Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more
Fashion / Women's Clothes
By Lauren Levy, CNN Underscored
Published 11:02 AM EDT, Mon April 1, 2024
What’s in this guide
- For a casual look
- For going to work
- For comfort
- For spring weather
- For date night
- For a pop of color
- For when you don’t want to wear a jacket
- For working out
- For a trendy look
- For a timeless look
- For running errands
- For staying warm
- For playing with proportions
Whether you love or hate a good old rainy day, when the weather is dreary out, it’s easy to feel uninspired fashion-wise or not know how to dress best. But despite what the weather forecast shows, you don’t have to stick to the same old rainy-day “uniform,” and it’s easy to nail a variety of cute rainy-day outfits depending on your mood and plans.
To help inspire some inclement-weather outfit ideas — outside of just a simple raincoat or rain boot — we asked stylists and fashion experts for tips as well as their favorite looks. And the one thing that all the best chic and stylish rainy-day outfits have in common: They’re practical too.
“On a rainy day, you obviously should lean into wearing waterproof fabrics, but I recommend layering pieces that are fashionable yet functional,” fashion expert Melissa Rivers says. “Investing in a pair of sleek, short rain boots that look like your regular ankle boots is a great way to elevate any rainy-day outfit. But you can never go wrong with the classic Hunter rain boots.”
To make shopping even easier, style coach Angela Brown adds that there are three simple things to keep in mind when looking for any fashionable yet functional rainy day outfits:
- Fabrics: A water-resistant outer layer is always a plus. “Nylon fibers are both water-resistant and durable — the perfect combo for a stylish rain jacket,” she says. “A polyester blend is also a great choice because of its wicking characteristic and ability to help keep you dry.”
- Layers: Wear an outer layer that can be removed and hung up to dry when you reach your destination. “When done correctly, layering will keep you both cute and comfortable,” she says. “With this in mind, you should wear no more than three layers, depending on the temperature.”
- Boots: There are so many stylish waterproof boots available these days, that you can’t go wrong with a range of boots on a rainy day. “Between a more traditional, classic tall rain boot, a low-cut bootie and even a lightweight waterproof hiking boot, avoiding puddles won’t be an issue,” she says.
Instead of letting the drab weather get you down, check out these stylist-approved rainy day outfit ideas.
For a casual look
One rainy day outfit idea is straight jeans tucked into knee-high Hunter boots, a classic sweater and finished with a great statement belt. “While I’d still top this off with a longer length coat to help keep your legs dry, a cropped trench coat or bomber would also be practical and look great with this look,” says fashion designer, senior global design director for Gap and founder of Vetted Jamie Lewin. “This outfit is great because it’s stylish, practical and works for anywhere your day takes you.”
“Cropped trenches are a huge trend this spring and look so great with jeans and boots,” Lewin says. “Plus the added bonus of their functionality in the rain. I also love the contrast belt on this one.”
“This belt pulls a classic outfit together and elevates it,” Lewin says. “The studs add a fun element to any outfit.”
To get the look for less, this belt from Etsy also features cool stud detailing.
“One cannot underestimate the level to which Hunter boots keep you dry,” Lewin says. “You can walk straight through puddles and come out dry. Plus, they come in so many fun colors and look great with jeans.”
For going to work
Wear a pretty dress with leather ankle or knee-high boots and a trench coat over top. “You’ll look feminine and put together outside and stay perfectly dry when you make it to your destination,” Lewin says. “This is a great option when you want to look a little more dressed up, like for work or a daytime event.”
“This is the creator of the trench coat and the top-of-the-line! This trench is the perfect length, made of water-resistant cotton fabric and has the classic Burberry plaid lining as well as all the trims,” Lewin says. “It’s a true investment piece that will last a lifetime.”
“This Zara dress is a great affordable option,” Lewin says. “I like it for the feminine, optimistic prints on a rainy day. The length is also perfect to layer under a trench coat and stay perfectly dry.”
“These boots are classic with a twist, and in black leather, they will hold up to a little rain without wear and tear,” Lewin says. “Staud makes the same boot in ankle and knee-high versions, depending on your preference.”
