What the heck do you wear to a winery anyway? As a self-proclaimed wine country addict (I live in San Francisco and visit Sonoma and Napa probably a little too much) and a WSET 2 Distinction, I’ve got the wine tasting outfits on LOCK.
I’ve learned from the past — on my first trip to Napa Valley years ago when I put on a tiny dress and high heels for a February visit… I ended up tripping around (since heels and wine don’t mix!) and freezing my butt off. It’s still chilly up there in the winter!
I’m here to help you learn from my outfit fails. In this post, I’m guiding you through exactly what to wear and what not to wear while wine tasting, along with tons of my real-life winery outfits that I’ve worn!
30+ Seasonal Wine Tasting Outfit Ideas
Planning a west coast wine tasting trip and unsure what to wear wine tasting in California? Whether it’s a sun-drenched summer day or a crisp fall afternoon, dressing appropriately for a wine tasting can enhance your overall experience.
Here are a variety of chic and practical outfit options that align with wine tasting etiquette for each season of the year, ensuring you look stylish and feel comfortable while savoring the best of California’s wine country–because comfortable clothes for wine tasting are a MUST!
Chic Wine Tasting Outfits For Summer
Oh boy, summer in wine country can get hot hot hot. On top of a top-notch deodorant, I always reach for sunglasses, sun hats, straw hats, flowy dresses, and linen jumpsuits. I like to channel Greek island vibes sometimes — big dresses that billow in the wind and help cool me off while still looking effortless.
Summer is when the vines will be covered in green leaves and purple grapes. If you’re trying to take that classic photo walk through vines, this is the month to do it! Some of my favorite wineries in California to visit in the Summer are in Napa, like Peju or Frog’s Leap which have beautiful properties.
Pure white will probably glare too much in the bright sunlight, so opt for either cream, or a bold print. (Keep in mind, brown, black and green clothing will blend in too much so save those for another trip.) White in general doesn’t make for the best dresses for wine tasting due to spills.
Now for some gorgeous summer outfit ideas for California wine tasting! Summer in California wine country calls for light, breathable fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable. Embrace vibrant prints and flowy silhouettes that exude effortless elegance. Here are three chic wine tasting outfits perfect for soaking up the summer sun.
Summer Wine Tasting Outfit: A Classic Flowy Sundress
The best wine tasting outfits for warm weather are centered around dresses!
First up, a flowy sundress in a light, breathable fabric is perfect for a summer wine tasting. This midi-length dress with a floral print had a touch of elegance and summery vibes is perfect wine country attire.
Pair it with comfortable wedge sandals and a wide-brimmed straw hat for a classic vineyard look.
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Switch it up by accessorizing the sundress with a woven belt to cinch the waist and add a structured crossbody bag. Finish the look with oversized sunglasses and delicate hoop earrings for a chic and relaxed ensemble.
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For a more laid-back approach, layer the sundress with a lightweight denim jacket. Swap the sandals for espadrilles or flats, and carry a small backpack or a crossbody bag.
When considering what shoes to wear wine tasting in California, it’s always better to opt for flat shoes rather than heels, as they’re more comfortable shoes for wineries. The terrain is often rough, plus you’ll be on your feet a lot.
Summer Wine Tasting Outfit: A Fitted Blouse & Comfy Jeans
Pair a fitted, sleeveless blouse in a breathable fabric like linen or cotton with comfortable, high-waisted jeans. Make sure to go for dark colors rather than lighter ones, since sometimes spills are unavoidable.
Choose jeans with a relaxed fit for ease of movement and comfort during your wine tasting experience. Complete the look with stylish loafers or flat sandals.
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Elevate the look by tucking the blouse into the jeans and accessorize with a statement belt and a pair of hoop earrings. Carry a crossbody bag or a small clutch for convenience.
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Leave the blouse untucked for a more relaxed look. Roll up the jeans slightly for a casual vibe and wear slide sandals or slip-on sneakers. Make sure to wear closed-toed shoes if you know the terrain will be uneven–no one wants to trip with a glass of wine in hand!
