bubble umbrellas are the next best water-repellent accessory, providing coverage while allowing you to see the path in front of you. Opt for a cute long trench—like this street style star's—and leave it unbuttoned to show off your top, then wear with jeans and patent waterproof ankle boots. This look will come in handy when you're caught in the rain during Fashion Week.
When it rains, and getting dressed seems harder than usual, it's easy to default to an all-black outfit. Keep your look from fully succumbing to gloominess with a rainbow of accessories. This street style star gave her navy and black outfit life with a bright red top-handle satchel. Before you rush out the door, take a minute or two to throw on floral earrings or a colored gemstone ring to prove the weather won't bring down your style.
You probably witnessed this trick on every fashion girl last season: layer two coats (a trench and a see-through rain jacket) on top of each other. It's an effortless look that gives you instant street style cred. I, for one, am not over this layering hack and will continue wearing it throughout the year.