We also recommend this pointed toe Steve Madden style for $300 less.
For comfort
Pair a neutral yet chic trench coat with water-resistant sneakers and dark skinny jeans. “The trench coat provides protection against the elements while the water-resistant sneakers ensure your feet stay dry and the jeans hide dampness, making it a practical and fashionable choice,” says Stitch Fix stylist Ray Carter.
Wear this cinched-waist trench coat on wet days to look polished while staying dry.It's a flattering mid-length with a double-breasted silhouette.
These tan leather sneakers are waterproof, giving you a casual alternative to the classic rain boot when you want to keep your feet dry on a dreary day.
For spring weather
Let water-resistant accessories and lots of layers bring your rainy-day outfit together. “This ensemble adds versatility with the Three Layer Rule so shoppers can easily adapt to changing weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for unpredictable spring weather,” Carter says.
“I love water-resistant accessories. Aside from your trusty umbrella, a bag like this neoprene version from Dagne Dover is perfect for on-the-go errands,” Carter says.
“Try a cargo jacket made from a nylon blend, like this one that offers style and function,” Carter says.
Under your jacket, Carter suggests pairing a classic cardigan with a seasonal dress, like this vibrant green option, for an extra layer.
For date night
Contrast a feminine dress with leather accessories for a trendy yet weather-friendly look. “If you want a little bit more than just denim, I love pairing a dress with leather boots and a leather jacket,” stylist Christina Stein says. “This will keep you dry and looking cool.”
Available in two colors, this simple satin slip dress makes a delicate base layer on a rainy day that you can easily dress up or down.
Stein adds some personality to her rainy-day look with these pointed-toe leather boots, complete with 3.4-inch heels.
Even when it’s wet outside, you can embrace the shacket trend with this faux-leather, drop-shoulder style.
For a pop of color
Mix neutrals with a pop of color for a stylish yet practical ensemble. “On a rainy day, you obviously should lean into wearing waterproof fabrics, but I recommend layering pieces that are fashionable yet functional,” Rivers says. “A great way to look chic in the rain is wearing a stylish trench coat in a neutral color, but I love pairing it with a pair of colorful rain boots to add a bit of fun.”
Rivers recommends this double-breasted trench coat, complete with raglan sleeves and storm flap detail. But the best part is it’s made from 100% cotton and 100% recycled polyester in the lining.
Just because you are going for a classic and reliable rain boot doesn’t mean you have to go for a typical or expected color.
“I also think a nice pair of thick socks is a must for a rainy-day outfit,” Rivers says. “When you’re wearing rubber boots, they don’t always keep the heat in, and there is nothing worse on an already crappy weather day than having cold feet.”
For when you don’t want to wear a jacket
Go for a casual chic look and ditch the traditional rain jacket for a statement poncho and boot. “This outfit strikes the perfect balance between style and comfort,” says sustainable style consultant Monica Diaz.
“The RainKiss Poncho offers waterproofing without sacrificing style, and it’s made of 100% recycled polyester in fun prints,” Diaz says. Brown is also a fan of the rain jacket alternative. “Its striking design is so versatile; on a rainy day, you can still express your personal style,” Brown says. “Whether you prefer jeans, leggings, slacks or a miniskirt, you can wear almost anything with this poncho.”
Diaz picks this Uniqlo dress for a rainy day for two reasons: It’s easy to wear, and it’s made from quick-drying material.
“The Acne Studio rain booties add a fashionable touch,” Diaz says. “It's a versatile look that can take you from running errands to meeting friends for coffee.”
We also love these pink rubber Chelsea boots from Camper that are about half the price when not on sale.
For working out
Lean into the sporty vibes instead of the traditional trench coat ensemble. “For those active rainy days, this outfit keeps you comfortable and dry,” Diaz says.
“The Columbia windbreaker is lightweight and breathable, perfect for outdoor activities,” Diaz says.
Diaz recommends rocking the waterproof windbreaker with these favorite Lululemon leggings to keep you moving in style and comfort despite any rain.
“With Lululemon leggings and Nike sneakers, you’ll be ready to tackle your workout and whatever the day throws at you and still look stylish,” Diaz says.