Layer delicate necklaces and add bracelets for a bohemian-inspired flair. Add a woven tote bag and oversized sunglasses to complete the slightly more laid-back outfit.
Summer Wine Tasting Outfit: A Cute Romper or Jumpsuit
A romper or jumpsuit in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen offers effortless style and comfort for a summer wine tasting. Opt for a playful print or a solid color for versatility, just make sure it’s not white or a light color–or remember to bring spot remover!
Choose a style with adjustable straps or a wrap neckline for a flattering fit. Accessorize the romper or jumpsuit with a wide-brimmed floppy hat and espadrille wedges.
Add a statement necklace or dangling earrings for a touch of glamour. Carry a woven straw clutch or a bucket bag for a chic finishing touch.
Layer the romper or jumpsuit with a lightweight, cropped denim jacket or a linen blazer. Pair with comfortable sneakers or flat sandals for a more casual look. Complete the outfit with a crossbody bag or a backpack for convenience.
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These outfits blend style with comfort, perfect for enjoying a day of wine tasting in the summer sun. Each variation offers a unique take on stylish wine tasting outfits, ensuring you look effortlessly chic while savoring the vineyard experience. Just don’t forget your smudge-free lipstick!
Cozy Fall Wine Tasting Outfit Ideas
Fall winery outfits are some of my favorites! Did you know grape vines get fall foliage like trees?! It’s so dang cool to wander the vineyard rows during the fall and view the colors. It’s just a sea of orange, yellow and red.
In California, fall is still pretty warm too, but not as crazy hot as summer. You may want to break out the skinny jeans and denim jacket for a fall look.
I love gingham print, though, to channel those classic fall vibes. I once wore a blue skirt during a fall visit to Healdsburg and it popped really nicely against the orange vines in photos so consider blue outfits!
As the leaves change color, fall in California wine country offers a crisp, refreshing ambiance. Layering is key to staying warm while looking stylish. Discover versatile wine tasting outfits that combine cozy layers with autumnal charm. Here are some gorgeous Fall outfit ideas for California wine tasting!
Fall Wine Tasting Outfit: Fitted Turtleneck and High-Waisted Trousers
Pair a cozy, fitted turtleneck in a rich burgundy shade–perfect for hiding any spills–with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers. Accessorize with a leather crossbody bag and simple gold jewelry to complete the ensemble.
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Transition the turtleneck into a more layered look by adding a tailored blazer in a complementary color, such as olive green. Swap the wide-leg trousers for slim-fit jeans or ankle-length pants. Opt for comfortable low-heeled ankle boots for comfort, and accessorize with a patterned scarf for a polished finish.
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Fall Wine Tasting Outfit: Midi Skirt and Sweater
Start with a midi-length, A-line skirt in a deep wine color paired with a lightweight long-sleeve knit shirt. Tuck the sweater into the skirt and accessorize with knee-high boots and a wide belt to define the waist. Layer a cardigan if you know it’s going to be cold!
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Transform the midi skirt into a chic ensemble by switching the sweater for a fitted turtleneck in a coordinating hue–these ribbed turtlenecks are available in basically any color you could want, but I LOVE this mustard color, it’s so autumn-y.
Layer over a sleeveless vest for texture and warmth. Slip on some comfy loafers and accessorize with a crossbody bag and statement earrings to elevate the look. Straight out of a rom-com!
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Fall Wine Tasting Outfit: Jumpsuit or Romper
Choose a tailored jumpsuit in a neutral tone like olive green or black. Layer with a lightweight cardigan or a longline blazer for a sophisticated touch. Pair with ankle boots or suede loafers and accessorize with a head scarf.
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Layer with a long shirt jacket or a utility-style overshirt. Swap ankle boots for ballet flats or mary-janes. Accessorize with a woven tote bag and statement jewelry for a look that’s perfect for casual wine tastings.
