What to Wear in London

Dress for changeable weather and a lot of walking, and you're most of the way there. London isn't a formal city. Jeans are fine almost everywhere, from pubs to the theatre, and people dress for the commute, not for show.

The rain is the main thing to plan for. It's usually light and on and off, so a waterproof jacket with a hood is more useful than an umbrella, which is awkward on crowded pavements and useless in the wind by the river. A jacket also covers you when a sunny morning turns grey by lunchtime, which happens often.

Layers matter more here than in most cities because of the Tube. You'll go from a cold street to a crowded carriage that can be uncomfortably warm, even in winter, and back again several times a day. A thin jumper or fleece under a light jacket works for most of the year. Add a warm coat, scarf and gloves from November to February, when the damp makes it feel colder than the thermometer says.

Then there are shoes. A day of sightseeing easily covers ten or fifteen kilometres, much of it on hard pavements and Tube stairs, and stations have long corridors. Bring comfortable, worn-in shoes that can handle a wet day. For Hampstead Heath or a day trip into the countryside, something with grip helps on muddy paths.

Smarter restaurants, cocktail bars and hotel afternoon teas expect smart casual, and a few old-fashioned places still have dress codes, so check before you book. Churches ask for respectful clothing but rarely enforce anything. In summer, pack for both a heatwave and a cool, wet week, as the best time to visit guide explains why.

Packing list

• A waterproof jacket with a hood
• Comfortable, worn-in shoes that cope with rain
• A thin jumper or fleece for layering
• A warm coat, scarf and gloves from November to February
• One smarter outfit for a good dinner or afternoon tea
• A small umbrella, if you insist
• A British three-pin plug adapter
• A day bag that closes, for crowded Tube carriages