What to Pack and Wear for Your Visit
- Layer, Baby, Layer: As we alluded above, layers are key for spring in Napa Valley. Sunny days in the high 60s mean it is absolutely time to break out the sundresses, but be sure to bring a cute cardigan or denim jacket to take on and off throughout the day. You’ll want to keep your layers light, because you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, and won’t want to have to carry a heavy coat all day.
(On the topic of walking, it’s also important to note that comfortable shoes are a must. Sandals, flats, even sneakers are all perfectly acceptable, but maybe leave the mile-high heels at home this trip.)
- Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking: And we don’t mean that sarcastically. Napa Valley is a wildflower wonderland, so you’ll fit right in with the environment if you’re also decked out in pretty petals. This doesn’t just go for the ladies, either — you’ll find plenty of fashionable men’s items for sale in Napa Valley that feature vibrant florals, too.
- Sip in the Sunshine, but Wear Sunscreen: No one likes a sunburn, and the ones you earn on vacation are especially ill-timed. Even if you don’t think you’ll be spending time in the sun, it’s best to wear a layer of sunscreen each day, as al fresco dining and outdoor winery tours might have you soaking in more rays than you realize.
- Don’t Forget that Swimsuit: While we wouldn’t recommend diving headfirst into the Napa River, there are still plenty of opportunities where a swimsuit will come in handy. Whether you’re drifting down the river on a paddleboarding adventure, soaking in your hotel’s hot tub, or enjoying a post-treatment dip in the spa pool, you’ll be glad you thought to bring your bikini.
- Skip the Scents: Trust us, the smell of wild mustard blooms and mouthwateringly enticing eats will be enough to occupy your nose on their own. Plus, as any wine enthusiast will tell you, scent is a vital part of wine tasting. Wearing strong perfumes, cologne, or even scented lotion can muddle the experience, for you and everyone you’re with. Leave your signature scents at home for this trip!
Wine Country Casual, Defined
Let’s address what most of you are probably wondering. So, can you wear jeans?
Short answer? Of course.
The longer answer is that here in Napa Valley, we practice what we call “wine country casual.” Jeans are absolutely acceptable year-round, and for many Napa Valley locals, they’re essential wardrobe staples. Some wineries and tasting rooms might lean more upscale, but even at those, a darker wash of denim is all you need.
Essentially, wine country casual is a stylish blend of sophistication and laid-back elegance, no matter the occasion or the season. Whether you're heading out for wine tasting, a concert, dinner, or a hike through the hills, wine country casual is effortlessly chic. What this looks like is up to your own interpretation. For the spring, you might reach for sundresses, patterned button-ups, strappy sandals, lacy cardigans, and pastel colors. (Hint: if you’re unsure, you can always check out Visit Napa Valley’s own Pinterest page, where we’ve got inspiration aplenty for your wine country getaway.)
Where to Shop in Napa Valley
To get the best sense of wine country casual, you need only look to Napa Valley’s wide array of chic boutiques, each offering a unique take on the region’s signature style. In particular, First Street in Downtown Napa is perfect for window shopping and snagging some souvenirs, and you’ll find many recognizable brands such as Free People, Anthropologie, Lululemon, and more. For a more laid-back, small-town feel, explore Calistoga’s charming main street for locally owned shops and artisan finds, or stroll through St. Helena for a mix of upscale boutiques, specialty food stores, and designer labels that capture the essence of Napa Valley style.
A Visit to Napa Valley is Always in Style
You can search for all the fashion advice you want, but in the end, there are no hard and fast rules regarding what you should wear in Napa Valley. It’s simply whatever you are most comfortable in! We love when visitors treat their vacation as an excuse to wear those pieces of their wardrobe that may not get as much mileage — so bring that dress that you love but worry is “too much.” As long as you’re confident in your look, you’ll fit right in. Plan your escape today and discover what springtime delights might be waiting for you right here in wine country.
