What to wear in DC?
 

I'll be in Washington DC the first week of April. The weather seems so changeable right now that I don't know what to pack. Any suggestions from locals would really help.

You are right. It is very changeable. It could be 70 or it could be snowing. From one day to the next. It is unlikely that there would be any snow accumulation so I wouldn't bring boots. I also wouldn't only bring open shoes. Comfortable walking shoes and layers will be your best bet.

Short sleeves and a nice warm jacket. Expect weather to be anywhere from 45 - 80 degrees F.

I am assuming Holly is a woman's name so capri pants with sneakers are always a safe bet..I would bring a sleavless shirt (since it is suppose to be 75 there today) and then a long sleeve shirt or fleece for evening or if it is cooler. A pair of jeans is also always a safe bet but I second confortable shoes because there is so much walking there.

I'd say dress for 60-70 weather. Take a windbreaker/raincoat with you that contains a liner should it dip below 60 during the day. Along with that take a good umbrella. I lived in the D.C. area in the early and late 1980s and experienced this time of year.

I'd suggest looking at the long term forecast at www.weather.com the day before you leave to see what it will be like while you will be here.

The weather does change a lot this time of year, but I'd expect spring-like weather.

Enjoy the cherry blossoms. They are supposed to peak next weekend.

Karen

I agree with the suggestion of layers. We took my sister-in-law and a friend to DC in April: one day it rained torrentially all day long; another day it was clear and hot, around 80; the rest of the time it was cool and slightly overcast. Good shoes that don't mind getting wet and a good raincoat would be on my list! Have fun!

Thanks to everyone for the great suggestions. I went shopping today and picked up some comfortable, closed-toe shoes in case it rains. I also got a fleece lined raincoat and other clothes that can be layered. I'm hoping for nice spring weather, but I'll be prepared in case it gets cool. I'll also check the weather reports. Can't wait to go!

It was gorgeous here today...we're going for a bike ride through Rock Creek Park to the Tidal Basin tomorrow. Layers are to be packed. I hope you can just go around in shirtsleeves. Enjoy our beautiful city.

It was gorgeous here today...we're going for a bike ride through Rock Creek Park to the Tidal Basin tomorrow. Layers are to be packed. I hope you can just go around in shirtsleeves, but the weather forecast just said it's only going to be in 50s next week :( That raincoat sound like the perfect thing.