For a trendy look
Go for an equestrian twist on the traditional rainy-day outfit. Start with a solid pair of rain boots, then add layers with a bag that can withstand some moisture and complete the look with an elevated raincoat. These are the ingredients to the perfect rainy-day outfit, according to fashion designer and founder of T.Line, Britt Barkwell, who also suggests the splurge-worthy Legres 80 Leather Knee Boots.
“Start with a comfortable and fitted legging,” Barkwell says. “The key is to find a legging that you can easily wear a knee-high boot over.”
Barkwell suggests cuddling up with a cashmere sweater to help complete the look and keep warm without bulk. “Our Marlowe sweater is lightweight and layers beautifully over shirting (like the Isabel Shirt) or T-shirts,” she adds.
“Naghedi neoprene totes are perfect as they are durable and timeless,” arkwell says. “This Olive color is so gorgeous for spring too.”
For a timeless look
Stick to low-key neutrals that you can wear for years to come, from classic jeans to a timeless rain slicker. Darker colors won’t show wear and tear as much, but that doesn’t mean you only have to wear black. Chocolate brown, dove gray and olive green are versatile neutrals that add some dimension too.
“When I was kid, I had a rain slicker. I’m grown and what do I have? A rain slicker,” says fashion consultant Reginald Ferguson. “Go with Stutterheim. It’s double welded with a hood and [it comes in] enough colors, like jellybeans.”
“For pants, the best bet is a pair of Levi’s jeans,” he says. “Strong, durable and you’re not worried about getting them wet.”
To complete your look, Ferguson notes that you need a practical bag. “I would go with a tote bag that has a sealed zipper,” he says. “Rains does it for me.”
For running errands
Embrace the power of a great poncho with leggings and waterproof booties. “I like this look because it checks all the boxes: casual, comfortable, easy, lightweight, versatile and affordable,” Brown says. “On a rainy day, you can throw on a hooded poncho to run errands and not even have to worry about an umbrella.”
This top-rated poncho comes in 32 colors and prints, so you can go bold with a fun shade or keep it neutral. It features a hood, elastic cuffs and zippered pockets to help you stay dry.
“These leggings can be dressed up or dressed down. I love that they’re comfortable and still fashionable,” Brown says. “Plus, the fabric is lightweight and breathable — perfect for a rainy day.”
“These booties are a definite sign of spring,” Brown says. “I love the waterproof rubber on the outside and the padded cushioning on the inside. They are a safe choice when going out on a rainy day.”
For staying warm
“Another option is your favorite pair of sneakers and your favorite sweats, top it off with a fun hat,” Stein says. “It’ll keep you cozy when it’s cold and rainy.”
These classic T-toe soccer-inspired sneakers will help keep your feet comfortable (and dry) with synthetic and suede uppers and rubber soles.
Stay cozy and casual in this double-lined hoodie, complete with an oversized hood and kangaroo pocket.
This reversible bucket hat is gender neutral and comes in five colors. Plus, it’s made from a lightweight, sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric to help protect you from moisture.
For playing with proportions
Don’t shy away from length just because it’s raining. Instead, opt for a duster-meets-maxi-dress look. And you can always accessorize with an umbrella; Brown loves this pretty option that’s just $14 on Amazon.
“The polyester blend of this coat makes it perfect for those rainy days and wearing it automatically takes your look up a notch,” Brown says. “Because it’s lightweight, it keeps you dry and it’s still comfortable.”
“The flattering cut of this dress looks great on every body type,” Brown says. “I love that it can be worn alone, with a trench coat or with a cardigan — rain or shine!”
“Stylish with an anti-slip tread, this rain boot is my first choice for rainy weather,” Brown says. “There’s no reason to worry about falling on a wet surface or [if] your feet will stay dry when wearing these. Plus, they’re easy to clean — an added bonus.”
More recommendations
Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.
Thanks for signing up! Your welcome email is on its way.
Get the CNN Underscored newsletter
Receive product recommendations, reviews and deals three times a week.
By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. CNN and its affiliates may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.
By clicking 'Sign up', you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. CNN and its affiliates may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.
Opt out via the Privacy Policy.