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These outfits balance comfort with style, ensuring you look effortlessly chic while enjoying fall wine tasting adventures.
Stylish Wine Tasting Outfit Ideas for Winter
I don’t think I’ve ever had a hot winter wine tasting experience. Winter in California’s wine regions can be chilly, making warmth and comfort essential. Think plush sweaters, tailored coats, and cozy boots. Anything that has layers and tons of warmth in case your wine tour takes you on a stroll through a cold wine cave or something.
Always pack an umbrella, too, as there’s a good chance you’ll get winter rain! Keep in mind the vines will be dead and brown, so you probably won’t be taking too many wonder babe photos strolling the vineyards this time of year.
These winter wine tasting outfits will keep you snug and stylish as you savor seasonal wines. Here are some fabulous tips and pieces to keep in mind when packing for a Winter California wine tasting trip!
Winter Wine Tasting Outfit: Chunky Sweater and Jeans
Keep it simple with a chunky knit sweater in a fun color like this stunning hot pink paired with high-waisted skinny jeans. (Yes we said it! Skinny jeans have their time and place!)
Add a little pizzaz by layering the sweater over a fitted turtleneck in a contrasting color like this gorgeous green. Tuck the sweater partially into the jeans and add some cute ankle boots. Accessorize with some fun jewelry for a stand-out look.
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Pair the sweater with wide-leg trousers in a fun complimentary color. Add a tailored coat in a neutral or complimentary color, or a pattern depending on how bold you want to be. Pull on some ankle boots and accessorize with a scarf and structured handbag for a polished winter look.
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Winter Wine Tasting Outfit: Blazer and Midi Skirt
A tweed blazer in a classic houndstooth pattern, featuring a tailored fit and structured shoulders. Pair it with a midi skirt in a rich jewel tone, such as emerald green, with subtle pleating for movement.
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Layer the blazer over a silk blouse in a coordinating color, tucked neatly into the skirt. Add opaque tights and comfy loafers or oxfords, like these adorable black and white bow loafers. Finish the look off with a choker pearl necklace and a clutch bag for a refined but trendy bow-inspired winter wine tasting outfit.
This outfit is sooo old money, and while there’s no official dress code for California wineries, they lean towards the fancier side of things, and it never hurts to be overdressed.
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Instead of the blouse, opt for a dark turtleneck underneath the blazer. Belt the blazer at the waist to create definition and pair with ankle booties. Accessorize with hoop earrings and a statement bag for a chic, contemporary look with a pop of color.
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Winter Wine Tasting Outfit: Wool Dress and Knee-High Boots
A wool pinafore layered over a turtleneck, featuring a relaxed silhouette and a modest hemline. The dress is designed for warmth and comfort, perfect for cooler winter days. Plus it’s available in 6 different patterns!
Layer a tailored camel coat over the dress, cinching the waist with a belt. Wear knee-high boots in a matching tone and accessorize with a classic beret. Carry a cute floral leather crossbody bag for a pop, and voila, you have an outfit that would impress even the French!
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Add a faux fur stole or knitted shawl over the dress for added warmth and luxury. Pair with heeled ankle boots in a complimentary color and accessorize with delicate gold earrings. Carry a clutch bag with metallic accents to complete the elegant winter ensemble.
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These outfits combine warmth with style, ensuring you stay comfortable while looking chic during your winter wine tasting adventures. Just make sure your boots aren’t heeled–you’re in for a lot of walking!
Wine Tasting Outfit Ideas Spring
Springtime at wineries usually means FLOWERS! And mud from rain, and sometimes chilly breezes. Vines will slowly be starting to blossom during the spring, but they’ll still look mostly brown (with just a little bit of green.)
I always get inspired by winery gardens and go for white or floral dresses, midi skirts, espadrilles and of course, denim jackets in case I get chilly.
This will be the time of year that I wear shoes I’m ready to get dirty, since it may be muddy in the vineyards. But mostly I just get really inspired by the romance of winery gardens and dress to match.
Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures to California wine country. It’s the perfect season to embrace fresh, floral patterns and lightweight layers. Explore wine tasting outfits that capture the essence of springtime elegance and comfort. Here are three Spring-themed California vineyard outfit ideas!
Spring Wine Tasting Outfit: Classic Floral Dress
Florals for Spring? Groundbreaking. This is such a classic fit for gallivanting around the vineyards in the Spring. A light, floral-print midi dress with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt.
Pair the dress with a denim jacket, a wide-brimmed straw hat, and comfortable flats. Add a woven tote bag and delicate gold jewelry, and you’re a Spring dream.
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Transition the dress into evening by swapping the denim jacket for a cropped leather jacket–look at this gorgeous pink thing!! Wear ankle boots with a low heel. Carry a small crossbody bag to store your phone in, and you’re ready for anything.
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Spring Wine Tasting Outfit: Linen Blend Jumpsuit
A simple way to put an outfit together? Build onto one piece like a tailored linen-blend jumpsuit in a fun spring color. You can style it in so many different ways beyond the wineries too! And linen is perfect for the warmer months because it’s so light and airy!
Layer a lightweight cashmere cardigan over the jumpsuit for a cozy daytime look. Add slip-on loafers and a crossbody bag in a complementary color. Finish with oversized sunglasses for a touch of glamour.
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For a chic evening ensemble, wear the jumpsuit on its own with pointed flats and statement earrings. Wrap a silk scarf around your neck, carry a complimentary clutch or purse, and pull your hair up in a sleek ponytail to highlight the outfit’s sophistication.
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Spring Wine Tasting Outfit: Peasant Blouse And Trousers
For a fun, laid-back spring look, pair a flowy peasant blouse with high-waisted wide-leg trousers in a neutral tone.
Tuck the blouse into the trousers. Accessorize with ankle boots, and carry a printed pomegranate tote–sooo adorable!
Slip into pointed-toe flats or loafers, accessorize with a floppy felt hat and a bucket bag in a contrasting color. Complete the look with delicate stud earrings and a swipe of bold lipstick–smudge free.
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These outfits blend comfort with style, perfect for enjoying a day of wine tasting amidst the vibrant colors of spring!
Decoding California Wine Country Attire
Now, let’s talk dress code. Wineries don’t have dress code (other than normal ones businesses have, like shoes and shirts are required sort of thing).
But, it’s expected you will dress nice when you visit one. At least when you are in California. You’ll also receive better service if you dress up vs down. Some like to call it “wine country casual.”
What does that even mean? Think of it like this: it’s not quite as put together as what you’d wear to the office, but it’s a little classier than daisy dukes and t-shirt.
You also want to keep in mind the season because a lot of wine tasting is outdoors. So a flowy dress is perfect for spring and summer, but you might want something a little cozier when visiting in fall and winter. No matter the season, always check the weather ahead of time and pack layers because it can be unpredictable.
What To Wear Wine Tasting & What Not To Wear: 8 Cardinal Rules No Matter The Season
It doesn’t matter where I am wine tasting or what season, there are some cardinal rules I follow when styling wine tasting attire to make sure I’m comfy (and stylish).
1. NO HIGH HEELS
I gotta put that in caps because yes, I am internet shouting at you. Look, I’ve done it. More than once. I see women all the time-tripping around vineyards in high heels on their winery tours (one even twisted her ankle) and it’s just not the shoe to wear.
Not all wineries seat you for tastings, so you have to expect you’ll be standing for most of the day. Wine plus high heels and standing for hours already is a recipe for painful feet, but add in uneven terrain (like cobblestones or grass) and you’re be wishing you wore something else.
I always wear flats like loafers or slides, or baby chunky heels that are super comfy (like this pair!). For winter winery visits, I may even wear boots without heels.
