A comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect wine tasting attire, with outfit ideas for spring, summer, fall, and winter in California wine country.
As a self-proclaimed wine country addict and WSET 2 Distinction holder, I’ve got the wine tasting outfits down to a science. I’ve learned from my past fashion faux pas (like that time I wore a tiny dress and high heels to Napa in February!), and I’m here to help you avoid them.
In this post, I’m sharing 30+ seasonal wine tasting outfit ideas, along with tips on what to wear (and what not to wear) to ensure you’re both stylish and comfortable.
Understanding Wine Country Attire
While wineries in California don’t have a strict dress code, it’s generally expected that you’ll dress nicely. Think “wine country casual” – a step up from your everyday wear, but not as formal as a wedding.
The key is to balance style and comfort, keeping in mind the season and the fact that you’ll likely be doing a lot of standing and walking. And remember, dressing well often translates to better service!
Essential Tips for Wine Tasting Outfits (All Seasons)
No matter the season, here are some cardinal rules I follow when choosing my wine tasting attire:
- Prioritize Comfortable Footwear: Skip the high heels! Opt for flats, loafers, stylish sandals, or comfortable boots. You’ll be on your feet, and uneven terrain is common. All the best winery outfits are centered around good footwear first.
- Choose a Crossbody Bag: Keep your hands free for wine glasses and photos with a small, easy-to-access crossbody bag or a shoulder purse.
- Wear Smudge-Free Lipstick: Long-lasting lipstick is a must for all that sipping and snacking.
- Wear White with Caution: White looks chic, but red wine spills happen. If you must wear white, bring a stain remover like Wine Away.
- Skip Strong Perfumes: Strong scents can interfere with the wine tasting experience.
- Dress Up a Bit: Wine country is the perfect excuse to showcase a stylish outfit. I love to shop for a good maxi dress that makes me feel fancy.
- Layer Your SPF: Protect your skin from the California sun, even in winter.
- Keep it Simple and Elevated: When in doubt, choose a simple, comfortable outfit that feels a bit more special.
Wine Tasting Outfit Ideas by Season
California’s wine country offers distinct experiences depending on the time of year. Here’s a breakdown of outfit ideas tailored to each season:
Summer Wine Tasting Outfits
Summer in wine country is hot! I’ve learn from experience that it’s best to dress in light layers. Reach for breathable fabrics, flowy silhouettes, and sun protection. Keep in mind that Napa will be hotter than Sonoma since it’s more inland.
- Summer Outfit 1: Flowy Sundress
- A midi-length floral sundress is a summer classic. Pair it with flats or low-wedge sandals and a wide-brimmed hat for that sun protection.
- Variations: Cinch the waist with a woven belt, add a crossbody bag, or layer with a light denim jacket.
- Details: For a summer wine tasting, a flowy sundress in a lightweight fabric like cotton, linen, or rayon is ideal for staying cool and stylish. The vibrant floral prints or pastel colors capture the essence of the season beautifully. Wedge sandals provide both style and the stability needed for walking on uneven vineyard grounds. A wide-brimmed hat adds an elegant touch while offering essential sun protection.
- Summer Outfit 2: Fitted Blouse and Comfortable Jeans
- Combine a linen or cotton blouse with relaxed-fit jeans in a darker wash (to hide spills).
- Variations: Tuck in the blouse with a statement belt, or leave it untucked with rolled-up jeans and slide sandals.
- Details: To stay comfortable and chic in the warm weather, opt for a fitted blouse in a breathable fabric like linen or cotton. Dark-wash jeans are a practical yet stylish choice, effectively concealing potential wine spills. A statement belt can define your waist and add personality, while slide sandals offer a comfortable and stylish footwear option for a casual wine tasting.
- Summer Outfit 3: Romper or Jumpsuit
- A romper or jumpsuit in a breathable fabric is a stylish and comfortable choice.
- Variations: Accessorize with a floppy hat and espadrille wedges, or layer with a cropped denim jacket and sneakers.
