Delhi’s energy is undeniable — from its bustling bazaars and regal monuments to rooftop cafes and colorful festivals. But if you’re visiting for the first time, one of the most asked questions is: “What should I wear?”
Whether you’re roaming the Red Fort or hopping metros, dressing right is key to both comfort and cultural ease.
Here’s a season-wise breakdown to help you pack smart and blend in stylishly — with local shopping tips, budget ranges, and must-know cultural notes.
☀️ Summer (April to June): Hot & Dry
- Temperature: 35°C to 45°C
- What to wear:
- Light cotton or linen tops and pants
- Flowing dresses or kurtis
- Sunglasses, scarves (to shield from sun), flip-flops or breathable shoes
- Cultural note: Sleeveless tops are okay in modern areas but keep a shawl or shrug handy for temples or local markets.
- Where to buy:
- FabIndia (Rs. 1,000–2,500)
- Janpath Market (Rs. 300–700)
- Pro Tip: Carry a scarf — it’s a savior for dust, heat, and religious sites.
🌧️ Monsoon (July to September): Warm & Humid
- Temperature: 25°C to 35°C with high humidity
- What to wear:
- Quick-dry fabrics (avoid denims)
- Shorts with oversized tops
- Waterproof sandals or Crocs
- Lightweight raincoat or umbrella
- Cultural note: Avoid whites and pastels unless you enjoy Delhi’s mud art on your clothes!
- Where to buy:
- Decathlon for rain gear (Rs. 800–1,500)
- Sarojini Nagar for fast fashion (Rs. 200–500)
🍁 Autumn & Winter (October to February): Cool to Cold
- Temperature: 8°C to 22°C
- What to wear:
- Layers — thermals, hoodies, jackets
- Woolen scarves, beanies
- Closed shoes or boots
- Cultural note: Winter is Delhi’s fashion moment. Locals love warm fabrics with style, especially around Christmas and Lohri.
- Where to buy:
- Lajpat Nagar for shawls and pashminas (Rs. 500–3,000)
- Zara / H&M / Uniqlo for winter layers
🌸 Spring (February to March): Pleasant & Festive
- Temperature: 18°C to 28°C
- What to wear:
- Floral prints, light jackets
- Indo-western fusions: kurtis with jeans
- Comfortable sneakers for walks
- Cultural note: Holi and other festivals happen around this time — wear old clothes if attending color-filled events!
- Where to buy:
- Delhi Haat for handmade cottons and festive attire
- Anokhi / FabIndia for spring-friendly elegance
💡 What Locals Won’t Tell You (But We Will!)
- Footwear Tip: Always carry a spare pair of socks or slippers. Many heritage sites and temples are shoe-free zones.
- Temple Tip: Carry a light stole or scarf to cover your head if needed.
- Laundry Tip: Hotel laundries can be pricey — try services like Pick My Laundry or DhobiLite via app.
- Money Tip: Most shops, even street stalls, accept digital payments through the Mony app, so you can scan and pay directly from your foreign cards without worrying about cash or exchange rates.
🧳 Packing Checklist by Essentials:
| Item | Must-Have |
|---|---|
| Cotton T-Shirts | ✅ |
| Scarf / Stole | ✅ |
| Sunglasses | ✅ |
| Comfy Footwear | ✅ |
| Power Adapter (Type C/D/M) | ✅ |
| Umbrella / Rain Jacket (Monsoon) | ✅ |
| Moisturizer & Sunscreen | ✅ |
🎒 Where to Shop in Delhi for Clothing
- Budget Finds: Sarojini Nagar, Janpath, Paharganj
- Ethnic Elegance: FabIndia, Anokhi, Cottons
- Trendy Wear: Select Citywalk, DLF Promenade, H&M, Uniqlo
🏁 Final Word: Dress to Explore, Respect, and Enjoy
Delhi’s style is a mix of tradition and trend. So pack clothes that respect the city’s vibe while keeping you comfortable for all the walking, eating, and exploring. And remember — if you forget something, Delhi’s markets will never let you down.