If you’re looking for wine tour outfits, it’s especially important to wear sturdy shoes as they’ll probably be taking you all over the vineyards, fields and caves. The perfect wine tasting shoes are ones you can stand all day in. Go for the comfortable shoes!
2. Wear A Crossbody Purse
You’ll be holding a wine glass and will need your hands free to open doors or take photos with your phone. Skip the fancy bag and trust me when I say you’ll be grateful for a small hassle-free purse like this crossbody bag.
Make sure it has an easy open top for you to reach in and out of, as again, you don’t have two hands to open a zipper or complicated button when you are holding a wine glass.
I love bags that are large enough to stick sunglasses, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, maybe even a foldable sunhat in case it gets hot!
3. Wear Smudge-Free Lipstick
Stay all day lipstick is KEY when wine tasting and eating cheese for 6 hours straight. This lipstick is my my favorite lippy when I go wine tasting.
4. Wear White With Caution
Have I worn white dressed for wine tasting before? Yes! I have spilled red wine on myself? YES. Here’s the thing: I love the look of white in vineyards. It’s chic and timeless. But you have to wear white with caution. If you easily spill on yourself, only wear those white denim jeans to champagne houses like Mumm or Korbel.
This past fall I wore my favorite white maxi dress while wine tasting and I spilled a little red on it. I was so sad, but thankfully the winery had Wine Away.
This stuff is magic and makes wine stains disappear fast! So, if you do insist on wearing white summer fashion outfits or wear jeans that are light-colored, bring a bottle of Wine Away with you.
This wine remover spray is magic, I swear. Not all wineries stock this, so you should bring your own on wine tasting trips. I once spilled red wine on my favorite white dress and with a few sprays, the stain was totally gone. MAGIC.
5. No Strong Perfumes
Wine tasting is so strongly rooted in your nose — sniffing the wine glass and tasting flavors. Strong perfume is going to mess with your taste buds, so just wear some good deodorant and skip the perfume.
6. Dress Up
Wine country casual is probably more upscale than “normal causal” but even so, I LOVE using wine country as an excuse to show off a really cool outfit. Tulle skirt? Bow top? Romantic maxi? Yes Yes YES!
Skip basic tank top and shorts – opt for something cute! Especially if it is a formal sit down tasting or dinner. Whenever I’m thinking about what to wear to a wine tasting dinner, I always aim for an elevated look.
7. Layer Up Your SPF
I have walked away from wine tasting in January with sunburns. Always wear a good face sunscreen under your makeup (I wear this!) and good body sunscreen.
My backyard of Napa and Sonoma wine tasting both see all four seasons, but even if you are tasting in the winter expect you will be sunburnt as days are usually sunny in California wine country.
8. When In Doubt – Go With A Simple Outfit That’s Elevated
Honestly, wine tasting is literally just fancy day drinking. You’ll be tired and a wee bit drunk after a long day of sipping wines.
Skip the button-up romper that is hard to take on and off, or the wrap dress that likes to blow around and instead just wear something simple and/or hassle-free. When in doubt, a chic yet cozy Quince sweater is always a good idea.
Now time for some major style inspiration!
What to wear to a wine tasting event
Trying to figure out what to wear to a wine tasting party or even a vineyard wedding? Dress up even more than you would if you were just doing a simple tasting.
Winery attire for special events = more room to get fun with outfits and fashion! I personally have rented outfits from Nuuly in the past for events and weddings, they have so many cool dresses (like this sequin dress!) that would look amazing in a winery setting.
Still be thoughtful about your shoes, since you may have to sit in the field for a ceremony or stand on the lawn for an event. But plan on having a seat to keep your purse or coat, so you won’t have to be carrying those around.
This totally depends on the event, though. While in Portugal with Vinho Verde a few summers ago we did a mix of wine tasting fairs where you walk around to booths and network, along with seated dinners with producers. For the networking fairs I tried to dress more “smart” and professional.
I hope this helps you get ideas on what to wear to a winery! 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!
19 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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