How To Dress in Colorado This Summer
Visiting Colorado this summer and wondering what to pack? Or are you new in town and want to refresh your closet? Here are a few outfits you must have this summer in Colorado.
Obviously what you wear in Colorado depends on where you’re at in the state and what you’re doing. This brief list identifies an outfit for almost every occasion and captures the essence of Colorado style. Since Colorado is an outdoor adventure haven, most of the outfit ideas here are geared towards outdoor activities.
*No affiliate links - I’m not trying to sell you anything, just giving my honest opinion*
Colorado Weather
There’s a saying, “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado, just wait 20 minutes.” Basically, the weather can fluctuate rapidly. It could be the most perfect summer day, but then a thunderstorm rolls in around noon, rains for 20 minutes, then it’s sunny again. Always be prepared for the weather to change. Bring that rain jacket, dress in layers, and check the forecast any time you plan to be outdoors for an extended period.
In the summer, it can get hot. Very hot. On top of that, the UV rays are strong here. You’ll want to wear clothing that can protect you from the sun and the heat, especially if you plan on being outside all day.
A few Tips:
Always have a hat with you
Dress in layers
Wear wicking material, avoid cotton when hiking
Protect yourself from the sun
Outfit #1: Camping and easy day hike outfit
This outfit is probably as “Colorado” as it gets. These Patagonia Barely Baggies shorts are my absolute favorite short ever! They’re the perfect length, lightweight, breathable, and quick drying. Not to mention that earthy tone red is one of my favorite colors to wear. These shorts are perfect for hiking, camping, and being around the water, although they are not technically swim shorts. They’re so versatile and are a must in my opinion for Colorado outdoorsy activities.
I’d also like to highlight the sun hoodie in this outfit. This wicking outer layer protects you from Colorado’s intense sun without getting over heated. It absorbs sweat and water very quickly, so you don’t feel damp at all. This basic sun hoodie was purchased at REI.
Find some comfortable sandals for footwear this summer. They’re so much more comfortable than sneakers in the hotter months.
Outfit #2: The classic crunchy granola girl outfit
I love this outfit because it can be worn anywhere! The crunchy look is part of Colorado identity, at least that’s how it is in Golden.
Like I mentioned above, dressing in layers is key because it can be cool during the early and late hours of the day, but blazing hot in the afternoon. The flannel comes in clutch in the morning and evening, and the Beyond Yoga tank (which I see everywhere) is super light and comfortable when it gets hot. I love this classic Beyond Yoga racerback cropped tank because it has a built-in shelf bra, so no need to wear a bra underneath.
And then you can’t go wrong with some classic Birkenstocks (or fake birks in my case lol) and some high-waisted jean shorts with an even hem. Complete the look with your favorite baseball cap.
Outfit #3: The campfire fit
Nights get cold in Colorado at any time of the year, especially if you’re in the mountains. If you’re vacationing in a mountain town or camping in the Rockies, warm layers are a must. This is why I always bring my fleece lined Patagonia Better Sweater with me every time I head to the mountains. I even needed it in Golden last night, since I stayed out late to watch the 4th of July fireworks. Pair with some fuzzy socks and a beanie.
Fun fact: I bought this Patagonia sweater used for $15 on Poshmark (mind you this is a $160 sweater new)!! Buy secondhand and save a ton of money.
Don’t be afraid to get bold with colors or mix and match, it is Colorful Colorado after all!
Outfit #4: The adventure fit
You can’t fully experience Colorado without hitting the trails. Stay cool with a wicking, sleeveless tank top, like Lululemon’s Invigorate tank. I love this top because it has a built-in bra, is lightweight, supportive and has a clean, sporty look. Can easily layer with a rain jacket, fleece, or sun hoodie to protect yourself from the sun or temperamental weather.
Make sure you wear durable pants that are also weather resistant and won’t tear. I made the mistake of wearing leggings on a hike one time and they ripped when I climbed over a log that was in the middle of the trail. They also weren’t water resistant, so I would have gotten soaked if it rained.
Depending on the hike, you can choose between wearing a hiking boot or trail running shoe. In Colorado, I’ve primarily used trail running shoes because the terrain has been more so dirt and less rocky than the trails I’m used to hiking out east. I wear hiking boots if I know the trail is going to be uneven and I need extra ankle support or if there’s a water crossing and I need my waterproof hiking boots. Regardless of the style of shoe, just make sure it can grip outdoor surfaces to prevent slipping.
Outfit #5: The farmers market & running errands outfit
I’m grouping these two together because they’re the same vibe. I like both of these outfits because they’re super cute and summery without putting a whole lot of effort in. These are perfect for going to the local farmers market or the grocery store.
I love wearing linen cotton blend shorts because they feel so light and airy. If it’s forecasted to be over 90, I’m wearing these shorts over denim. Find a cute canvas tote bag, sunglasses, or hat to complete the look.
I hope this helps you decide what to wear before you head out the door this summer!