- Details: For a comfortable and chic summer wine tasting outfit, a romper or jumpsuit in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen is perfect. A playful print or solid color can offer great versatility. Espadrille wedges provide both elevation and stability for walking on vineyard grounds, and a floppy hat adds a touch of glamour while providing sun protection.
Fall Wine Tasting Outfits
Fall brings warm days and cooler evenings. Layers are key!
- Fall Outfit 1: Fitted Turtleneck and High-Waisted Trousers
- Pair a cozy turtleneck with wide-leg trousers.
- Variations: Add a tailored blazer, swap the trousers for jeans, or accessorize with a patterned scarf.
- Details: A fitted turtleneck in a rich autumn hue like burgundy, olive green, or mustard provides both warmth and style for a fall wine tasting. High-waisted, wide-leg trousers create a sophisticated and comfortable silhouette. A tailored blazer adds a layer of refinement and can be easily removed if the weather warms up. A patterned scarf introduces texture and visual interest to the outfit.
- Fall Outfit 2: Midi Skirt and Sweater
- Combine a midi skirt with a lightweight sweater.
- Variations: Tuck in the sweater with knee-high boots, or switch to a fitted turtleneck with a sleeveless vest.
- Details: For an elegant fall wine tasting outfit, consider a midi skirt in a fall-inspired fabric like corduroy, velvet, or satin. Pair it with a lightweight sweater in a complementary color for a cozy yet stylish look. Knee-high boots offer both warmth and style and can be worn over tights for added comfort. A fitted turtleneck paired with a sleeveless vest provides a layered and versatile option for navigating changing temperatures.
- Fall Outfit 3: Jumpsuit or Romper * Choose a tailored jumpsuit in a neutral tone and layer it with a cardigan. * Variations: Layer with a long shirt jacket, swap ankle boots for ballet flats, and accessorize with a woven tote bag.
- Details: A tailored jumpsuit in a neutral color like olive, navy, or black provides a sophisticated and versatile base for a fall wine tasting outfit. Layering with a cardigan or a long shirt jacket adds warmth and allows you to adapt to changing temperatures. Ankle boots or ballet flats offer comfortable and stylish footwear options, and a woven tote bag is a perfect accessory for carrying essentials.
Winter Wine Tasting Outfits
Winter in California wine country can be chilly. Prioritize warmth and comfort with cozy layers.
- Winter Outfit 1: Chunky Sweater and Jeans
- Pair a chunky knit sweater with high-waisted skinny jeans.
- Variations: Layer the sweater over a fitted turtleneck, or pair it with wide-leg trousers and a tailored coat.
- Details: A chunky knit sweater in a warm wool or cashmere blend is a winter essential for staying cozy and stylish. High-waisted skinny jeans create a sleek silhouette and can be tucked into boots for extra warmth. Layering the sweater over a fitted turtleneck provides additional insulation on colder days. Wide-leg trousers paired with a tailored coat offer a more sophisticated and polished winter wine tasting look.
- Winter Outfit 2: Blazer and Midi Skirt
- Combine a tweed blazer with a jewel-toned midi skirt.
- Variations: Layer a silk blouse or a dark turtleneck under the blazer, and add tights and loafers or ankle boots.
- Details: A tweed blazer in a classic pattern like houndstooth or plaid adds a touch of sophistication and warmth. Pair it with a jewel-toned midi skirt in a rich fabric like velvet or satin for a pop of color and elegance. Layering a silk blouse or a dark turtleneck under the blazer adds a refined touch. Tights and loafers or ankle boots are both comfortable and stylish footwear choices, suitable for navigating potentially slippery winter terrain.
- Winter Outfit 3: Wool Dress and Knee-High Boots
- Wear a wool pinafore dress over a turtleneck.
- Variations: Layer with a tailored camel coat and knee-high boots, or add a faux fur stole and heeled ankle boots.
- Details: A wool pinafore dress layered over a turtleneck is a stylish and warm option. Opt for a dress in a classic silhouette and neutral color for maximum versatility. A tailored camel coat adds an extra layer of sophistication and warmth, while knee-high boots offer excellent coverage and protection from the cold. For added luxury and warmth, consider a faux fur stole or a knitted shawl.
