Deciding what to wear in Ireland can be quite a puzzle with many factors to think about, which is why we’ve put together this online article to guide you through it.
The weather is the biggest factor to consider. It can change quite rapidly, so dressing appropriately for the conditions is key. Also, think about where you’re headed, what you’ll be doing, and how much time you’ll spend outside. Of course, you’ll also want to look good and feel confident in your outfit. So, comfort and style should definitely factor into your decision-making process.
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What do Irish People Wear?
In Ireland, we’re not exactly known as a fashion hub, but we still care about our appearance, keeping it laid-back and comfy. Dress codes aren’t really a big deal except for fancy restaurants and some city pubs or clubs.
To handle our unpredictable weather, we like to layer up. Starting with jeans or leggings and a top, adding shirts, hoodies, cardigans, or jumpers, and topping it off with coats, jackets, gloves, scarves, and hats as needed.
One favorite casual wear for Irish ladies is the 4th Arq Fleece. It pairs well with jeans or leggings, giving a snug and stylish vibe. These fleeces come in various lovely colors, keeping you warm without feeling heavy. (Just to clarify, we’re not sponsored by 4th Arq, we just love their fleeces!)
If you’re visiting Ireland, you might be eager to check out the nightlife, whether it’s dining out, hitting the town, or enjoying some traditional music in a pub over a few drinks.
Looking for fashion ideas? Why not browse through some Irish fashion influencers on Instagram or TikTok? Louise Cooney rocks the casual look flawlessly, while Niamh Doherty offers a mix of cute, trendy, and glam styles. And for the guys, Rob Kenny’s wardrobe can give you some cool ideas.
With plenty of Irish fashion influencers online, you won’t struggle to find some inspiration.
The weather of Ireland
As I sit here on a chilly morning in March, I’m enjoying the warmth of a blazing fire while outside, nature is getting ready for a storm. Rain has been pouring down heavily all morning, and the wind is howling loudly.
Yesterday was completely different – it was sunny but freezing cold. The day before yesterday, we had a beautiful layer of snow covering everything. The day before that was sunny but with strong winds and occasional heavy hail and rain. And who knows what tomorrow will bring!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Ireland, what should you pack? What would have been suitable to wear over these past four days? Ireland, being an island, gets all sorts of weather thrown at it, so it’s hard to predict what it will be like.
Even our national weather service, Met Éireann, struggles to give accurate forecasts because the weather here changes so rapidly. So, if you’re checking the forecast for your holiday, it’s likely to be wrong. A good tip is to plan for rain and then take off layers if it’s not needed.
No matter what time of year it is, the weather in Ireland can change suddenly. So, if you’re planning to visit outdoor places, make sure to bring an umbrella, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy waterproof shoes or boots.
Spring Season
During springtime in Ireland, the weather can be quite unpredictable. You’ll often find yourself needing to dress in layers to stay comfortable. This means wearing thick leggings or tights under heavy skirts or dresses, or opting for heavy jeans or trousers paired with warm wool jumpers or heavy shirts. Don’t forget to top it off with a waterproof jacket or coat, as the weather can change quickly.
In March and April, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. While it might get warm enough to just wear jeans or leggings with a t-shirt, it’s also common for temperatures to drop suddenly. So, it’s wise to have hats, scarves, and gloves on hand just in case.
Many tourists come to Ireland in March to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. This usually involves watching the big Saint Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin or attending smaller parades across the country. Since festivities often spill out into the streets and pubs, be prepared for fluctuating weather conditions.
When sightseeing in Ireland, expect to spend a lot of time outdoors and walking. Sturdy, comfortable, waterproof boots are essential for exploring comfortably.
In summary, for spring in Ireland, it’s important to have a warm base layer, possibly your only layer on some days. Add another layer for extra warmth, which you can easily remove if it gets too hot. And always have a waterproof jacket handy, as rain showers are common.
