Q&A: What to Wear in Amsterdam

July 29th, 2009

Q: I’m heading to Amsterdam with my husband and 8 month old little girl this August. I need some advice on what to pack. I want to be stylish, yet still be comfortable and warm if temperature is cool. I will need practical, everyday outfits as well one or two dressy options.

What to Wear in Amsterdam
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by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant

A: Amsterdam will be wonderful in August.  Temperatures will be moderate - expect temps between the mid 50s at night and the 70s (and maybe 80s) during the day.  The excellent weather, however, will bring out the crowds, so expect tons of events and festivals and the visitors to match.

Style wise, Amsterdam is a creative city.  The city is known for liberalism and tolerance, and it’s certainly reflected in the clothing.  If you have an itch to explore an edgier side to your personal style, you can scratch that itch in Amsterdam.  You can get your inspiration from Amsterdam street style blog Dam Style.

As you have a one year old traveling with you, you will want to be comfortable but fashionable.  The ideal for you will be a mix of form and function.  Here’s what you’ll want to pack for your trip to Amsterdam:

Tops: Pack a variety of tee shirts (especially ones that don’t take themselves too seriously), along with an arty looking blouse or two.

Bottoms:  Shorts should be appropriate for daytime sightseeing.  We like tailored styles that hit at about the knee, but whatever style flatters your legs is going to be your best bet.  If you dare, skinny jeans are great for the eclectic vibe of the city (but straight jeans are perfectly fine).  Simple skirts will also work, and they’re easier to wear. 

Sweaters: A couple of lightweight sweaters, especially ones with interesting textures and patterns, will do the trick.

Outerwear: A single lightweight jacket will work for your trip to Amsterdam.

Dresses:  Try a couple of vintage-y dresses that work during the daytime - but can be dressed up for evening with the right shoes and jewelry.

Accessories:  Comfortable walking shoes, a nice dressy pair of shoes for nighttime, some fun jewelry, a hat and sunglasses will round out your travel wardrobe.  Not to mention a good backpack or diaper bag to hold your necessities - and the baby gear.

Last thoughts?  Pack a light umbrella just in case of summer showers.  And don’t forget bug spray, since Amsterdam is close to the water.

Have a great tip about what to wear in Amsterdam? Share it with us in the comments!

Entry Filed under: Q&A,Women,Women's

4 Comments

  • 1. Amanda  |  July 30th, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Any idea where I can get a sweater like that? That one is mostly sold out. Shipping to the US would be heinous too.

  • 2. Fran21  |  August 3rd, 2009 at 9:35 am

    I can’t get over how much I love that sweater! I actually like the entire outfit. Polyvore is the best!

  • 3. gWerner  |  August 3rd, 2009 at 12:34 pm

    Love Amsterdam! Because it is easy to walk (or bike!) everywhere, comfortable shoes are a must. Check this out for more great packing advice: http://www.what2wearwhere.com/ListItems.aspx?pt=Event&q=51#

  • 4. Fernie  |  July 23rd, 2010 at 5:52 am

    Buy an umbrella, i have been there 6 times (two times in august) and it always rain a little!


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