EVELYSS / Guides / Travel & Everyday

What to Wear in San Francisco in December (Rain, Wind, Hills and Warm Restaurants)

“San Francisco in December is never truly cold and rarely truly warm, and it changes by the block. The people who look good there all wear the same formula: thin layers, a coat with a hood, and shoes that grip a wet hill.”Her take

What's the weather like in San Francisco in December?

December is cool and part of the rainy season. Long-term averages for downtown put the typical high around 58°F and the low around 47°F. Rain comes in spells, and it's common to get several wet days in a row followed by clear, crisp ones.

Wind is the bigger factor than temperature, especially near the water, on hilltops and on ferries. Neighborhoods also feel different: areas near the ocean and the bay tend to feel cooler and breezier than sheltered inland ones. Plan to feel a little chilly in the shade and warm in the sun on the same walk.

The layering formula

Three thin layers beat one thick sweater, because you'll be adding and removing them all day.

• Base: a long-sleeve tee, thin turtleneck or fine merino knit.
• Middle: a crew-neck sweater, cardigan or shacket you can take off in museums and restaurants.
• Outer: a water-resistant coat with a hood that blocks wind.
• Extras: a scarf, a light beanie for the waterfront, and thin gloves for evening walks or ferries.

Which coat to bring

A water-resistant trench with a removable liner is the most versatile choice, and it looks smart at dinner. A hooded parka or rain jacket that reaches mid-thigh is better if you'll be out walking in heavy rain or along the coast.

A wool coat looks great on dry days but soaks through in steady rain. If you bring one, pack a compact rain jacket too. Umbrellas often turn inside out in the wind near the water, so a hood is more reliable.

Shoes for wet, steep streets

Choose shoes with a rubber sole and some tread. Wet sidewalks on steep hills get slippery, and smooth leather soles and thin heels make them harder. Waterproof ankle boots with a lug or textured sole are ideal; leather sneakers work on dry days.

Break shoes in before the trip, because you'll likely walk more than you plan. Pack a second pair so one can dry overnight.

What to wear to dinner and holiday events

Dress codes are relaxed. Dark jeans or tailored trousers with a silk blouse or fine knit and a blazer suits most restaurants. For a dressier evening or a holiday show, a midi dress with tights, ankle boots and a long coat works well.

Restaurants and bars are often warm, so wear a nicer top under your sweater and take the outer layers off inside. Keep jewelry simple and a scarf in your bag for the walk back.

A 4-day December packing list

This fits in a carry-on and covers walking, rain and two dinners.

• 1 water-resistant trench or hooded coat.
• 2 pairs of pants: dark straight-leg jeans and black tailored trousers.
• 1 midi dress or skirt with opaque tights.
• 3 base tops: two long-sleeve tees, one thin turtleneck.
• 2 middle layers: a crew-neck sweater and a cardigan or shacket.
• 1 blazer or silk blouse for dinner.
• 2 pairs of shoes: waterproof ankle boots and leather sneakers.
• Scarf, light beanie, thin gloves, compact rain jacket if your coat isn't waterproof.

Questions people ask

The takeaway

Thin layers, a hooded water-resistant coat, grippy waterproof boots, a scarf for the wind, and a nicer top under your sweater for warm restaurants.

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