What to Wear to a Winery

Recently I met a friend at a new vineyard here in the Nutmeg State, and she mentioned to me that she wasn’t sure what people wore when they visited vineyards and wineries. She was dressed in jeans, comfy shoes and a cute top, so I told her she was wearing a great outfit.

But, her thoughts about what to wear made me realize that many people, such as my friend, have never visited a local vineyard and may be wondering what the dress code might be when making that venture. So, I thought I would share a few details with all of you as to what I’ve worn when I make my trips to CT wine country, and also what I’ve seen others wearing, in the hopes it will give you ideas on picking out your outfit when you are planning your next excursion to a winery.

First of all, I will put a disclaimer out there that I am not a fashion blogger or fashion expert, but I believe if you are comfortable in what you are wearing you will feel beautiful, so if any of the tips I provide below don’t resonate with you, always wear what makes you feel your best!

Usually, in the summer I opt for shorts, distressed jeans or linen pants paired with a cute top, or a fun dress that is lightweight so I can layer on a sweater or jean jacket if temperatures happen to drop in the evening, and sandals or cute sneakers. Most of the vineyards will have some paved areas, but often times the landscape is grass or gravel so you want to be prepared to walk on all types of surfaces. For those of us who like a little height, wearing platform sandals or wedges work well also.

In early fall I opt for layers as well, but once the temperatures start to drop, definitely wear tights with those dresses and boots, and pair with a cute sweater and jacket.

And in spring, as the weather gets warmer, it’s more of a layers situation again, but primarily what you may want to wear when you arrive and then as the temperatures rise, what you may need to remove such as a light jacket or kimono.

I always advise being hands-free when you go to a vineyard as you will most likely be carrying a glass of wine in one hand and want to use your phone or camera to take pictures or video. I opt for a cross body bag or purse to help me or a great jacket with pockets during the colder seasons.

And, let me not forget about the guys. Always being comfortable and wearing layers works just as well for the men in your life who may venture to the wineries with you. Jeans or shorts and a polo shirt or favorite tee shirt layered with sandals or sneakers works great for spring and summer adventures. And, for the colder temps, jeans, corduroy pants and a long sleeved thermal, flannel top over a tee shirt or a great chunky sweater works well, and of course, boots or sneakers. And if you’re lucky enough to have someone with you on your visit, you could always ask that friend or significant other to hold your wine or take pictures with you, so maybe you don’t need to bring a purse or bag. Just sayin’.

Whatever you choose to wear, go for comfort first and then perhaps consider from those options what you’d like to be photographed in if you have the opportunity. That’s my thought process for my winery wardrobe choices. If you have outfits you like to wear when you sip local, please share those suggestions in the comments below. I’d love to hear them!