Spring Wine Tasting Outfits
Spring in wine country is all about blooming flowers and mild temperatures. Embrace floral patterns and lightweight layers.
- Spring Outfit 1: Classic Floral Dress
- A light, floral-print midi dress is a Spring classic.
- Variations: Pair with a denim jacket and flats, or dress it up with a leather jacket and ankle boots.
- Details: A light, floral-print midi dress captures the essence of spring and is an ideal choice for a wine tasting. Choose a dress in a breathable fabric like cotton, chiffon, or silk for комфорт. A denim jacket adds a touch of casualness and warmth, perfect for unpredictable spring weather, while flats offer both comfort and style. A leather jacket and ankle boots can dress up the outfit for a more sophisticated and edgy spring wine tasting look.
- Spring Outfit 2: Linen-Blend Jumpsuit
- A tailored linen-blend jumpsuit is a versatile choice.
- Variations: Layer with a cardigan and loafers, or wear it on its own with a silk scarf and pointed flats.
- Details: A tailored linen-blend jumpsuit offers a stylish and comfortable alternative to a dress for a spring wine tasting. The lightweight and breathable fabric is perfectly suited to the mild spring temperatures. Layering with a cardigan provides added warmth and versatility. Loafers are a classic and comfortable footwear choice, and a silk scarf adds a touch of elegance and can be styled in many beautiful ways.
- Spring Outfit 3: Peasant Blouse and Trousers
- Pair a flowy peasant blouse with high-waisted wide-leg trousers.
- Variations: Tuck the blouse and accessorize with ankle boots, or wear pointed-toe flats and a felt hat.
- Details: A flowy peasant blouse in a soft fabric like cotton or rayon creates a romantic and feminine spring wine tasting look. High-waisted wide-leg trousers offer a comfortable and stylish silhouette. Ankle boots introduce a touch of edge and can be worn with various heel heights, while pointed-toe flats offer a more refined and elegant option. A felt hat adds a bohemian flair and provides welcome sun protection.
What to Wear to a Wine Tasting Event
For a wine tasting party or vineyard wedding, dress up a bit more. Think cocktail attire or a stylish dress.
Remember to consider the venue (e.g., outdoor lawn vs. indoor setting) when choosing your shoes and accessories.
Details: When attending a wine tasting party or vineyard wedding, the dress code is typically more elevated than for a casual wine tasting. Cocktail attire, such as a semi-formal dress, a stylish jumpsuit, or a dressy skirt and top, is generally appropriate.
Consider the venue: for an outdoor lawn setting, choose footwear like wedges, block heels, or stylish flats that won’t sink into the grass. For an indoor setting, you have more footwear flexibility. Enhance your outfit with statement jewelry, a chic clutch, and a light wrap or jacket for cooler evenings.
Dressing for the Perfect Wine Tasting Experience
Dressing for a wine tasting is about balancing style and comfort. By following these tips and outfit ideas, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your wine country adventure in any season. I’m not going to lie — I love looking at what other bloggers are wearing to get updated wine tasting outfit ideas.
Happy hour will always be fun, but there’s something so special about grabbing your girls and heading to Calistoga, or Santa Cruz Mountains for a day of wine tasting together. And it’s always more fun when you dress up in a cute winery outfit!
More Travel Posts You’ll Love
When planning your wine tasting outfits, it’s essential to balance comfort, style, and the seasonal charm of California’s picturesque vineyards. Whether you’re opting for cozy layers in the fall, chic wool coats in the winter, or lightweight dresses in the spring, each ensemble should reflect your personal style while keeping you comfortable for a day of exploring wineries.
This variety of chic and practical wine tasting outfits across all seasons is specifically tailored so you look your best when visiting California wineries. Each outfit is designed with comfort and style in mind, ensuring you look and feel your best while enjoying your wine tasting experience.
