From Afternoon Tea to Soho Nights: The Ultimate Luxe Packing Guide for London
Shoreditch in the afternoon for tea? Or are you watching rugby at a pub with that lovely London boy? But you have no idea what to wear? I got you, What to wear in London 101. I am going to make this very simple for you, presenting a list of high-fashion essentials in London and being your London packing guide.
Home to legendary designers like Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, etc, London values the balance between tradition and rebellion. It’s high-end, it’s classy, and it’s tailored for grey skies, bright lights, and dazzling nights. Pro-tip- the British weather can conjure up a rainy storm or a sunny afternoon all in one day, so be sure to dress likewise.
1. Jeans
A good pair of jeans goes a long way, they’re simple, casual and just perfect for a walk in the Camden Market or afternoon tea, while they’re perfectly comfortable with a sequin top for an all-nighter party. Good to wear in both the rain and hot sun, jeans are an essential for a London packing guide.
Where to shop:-
https://shop.mango.com/gb/en/p/women/jeans/skinny–slim/fiona-flared-mid-rise-jeans_87090442
2. Trench Coats
You can never go wrong with a trench coat in London. It’s a “what to wear in London” staple, so much that Daniel Lee has set trench coats front and centre at his collection, British Heavyweight Burberry practically built its name on them.
No London packing guide is complete without a trench coat. It effortlessly elevates every outfit, making it look high-end and luxurious, and it is suited for the fickle weather changes in London.
Where to shop:-
https://uk.burberry.com/long-kensington-heritage-trench-coat-p80794121
3. Chunky knits
The beloved knit is an indispensable part of any staple England fashion, and anyone who has spent a good amount of time in England knows this. Wondering what to wear in London?
A cable knit, which originates from the Irish Aran Islands, but is loved throughout the UK perfect for the cold weather that is often the case in London. Go for neutral colours like beige or grey, or you can opt for preppy and quirky ones too that are currently in trend.
Where to shop:-
https://www.zara.com/uk/en/cable-knit-sweater-p06771046.html
https://rowingblazers.com/collections/sweaters/products/womens-wool-sheep-sweater-wwfw23w1502
Chunky Loafers, High Heeled Boots and Pumps
Loafers are a certified London It-girl essential. The ultimate London packing guide would be incomplete without them, they are casual and yet the perfect amount of formal, wearable in any weather and on any outfit. For all your Soho party nights, high-heeled boots are your go-to: sleek, formal, and unapologetically luxurious.
A great pair keeps your look effortlessly fresh with just the right hint of rebellion. And don’t forget pumps—for pub nights or office mornings, they add a subtle, stylish touch without making you feel overdressed.
Where to shop:-
Loafers
High-heeled boots
Pumps
https://www.marksandspencer.com/strappy-pointed-ballet-pumps/p/clp60727322?color=SILVER
4. Gingham Dress
A classic British gingham dress is a staple in any London packing guide. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, and with the right heels and makeup, it effortlessly transitions into a Soho pub night look. While it’s a must-have summer essential in the UK, it also works beautifully in winter—just layer it under a chic trench coat.
Where to shop:-
https://www.zara.com/uk/en/gingham-midi-dress-p03067329.html?v1=427873353&gQT=1
https://www.zara.com/uk/en/gingham-dress-p04661327.html?v1=427873364
https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/dresses/blue-gingham-bow-back-midi-dress/p/919082149
5. Luxury umbrella
What to wear in London? An umbrella! I know you are laughing, but come on, guys, this is serious, remember the weather is unpredictable— I don’t want you all soaking in those lovely Manolo Blahnik pumps or that cutesy Zara dress, I mean, come on, the chances of getting a London boy hold out that umbrella for you..
Um, I wouldn’t be so sure of that, so get that pretty umbrella and relax wherever you are.
Where to shop:-
https://www.james-smith.co.uk/product/umbrellas/sun-umbrellas/for-gentlemen/malacca-crook-2/
https://www.barbour.com/barbour-tartan-mini-umbrella-uac0201tn11
6. Layered jewellery
London packing guide bonus—a trendy accessory that has dominated the world of styling for generations, you cannot skip those cute and elegant necklaces. Every cute charm and necklace adds personality to your stack of jewellery, making it curated for you.
Where to shop:-
https://www.jessicamccormack.com/products/tattoo-diamond-and-blackened-gold-pendant
https://www.missoma.com/products/puffy-heart-pendant-necklace-18ct-gold-plated
And that’s it, your exclusive London packing guide curated to the taste of London but matched to your comfort and style. Now you know where to shop and what to wear in London, so even if you forget that umbrella, hopefully the cute London boy will lend one to you.