April and May can be tricky months weather-wise, with warm spells interspersed with sudden heavy showers. Waterproof jackets and umbrellas are essential during these months. Layering a breathable cotton t-shirt with a removable jacket will keep you comfortable and dry when the weather changes unexpectedly.
Summer Season
Irish summers are usually pretty sunny and warm, but we do get some rainy days that can stick around for a while. Typically, at the beginning of summer, we get a heatwave, where temperatures can reach the high twenties Celsius, which is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It might not sound scorching compared to other places, but it feels hot for us!
During this warmer weather, it’s great to wear shorts, T-shirts, sandals, dresses, light pants, and skirts. But remember, evenings can cool down, so it’s smart to bring along lightweight cardigans, sweaters, or jackets just in case. If you’re planning to be outdoors and it’s not likely to rain, canvas shoes like Converse are comfy. But if the weather’s uncertain, waterproof sneakers might be better. For a more dressed-up look on warm days or nights, ballet flats are a good option.
Summer is the perfect time to visit Ireland. You can pack a bit lighter, and everything looks so much nicer when the sun’s out! We recommend bringing some warmer clothes too, just in case you hit a rainy spell during your trip. Tights or leggings won’t take up much space in your suitcase, and they can come in handy on cooler summer days. Wide-leg linen or cotton trousers are also ideal for Irish summers, paired with a light T-shirt or tank top and layered with a jacket or sweater.
Autumn Season
Autumn in Ireland can be quite gentle, but it brings along strong winds and plenty of rain.
While it doesn’t get super cold, it does reach that cozy temperature where thick wool sweaters and cardigans come in handy. The days are getting shorter, and evenings might require a cute hat and scarf to stay snug.
The country looks absolutely stunning during the autumn months, with a mix of golden, orange, and red leaves blending with the lush greenery of fields and hills, creating breathtaking views. Autumn is the ideal time for hikes and walking tours in Ireland. It’s not too warm, not too chilly, and the landscape is at its most enchanting.
Autumn is also the perfect time to flaunt those Aran knitwear pieces if you have any or plan to buy some from their place of origin.
Aran sweaters, known as jumpers here, have their roots in the beautiful Aran Islands off the coast of Galway. Originally crafted to keep islanders warm and dry during their farming and fishing endeavors, these sweaters have gained popularity worldwide over the years.
These wool sweaters make a fantastic addition to your wardrobe for cooler weather. They’re water-resistant, breathable, and the air trapped in the wool provides excellent insulation, keeping you cozy in the cold, though wearing one on a hot summer day might not be the best idea.
During this cooler season, opt for warmer and slightly thicker tops to ward off the chill. Light sweaters and hoodies made from breathable yet snug fabrics are perfect.
A chunky cardigan is a comfy choice, great for layering over a long-sleeved top and under a rain jacket for misty days of sightseeing, whether you’re exploring caves, castles, or lakes. And don’t forget those waterproof boots! Warm ankle or calf-length boots not only keep your feet dry but also add a cute touch when paired with a dress and tights in autumn.
Winter Season
Winter in Ireland isn’t usually very cold, that’s what spring does! But it can be chilly, rainy, and windy. If you’re visiting Ireland in winter, you’ll need to prepare for bad weather.
You’ll need a warm waterproof coat and a strong umbrella. If it’s too windy, it’s better to use your hood because the wind can carry your umbrella away! Make sure your coat is long enough to keep your legs dry since the rain can come at you sideways. Waterproof trousers can help too.
Don’t forget scarves, gloves, and hats to keep the rain and wind out. Wear a cozy wool sweater or cardigan with jeans or thick leggings, and waterproof boots to stay warm and dry.
Whether you’re exploring Christmas markets in the city or hiking in the mountains and lakes, waterproof boots and warm clothes are a must.
Don’t worry too much about the weather. Ireland may have crazy weather, but the people are friendly, and the rain keeps the country green and beautiful. Just layer up and enjoy your trip! If you forget your umbrella, you can always buy one here!