Explore the beautiful California wineries in style with these carefully crafted outfit ideas. Whether you’re planning a casual day trip or an elegant vineyard tour, these wine tasting outfits will ensure you look and feel fantastic every step of the way. Cheers to drinking in style!
45 comments
I love your post! I’m in love with your style and dying to know where your floral blazer in the Winter photos is from. Would you kindly share the brand/style? Thanks!
Love the inspiration and great photos! The forecast for my tasting is a heavy thunderstorm so the many open toe shoes don’t seem practical and August is still too summery for booties. Can you please expand with pictures on your “shoes I’m ready to get dirty” line above? I’m struggling with how to dress up shoes I’m ready to get dirty without secretly hoping nobody looks at my feet, lol.
Where did you get these bovine models. Your suggestions are horrible. Looks like something you would wear to clean the garage.
This troll… sigh. There’s always one. The jealousy and self loathing you have to have to make a comment like this. Wow. Shameful.
Unlike other articles I’ve read, I’m a similar body-type to you, so you’ve been much more helpful on what I’d feel comfortable and look good in. I’m also in Florida where it’s always hot. Your style is great! Tomorrow is my first visit and now I’m much more excited!
Thanks for your post! You seem to wear open toed shoes (sandals) even in your “winter” posts—is that right? Isn’t it like 45-55 degrees in NoCal through April? Please advise.
(PS—Hope you can ignore the horribly rude comments from Elaine Wathen.)
This post was exactly what I wanted to see. I often go to the wine country. But I like to make sure I am dressed for the season and the reason I’m going there. Your outfits were the perfect inspiration.
Love this post! As a frequent wine taster, I’ve learned that the right outfit can make all the difference in the world. Thanks for sharing these stylish and practical tips 🍷👒
Thank you very much for this review, it was incredibly useful. I am a full-figured, curvaceous female, and I find it really annoying to read unbiased evaluations of the gaudy, overly marketed clothes websites of days.
I completely agree with you! Why should we compromise on style just for functionality when traveling? It’s refreshing to see a roundup of fashionable travel purses that don’t scream “tourist” while still being practical. Thanks for sharing these stylish alternatives!
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I loved this post! It’s so helpful to have suggestions tailored to California’s vibe. The outfit ideas perfectly capture the relaxed yet chic style we often see at wine tastings. Can’t wait to try out some of these looks on my next vineyard visit! Cheers! 🍷✨
I loved this post! The tips on choosing the right outfit for wine tasting were super helpful, especially the advice on layering for different temperatures. Fashion and comfort definitely go hand in hand when enjoying a day in the vineyard!
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I loved this guide! It’s so helpful to have specific outfit ideas for wine tasting. I never thought about the importance of comfort and style together. Can’t wait to try some of these looks on my next vineyard visit! 🍷✨
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Great tips! I love how you’ve highlighted the importance of comfort while still looking stylish. It’s so helpful to know which fabrics are best for outdoor tastings too. Can’t wait to try out some of these outfit ideas on my next vineyard visit!
Loved this guide! It’s so helpful to have outfit ideas that balance style and comfort for a day of wine tasting. I particularly appreciated the tips on footwear—definitely don’t want to be in heels while wandering through vineyards! Can’t wait to try some of these looks on my next winery visit!
Loved this post! The outfit suggestions are spot on and so helpful. I never knew how to dress for a wine tasting event before, but now I feel ready to impress while enjoying some great wines. Thanks for the tips!
I loved this guide! It’s so helpful to have outfit suggestions that balance comfort and style for wine tasting. I never would have thought to pair a flowy dress with a denim jacket. Can’t wait to try it on my next vineyard visit!
Great tips! The flat shoes advice is spot on—learned that the hard way with heels in Napa. Love the crossbody bag idea for keeping hands free. Flowy dresses in summer sound perfect. Can’t wait to try your layered fall looks next trip!
Where did you get these bovine models. Your suggestions are horrible. Looks like something you would wear to clean the garage.
Loved this post! Choosing the right outfit for wine tasting can really enhance the experience. I appreciate the tips on balancing comfort with style—definitely helps to feel confident while sipping on some fabulous wines!