Packing for a Weekend in Charleston – What to Wear in Charleston SC

Wondering what to wear in Charleston, SC? With its coastal charm and southern flair, Charleston is one of the best destinations to dress for – and I’m here to help! Long before I ever lived in Charleston, I loooved vacationing in Charleston and going on girls trips to Charleston. Going to school in the South (at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), I roadtripped down to Charleston more times than I can count – and it has always been one of my absolute favorite places in the world. It’s also one of my favorite places to dress for in the world. I mean, how can you beat balmy Southern nights and warm coastal breezes? Charleston is in a league of its own when it comes to fashion and style, and packing as a newcomer coming to Charleston (or the South) for the first time can be intimidating! You’ll definitely notice that people dress up a bit more here, yes, even just walking downtown or heading to the beach, tourists and locals alike look ultra-chic, all the time. Welcome to Charleston! So what should you wear for a trip to Charleston? I’m here to help. 

Let’s break it down by a Charleston packing list, and then some outfit inspo (with shopping links!) to get you ready for your trip.

What to Wear in Charleston?

The Charleston style is conservative, feminine, and classic. But that doesn’t mean it’s not fun at the same time. This is where you break out your colors, pastels, and florals! The shopping in Charleston on King Street is some of the best you’ll find anywhere, and that world-class style is reflected on the locals. This is the town where girls get ready for two hours before even thinking of leaving the house. A town of women who wouldn’t be caught DEAD with their hair not perfectly blown out, and who pride themselves on having the best closets in the game. Intimidated yet? Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you’re dressed to impress for your weekend in Charleston.

Charleston is one of the most fashionable cities in the South, and nowhere is that more obvious than on King Street, where the shopping is some of the best in the country. This is a town where the locals dress to impress — hair blown out, nails done, and outfits that look effortlessly curated from a high-end boutique. Expect to see floral dresses, designer sunglasses, puff sleeves, sunny silhouettes, and an enviable lineup of day-to-night dresses just about everywhere you go.

If you’re spending a weekend in Charleston, I’d pack like you’re going to brunch, a garden party, and a gallery opening — all at once. Whether you’re strolling Rainbow Row, heading to a rooftop bar, or brunching at a waterfront spot, Charleston fashion is all about looking pulled-together without trying too hard. Effortlessly feminine and chic.

Not sure what to wear in Charleston? Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Below, I’m breaking down the ultimate Charleston packing list with everything you need to feel confident, comfortable, and chic all weekend long.

Packing list for a weekend in Charleston, staying 3 nights

Here’s what I would pack for Charleston for 3 days: 1 plane outfit, 3 daytime outfits, 3 going out/dinner outfits, 1 workout outfit, and 3 pairs of shoes : sneakers, wedges, and sandals you can walk in (these are my GO TO travel sandals – sooo comfy!), don’t forget cute swimwear, sunglasses, a sunhat, and a cute tote bag or beach bag. 

Cute Outfit Ideas for Charleston!

What to wear in Charleston in the Spring & Summer

Dresses, dresses, and more dresses. You’re going to want lightweight fabrics (like the 2 cotton dresses below) that will be breathable in the Charleston heat! And you’re likely going to want to skip the sleeves, or at least go short sleeve or off-the-shoulder!

 

 

An oyster print dress? Yes please!

The Charleston style is polished, feminine, and timeless with a splash of playful flair. Think colorful sundresses, tailored sets, floral prints, statement accessories, and your most compliment-worthy shoes. Pastels, linen, and pretty floral dresses are practically a uniform here, especially in the spring and summer months, but really all year round (just add a cute sweater)

Shop this dress 

 

 

 

Pictured here with this dress, this hat,and these shoes

 

 

 

 

 

my favorite suitcase!

 

  

 

How freaking adorable is this dress? It’s a to-die-for Saturday in Charleston look.

This dress is so perfect for Charleston – especially if you’re the bride on your bachelorette party wondering what to wear!

 

I love this little rattan backpack or crossbody! So cute for Spring and Summer. A VERY Charleston style.

 

I love travel visor because it’s packable and always looks so chic! Gotta protect yourself from the CHS sun!

Dinner, drinks & girl’s night out: 

Going out to dinner in Charleston and then out? This adorable dress just screams King Street to me. I love it, and would pair it with a pair of nude wedges for the ultimate South Carolina look.

I’m alllll about this jumpsuit! Especially if you’re in Charleston for a bachelorette party and getting all glammed up for a night on the town.

 

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What to wear to the beach in Charleston:

 

 

 

 

What to wear in Charleston in the Fall

Autumn brings sunshine, blue skies, and generally temperatures that average in the 70s. It’s a great time of year to break out some fall florals, chic jewel tones, and day-to-night outfits.  

 

and.. if you’re traveling to Charleston later in the fall when the weather starts to cool, these are some of my favorite picks

 

 

 

These are The South’s favorite hoops – in college, literally EVERY single girl had them. They’re still my go-to hoops.

 

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What to wear in Charleston in the Fall & Winter

 

 

What do guys wear in Charleston?

If you’re looking for some recommendations on what to wear as a guy in Charleston, here are a few of my favorite looks that would fit right in on King Street or at Isle of Palms:

This rose-pink linen shirt is a classic for Charleston.

or this perfect white linen shirt for cruising King

 

this is my recommendation

This oyster shirt!

A nighttime look

 

 

A beach look (or few)

You’re definitely going to want to bring your best swim trunks for the beaches of Charleston. Here are my picks for fresh swim trunks in high-quality fabrics and prints that look great in Charleston:

What to wear golfing in Charleston (or just around town)

Golf in Charleston is more than a game, it’s a lifestyle. You’ll want to break out the best vacation golf polos in fun and fresh prints to have some fun on the course with your boys. This isn’t a stale, boring city, it’s vibrant and colorful, so make sure you ‘play’ the part on the course.

These are the best golf polos for Charleston:

The Azaleas in this print is a subtle nod to the Masters

Palms and Charleston go hand in hand. This men’s golf polo would be a perfect pick for a day on the course.

The best weekenders & travel bags:

This is the best carry-on bag I’ve EVER had. Well worth every penny.

 

Check out my other posts!

The best Charleston influencers and bloggers

Vacation style guide for men

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Charleston, South Carolina

Restaurant Recommendations in Charleston : The best places to brunch & eat dinner in Charleston