This spring break we’re switching it up from our usual tropical vacations to a family trip to the UK—specifically, London and Manchester. This trip was the boys’ big Christmas present, as we’re heading to a couple Premier League games. But we’ll also have tea, visit the West End for a show (Wicked!), and do some other fun activities. So, of course, I’ve had lots of London outfit ideas swirling through my mind!
After lots of thought, (possibly too might thought), I think I’ve finally narrowed it down and decided on what I’ll be wearing during our getaway…or at least for the “big” events! Today, I’m sharing all of my London outfit details, from outerwear and tops to dresses and accessories.
I always find packing lists to be super helpful—both for clothing and for everything else you need to bring when traveling. If you’re looking for even more useful packing lists, be sure to check out these:
- My Travel Capsule Wardrobe
- Travel Essentials for Women
- What to Wear in Europe in the Summertime
- International Travel Checklist
London Spring Vacation
We’ll be visiting London at the end of March and the beginning of April. Weather-wise, the highs are expected to be in the 60s, with lows in the 40s. We spent our last two spring breaks in Nevis, a beautiful tropical island, so this trip will be quite a change! While it feels a bit odd not to be heading somewhere warm, I have no doubt we’ll have just as much fun as always!
London Outfits: Packing Tips
Traveling is something I’m passionate about—I love both experiencing it myself and sharing about it with others. I consider traveling with loved ones to be one of life’s greatest joys. Over time, I’ve put together many posts covering tips and tricks. Since I’m focusing on London outfit ideas today, I’ll just share a few quick tips. However, if you have an upcoming vacation, I highly recommend checking out my personal travel tips as well!
1. Select a color palette.
Anytime I’m planning vacation looks, I like to start by choosing a color palette. This makes it much easier to mix and match pieces and create a variety of outfits. For this trip, I’m packing styles that complement brown tones, including creams, navy, lavender, and shades of green.
2. Shop your closet.
While it’s certainly tempting to order a whole new vacation wardrobe, I always recommend shopping your own closet first. I’m often pleasantly surprised by how many outfits I can create using pieces I already own. After that, you can fill in any gaps and order a few new items to refresh your vacation looks!
3. Plan outfits based on your itinerary.
As with any trip, when planning my London outfits, I started by reviewing our itinerary. This helps me put together looks tailored to each day’s activities. It also allows me to spot any gaps that need filling while preventing me from overpacking more outfits than I’ll actually need.
Just be sure to try everything on before packing your suitcase—this is always a top recommendation!
London Outfit Ideas by Occasion
Okay, now let’s dive into the fun part—London outfit ideas! These are some of the looks I’m planning to wear for our spring break trip. From soccer games to date nights, there’s a little bit of everything, and I’ll be mixing and matching as much as possible!
London Date Night Outfit
JB and I are planning a date night at Gymkhana, an Indian restaurant I’ve been wanting to try for ages, and I’m so excited! This will be our only night out just the two of us, as kids under 16 aren’t allowed at the restaurant during dinner, so we’ll have a sitter for the boys. I do wish they could join us, but I’m sure they’ll be happy to have a relaxed night ordering room service and watching a movie after a busy day.
The dress code at Gymkhana is “smart casual”, so I’m planning to wear this chic chocolate brown set from Julia Amory. I sized up to a small in this set, and I love the fit. I’ll pair it with an Alice Walk Cape, Mignonne Gavigan pearl earrings, and my Margaux Ada heels.
For a purse, I’ll be carrying my little XS mesh Longchamp bag. A trick I love with this bag is placing a scarf inside to keep it from being see-through. It’s a great travel bag since it takes up almost no room in a suitcase! To finish off this London outfit, I’ll add a bold pop of color with this flattering lipstick!
High Tea at The Ritz London
We will be enjoying high tea at The Ritz, which I already know will be such a special family experience. It reminds me of when we went to The Polo Bar in NYC—Wes took one look around and said, “Whoa! This is fancy!” The boys are good sports about dressing up, and I think it’s a great way for them to practice good etiquette.
The dress code for high tea at The Ritz London is elegant and refined. I plan to wear this chic high-neck dress, this fur-collar coat, and my low brown heels once again.
London Outfit for Seeing Wicked on the West End
The last time we took the boys to NYC we attended The Lion King. It was their first Broadway show, and they loved it! So I’m very excited to take them to Wicked on London’s West End.
