Best Fall Outfits to Wear in Salt Lake City

You probably landed on this article because you have plans to travel to Salt Lake City this fall. If so, welcome, and you will enjoy Utah! I have lived in Northern Utah for the past 12 years and love everything this beautiful state has to offer! If you’re looking for more recommendations, feel free to message me on Instagram and I’ll respond quickly there. Otherwise, read on to find out the best outfits to wear in Salt Lake City, Utah during the fall months.

What the Weather is like in SLC, Utah During the Fall Months

Firstly, let me just say that the weather in Northern Utah can be a bit unpredictable. Salt Lake City is considered a “high desert” meaning it is a desert at a higher elevation, often leading to dryness and extreme heat or cold depending on the time of year. Fall is a wonderful time to visit the mountains, as the summer temperatures have cooled and the foliage is a range of beautiful colors. In a typical year, fall weather begins near the end of September, hitting the peak in early November. However, it’s not uncharacteristic to get cold or warm fronts (week long bouts of sun or snow) randomly throughout that time, especially in October.

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Outfits to Wear in Salt Lake City

Knowing that there can be extremes in the weather, packing can be tough for SLC in the fall. However, there are a few essential outfit styles that will have you prepared to explore the city and mountain views!

Sneakers and Boots

Most will say that Salt Lake isn’t a walkable city because the streets are so wide and the urban spread. However, there are a few areas like the heart of Downtown SLC and 9th and 9th that provide plenty of sites and stores to see on foot! Practical shoes are a must in Utah, and you won’t find many people walking around in heels (unless they’re on a business lunch). Sneakers and boots are a fan favorite of this growing city, especially in the fall. Avoid bringing all open-toe shoes during these months, though.

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Cardigans, Fall Sweaters and Light Jackets

There is as bit of a joke that goes like, ” Welcome to Utah! Winter starts at 6 am, Spring starts at 10 am, Summer is at 2 pm, and Fall is around 4 pm.” Utah’s weather is not only unpredictable weekly, but can also change temperatures pretty quickly throughout the day. Layers are your best friend and will prevent getting a chill or heat stroke while you’re out and about exploring the city. Cardigans and light jackets are perfect for fall outfits to wear in Salt Lake City. You’ll also feel right at home in a cottagecore fit!

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Denim Jeans and Structured Pants

Honestly, it should come as no surprise that a Western state loves a good pair of denim jeans! Autumn is no exception to this rule and is a great time to show off your favorite pair of skinny jeans. Utahn’s are also keen on wearing trendy pants that can be dressed up or down. Might I suggest you try any of these fall green nails to match your pair of jeans?

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Midi Skirts and Maxi Dresses

Along with denim, Utah is definitely known for it’s casual, laid-back style of dressing. Midi skirts (skirts that go just below the knee) and maxi dresses (full length dresses hitting at the ankle) are always trending in this state! The beauty of either of these articles of clothing is that they offer more of a temperature control for the fluctuating fall weather. This is the perfect place to style any of your sustainable dresses.

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Other Items to Pack if Visiting Utah

If you’re headed to Utah, chances are you have plans to visit the great outdoors just as much as the downtown area. This state has many, gorgeous parks and hiking trails that are a must-see while in town. Even better, many of the state parks are just a short drive from the Downtown SLC area! Here are some things you should pack if you plan to do a mountain walkabout.

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Hiking Boots or Workout Tennis Shoes

A good pair of exercise shoes are a must for Utah adventures! Many of the hikes have exposed rocks that require scambling up, and hiking boots with proper tread are even better to prevent slips and falls.

Reusable Water Bottle

Traversing the wild country is fun, but can often take hours. Bring plenty of water! It’s preferred that a reusable water bottle or CamelBak is used to prevent litter on the trails.

Sunscreen and Bug Repellant

Often, visitors are shocked at how quickly a sunburn can appear when in the mountains. The higher elevation leaves more exposure to UV rays; sunscreen is a necessity! Don’t forget to also pack bug repellant if you’re visiting a heavily wooded area. It’s not uncommon to come back from a hike with lots of bites if bug spray wasn’t used.

Small Backpack or Tote

My husband and I are weekly hikers in the warmer seasons and a backpack is essential to our escapades! Expert hikers know to always be prepared with a backpack full of emergency necessities.

Photography Gear

Without a doubt, you will see unbelievable views in Northern Utah! The cityscape is wonderful, the mountain views are stunning, and the fall leaves are sure to take your breath away. Bring a camera to capture all of these moments and memories! Of course, you’ll want one of the best camera backpacks for travel.