If you’re planning a trip to Iceland’s colorful capital, you’re probably wondering what to wear in Reykjavik. The city is stylish yet practical, modern yet rugged…just like the Icelandic landscape that surrounds it! Between coastal winds, sudden rain showers, cozy cafés, geothermal spas, and Northern Lights excursions, packing smart is essential.
This guide covers what to wear in Reykjavik year-round, including the basics, footwear, 10+ detailed outfit ideas, and a practical packing list so you’re ready for anything Iceland throws your way. So, start packing and have fun! This trip is once in a lifetime and you can be stylish while visiting.
What to Wear in Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik Outfit Ideas + Packing List
Understanding Reykjavik’s Style + Climate
Reykjavik weather is famously unpredictable. Even in summer, you can experience sunshine, wind, and rain in the same afternoon. Winters are cold but often milder than you might expect due to ocean currents, though wind chill is real. This can making packing and preparing difficult! It’s best to think polished and practical. In fact, style-wise, locals lean toward:
- Neutral colors (black, grey, navy, and other earth tones)
- Clean lines and minimalist silhouettes
- High-quality outerwear
- Functional pieces that can be layered
The Basics: Building Your Reykjavik Wardrobe
We think it’s important to know our foundational pieces before we dive into the actual outfit ideas. Think of them in four sections: base layers to regulate temperature, mid layers for layers and function, outwears to protect, and versatile bottoms for options. just know, when planning what to wear in Reykjavik, prioritize comfort, warmth, and flexibility over overly dressy items.
Base Layers: Merino wool tops and leggings are your best friend. They regulate temperature, resist odor, and keep you warm without bulk. Even in summer, lightweight layers help combat wind.
Mid Layers: Think: wool sweaters, fleece pullovers, lightweight insulted jackets. Icelandic wool sweaters (like the lopapesya style) are iconic and extremely functional. They add warmth and layers with looking cute!
Outerwear: A waterproof, windproof jacket is non-negotiable. Reykjavik wind can cut right through regular coats. In winter, opt for an insulated parka. In summer, a high-quality shell layered over a sweater works beautifully.
Versatile Bottoms: Think dark jeans, thermal leggings, water-resistant trousers and casual midi-skirts (but bring in tights in the cooler months as needed!). Having bottoms that are versatile can add variety to your outfits but still be functional.
Footwear: What Actually Works in Reykjavik
Footwear can make or break your trip! Be prepared for walking, snow, ice, sleet, slippery areas, and more. When packing consider:
Waterproof Boots: Top choices should be something you can wear year-round. Make sure they have insulted lining for the winter, good traction for icy sidewalks, and good ankle support for outdoor adventures. Pair with some wool socks as needed!
Stylish Ankle Boots: Great for dinner dates and museums. They can dress an outfit up! Make sure they go up to ankles for support and warmth, and wear socks with them. Wool preferred. And make the boots water-resistant if you can!
Sneakers: We only recommend packing or using sneakers in the dry, summer weather. And even with that, know weather is unpredictable so can you guarantee dry weather during summer? Waterproof sneakers are best, if you decide to use them!
Hiking Boots: If you plan any trips outside the city, like to the Golden Circle, bring proper hiking footwear! Traction cleats or ice grips are vital if you’re doing icy terrain, but regular insulation and non-slip soles work too!
Pro-Tip: Don’t forget to break in your shoes before your trip! You’ll be walking a lot, and comfortable footwear is crucial! And always opt out for leathered soles: they have no traction and can be dangerous on wet and icy terrain!
12 Reykjavik Outfit Ideas
1. The Classic Layered City Look
When looking to explore downtown Rwykavjik, think layers that are adjustable. Start with slim, dark jeans, a merino base layer, a chunky wool sweater, and a waterproof parka. This is also idea for walking by the harbor! Perfect since the layers trap heat while being adjustable. The dark jeans resist visible dirt and will always match too!
2. Cozy Cafe Minimalist
Reykjavik locals love understated elegance, so if you’re going coffee hopping near Hallgrimskirkja, start with black-straight leg trousers. Pair with a fine-knit sweater, and then add ankle boots. Don’t forget your long wool coat too! This look is polished but comfortable, truly perfect for visiting Hallgrímskirkja and nearby cafés.
3. Harbor Walk Wind-Proof Outfit
When exploring the waterfront or even visiting Sun Voyager you need to block the wind but still be able to walk! Coastal winds are strong, so be prepare! Start with thermal leggings under relaxed jeans. Put on a fleece mid-layer and then add a hooded waterproof jacket. This way you are prepared to fight the wind, but you’ll have free movement for walking and even photos!