This hot pink Dupioni dress has a very Wicked vibe, so I’ll be packing it for the occasion. To fight the chill, I’ll layer a cashmere wrap and my fur-collar coat, then complete the look with these crystal-embellished mesh flats.
Game at Etihad Stadium Outfit
We will be attending a game at Etihad Stadium, and I was surprised to discover there’s actually a dress code! For anyone over the age of 12, the requirement is “smart casual”—so no tracksuits!
For this London outfit, I plan to wear my favorite pair of under $50 jeans, this cashmere-silk blend tee layered over this classic turtleneck, these neutral sneakers, this warm puffer jacket, this chic balaclava for a pop of red to cheer on Arsenal!
Outfit for a Manchester City Game
Attending a Manchester City game is the reason we booked this trip in the first place! The boys are so excited—and honestly, so am I! We’re all looking forward to watching Erling Haaland and the rest of the team play in person.
Manchester is a bit further north, so it may be chillier. I’m planning to wear a blue cashmere turtleneck, these affordable jeans, this neutral puffer, and these comfy sneakers.
London Outfit for a Day Spent Exploring
In between all of our planned activities, we’ll also be spending some time exploring the city. This twill skirt paired with a spring vest layered over a classic button-down is one London outfit I plan to wear for sightseeing. Once again, I’ll complete the look with my brown heels, (yes, they’re comfy enough to walk around in!) and this timeless coat.
More Pieces I’ll Be Packing
As I just mentioned, there will be some downtime between activities, and there are also a few plans we haven’t yet set in stone. Therefore, there are a few additional clothing and accessory items that I plan to pack. While I’m still mapping out the specifics, these are some pieces that have the potential of making their way into my suitcase!
Chic Cream Top
I love the unique details and fit of this top. It’s one that can easily be dressed up or down, providing a variety of London outfit options!
Jeans
I’ll be packing a couple pairs of denim. I really love this style from Rolla’s and my FRAME Palazzo jeans. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, I also own and love these Target ankle jeans. I have them in two neutral colors—ivory and olive. At under $25, they’re amazing quality for the price!
Classic Trench Coat
A trench is an essential part of any London outfit, no matter the time of the year. I love the color of this Rhone coat and the fact that the tie-waist belt is removable. Bonus…it’s also waterproof!
Belt
These days, if there are belt loops, I’m wearing a belt. I really love this ivory and gold one from Déhanche. But for this trip, I’ll be taking along this similar, but more affordable belt from J.Crew.
Cashmere Cardigan
I’ll be bringing one or two pretty cashmere cardigans. No matter the predicted weather, I almost always pack a cardigan for vacations to either throw over a dress or a top or just to wrap around my neck. I’m always especially thankful to have one in chilly restaurants!
I love this Lilly of the Valley embroidered sweater from Doen. Another possibility is this simple cashmere cardigan from Tuckernuck, which has been a trusty favorite I’ve worn numerous times over the past year.
Timeless Trousers
For times when I need a London outfit that is a bit dressier than jeans, I plan to pack a nice pair of trousers. I love this pleated wide-leg style!
Pima Pajamas
I love bringing the bundle of my favorite pajamas when traveling. You never know how hot or cold your accommodation might be, so it’s nice to have both long and short options. Plus, this gorgeous floral print reminds me of the UK in bloom in the springtime!
Denim Top
Lately, I’ve been loving the look of a denim top. It’s such a fun piece to play around with and style! This dark denim button-down has been a recent favorite. Just the other night I wore it layered on top of a turtleneck!
Neutral Skirt
A neutral skirt is another great piece that can lend itself to many different outfits. I love the timeless color and design of this one. It could easily be paired with a simple tee and sandals for a day spend touring and then dressed up with a blouse and heels for dinner!
Raincoat
A raincoat is a must in London, especially in the spring. This brown gingham rain jacket is adorable! If you’re looking for something super durable, I wore this Barbour waterproof parka a lot last summer in Ireland. With the weather this time of the year, it’s always a good idea to have a heavy-duty one, just in case.
What to Wear in London
If you have an upcoming UK trip, I hope these London outfit ideas provide some inspiration. Honestly, even if you don’t have any travel plans, these looks would make great spring outfits in general!
For more travel and fashion inspiration, be sure to check out these posts:
