What to Wear in Mexico City for Every Season

What do people wear in Mexico City?

Like in any big city, fashion in Mexico City varies from person to person, and neighborhood to neighborhood.

In general, Mexico City fashion is more casual than in the United States or Europe. Most chilangos (Mexico City locals) wear jeans and teeshirts on a regular basis, and opt for pants over shorts even in the hottest time of the year.

That said, you’ll see wealthier locals and expats in nicer clothes in neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa. And unlike in other parts of Mexico like Oaxaca and Chiapas, you won’t see a ton of indigenous people wearing traditional clothing.

What should I wear in Mexico City as a tourist?

Figuring out what to wear in Mexico City depends on the season, weather forecast, your Mexico City itinerary and your unique style.

In general, you can wear whatever you like in Mexico City as long as it is weather appropriate. The majority of CDMX locals are enthusiastic about welcoming visitors to their city and the least of their worries is what they’re wearing.

That said, avoid flashy, expensive clothing and jewelry. While most areas Mexico City are perfectly safe, leaving your fancy jewelry and designer clothing at home can reduce your chances of running into trouble.

You also might want to dress slightly more conservatively than you would at the beach—Mexico’s tourism website advises against wearing shorts and flip flops, for example! But, I wear still wear shorts when it’s hot in Mexico City.

Dressing for Mexico City’s Weather

The average low and high temperatures in Mexico City are somewhat consistent regardless of season. Generally, you can expect highs between 70°F and 80°F and lows between 40°F and 50°F throughout the year.

But regardless of the time of year, the temperature can shift drastically throughout the day. Mornings and evenings are typically chilly and it can get very hot mid-day.

Mexico City also has a rainy season, and a dry season. You can expect rain in the evening almost daily during the wet season, which runs between June and October. Meanwhile, it rarely rains in the dry season, which is November to May. Read more about Mexico City’s seasons and the best times to visit on Mexico’s official tourist guide.

What to Wear in Mexico City’s Rainy Season (June-October)

Average Temperatures: Highs of 73-80°F | Lows of 52-57°F

During Mexico City’s rainy season, you can expect clear skies and strong sun throughout most hours of the day. It typically only rains for an hour or two in the late afternoons and evenings. You can also expect it to be chilly in the mornings and evenings.

With that in mind, pack outfits that easily will help you easily transition from cold mornings to hot afternoons, and then to rain.

What to Wear in Mexico City’s Dry Season (November-May)

Average Temperatures: Highs of 71-80°F | Lows of 44-56°F

The weather in Mexico City’s dry season is overall more mild than in the wet season. However, you can find yourself shivering in the mornings and evenings and sweating in the afternoons if you don’t pack flexible outfits.

Layers like button-up shirts, sweatshirts, and cardigans help you stay comfortable throughout the day. And basic clothing items like teeshirts and jeans are great as they typically go well with and without layers.

You may also want to bring a light jacket and a beanie to keep your ears warm in the mornings, especially if you plan to be exploring early.

Shoes for Mexico City

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for anyone traveling to Mexico City because you’ll probably do a lot of walking!

Many travelers prefer sneakers or hiking shoes, but I personally opt for Birkenstock sandals most of the time. They are comfortable enough for me to walk upwards of 20,000 steps and keep my feet cooler than close-toed shoes do.

I typically pack two pairs of sandals (usually both Birkenstocks) as well as a pair of sneakers for exercise and hikes.

What to Wear in Mexico City FAQs

How important is modesty in Mexico City?

In general, Mexicans seem to dress more modestly than Americans and Europeans. However, Mexico City is an international city that is home to expats and immigrants from around the world.

Dressing respectfully is important, but you’ll see people wearing a range of types of clothing.

Do you need to bring a bathing suit to Mexico City?

If your hotel has pool: yes! However, there aren’t many places to swim in Mexico City. If you have a Mexican beach vacation planned directly after your time in Mexico City, be sure to pack a swim suit.

Is it okay to wear shorts in Mexico City?

Wearing shorts in Mexico City is completely okay, though you won’t see a lot of Mexicans wearing shorts in the city.

Do restaurants in Mexico City have a dress code?

Most restaurants do not have a dress code, but when visiting a fine dining establishment, you may want to wear something nicer.

What are the most fashionable areas of Mexico City?

The most fashion-forward neighborhoods of Mexico City tend to be the more wealthy and trendy neighborhoods, such as La Roma, La Condesa, and Polanco.

What else should you include on your Mexico packing list?

Besides clothing, I recommend packing sunscreen, a good day pack, a portable charger, Liquid IV, a good water bottle, and more.

For my full Mexico City packing list, check out my Mexico City packing guide.

What is the best time to visit Mexico City for the weather?

As a general rule, the dry season (November-May) is the best time to visit Mexico City. If you visit at the beginning of November, you may still arrive during the rainy season, but you’ll have the chance to experience Day of the Dead.

Meanwhile, if you visit in the middle of the winter months, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your plans won’t get ruined by rain.

I’ve visited Mexico City during the summer months and still enjoyed my time since summer is full of sunny days with regular rain that happens at the end of the day.

Thanks for reading!

• Browse my favorite Mexico City tours and experiences.
• See the best hotels in Mexico City.
• Check out my other Mexico travel guides.