4. Gold Circle Day Trip Ready
Weather changes quickly, especially outside the city. So, being prepared and practical is key. When doing day tours beyond the city to places like Thingvellier or Gullfoss, consider the following: a moisture-wicking base layer, and insulated jacket, hiking pants, and waterproof hiking boots. This can handle waterfall, light rain and even uneven terrain.
5. Summer Reykjavik Casual
Summer days are breezy, so when you’re exploring Laugavegur shopping streets or other hidden gems in the city, look for ways to not overdress. Straight-leg jeans, striped long-sleeve tee, and a light waterproof jacket is important. Pair with waterproof sneakers, but remember, sneakers can be a risk!
6. Winter Northern Lights Outfit
We all know the Northern Lights are a selling point for visiting Iceland. When doing a tour outside of the the city to go hunting for the Aurora, you want to think warm! You’ll be standing still in freezing temperatures. This demands insulation. Layer to keep warm with thermal base layers, fleece, insulated parka, snow boots and wool socks!
7. Smart-Casual Dinner Look
Dinner can be stylish, but it is still relaxed. Balance warmth with elegance where you can! Of you decide to dine in the city center, like near the Harpa Concert Hall consider something cute like a knit midi dress, thick tights, and heeled waterproof boots. Throw a tailored wool coat over it all to stay toasty!
8. Blue Lagoon Spa Outfit
We LOVE a good trip to the lagoons. But we also know that you have to get involved here, so easy-to-remove layers are important. Simplify changing! Begin with leggings and an oversized sweater. Wear your suit under it, and don’t forget slip-on waterproof shoes. Also bring a packable down jacket as needed, and maybe even an outfit to change into when done soaking! And consider going beyond the Blue Lagoon too… what about Sky Lagoon?
9. Museum + Rainy Day Combo
Go for polished yet practical with dark tones when exploring places like the National Museum, or even just to stay comfortable during a rainy city exploration experience. Begin with black jeans, a striped sweater, and a trench-style waterproof coat. Ankle boots are cute, but don’t slip in them! And know dark tones can also help cancel splashes from puddles.
10. Fall Transitional Layers
Early fall demands adaptable warmth as the weather is changing. We love a good day of September city wandering, but stay comfortable with it! Begin with a wool turtleneck. Pair with cropped trousers and wool socks with your leather boots. Cropped trousers may show off your stylish socks and boots for a splash of personality! Just make sure to not forget a mid-weight coat! If traveling in late fall, check out our more detailed article on the early winter advice for outfits!
11. Sporty Reykjavik Street Style
Athleisure wear blends seamlessly with the Icelandic minimalistic style! This vibe is perfect for a casual brunch or even something like a grocery run for your Airbnb. Something like leggings, an oversized hoodie, a long insulated vest, and chunky enamors are comfortable and cute. Just make sure you’re using water-resistant materials!
12. Snowy City Explorer
Sometimes it’s best to be practical. When you are visiting in the winter and sightseeing after snowfall, be warm. Insulated snow pants are smart (especially if it has been heavy snow!). Pair with thermal tops, wool sweaters, parkas and snow boots. It may not be glamorous, but they solve serious weather challenges!
Key Accessories You Shouldn’t Forget
Accessories in Iceland are not just aesthetic– they’re functional! Don’t forget to think about accessories that will be useful year-round, that make life easier and funner. Small accessories can make the biggest difference in comfort! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wool Beanie: protect yourself from the wool year-round
- Touchscreen Gloves: cold hands and phone photography= beyond difficult
- Thick Wool Socks: don’t get cold feet! Literally!
- Crossbody Waterproof Bag: Protect your valuables from sudden rain
- Swimsuit: geothermal pools are a part of daily life in Reykjavik. Be prepared!
- Sunglasses: The winter sun reflects off snow and can be bright!
Final Thoughts on What to Wear in Reykjavik
Reykjavik style is effortless, functional, and quietly cool. The key to mastering what to wear in Reykjavik is smart layering, waterproof essentials, and neutral pieces that mix and match easily. You don’t need overly technical expedition gear for the city—but you do need weather-ready basics. Think warmth without bulk, waterproof without sacrificing style, and comfortable enough for long walks. Pack thoughtfully, embrace minimalist layers, and you’ll feel perfectly at home wandering Reykjavik’s colorful streets—rain, wind, or sunshine.
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