What to Wear in Buenos Aires: Packing List & Outfit Inspiration

What to wear in Buenos Aires is a question that every fashion-conscious girl asks herself before booking her flight to this beautiful city.

What to wear in Buenos Aires?

Are you planning to sightsee amazing history and architecture of BA? Go out to world-famous steakhouses and clubs? Or simply be a Parisian in the Paris of South America? In this blog post, I’ll give you all the information you need to pack the perfect Buenos Aires fir for any occasion. ( Including outfit inspiration and a packing list). You’ll look fabulous whether you’re exploring the colorful streets of La Boca or indulging in some mouth-watering steak at a fancy restaurant.

Pack the Perfect Outfits for an Unforgettable Trip to Buenos Aires

Packing for Buenos Aires can be a bit of a challenge. It’s also an opportunity to showcase your fashion sense and make a statement. After all, you’re going to one of South America’s most versatile and glamorous cities, often called the Paris of the continent.

Step onto the Streets of European-Inspired Glamour!

As soon as you step onto the streets of this bustling city, it’s easy to get lost in the sense of confusion.
One minute you’re strolling down streets that resemble Rome, the next it’s London. Then you’re transported to the cobblestone roads of Budapest.
But this city is more than just a nod to European architecture.

It’s a lifestyle – one that’s stylish, chic, and totally enviable. Locals (Portenos) exude a certain class and flair that’s hard to ignore.

If you’re looking for an excuse to wear that cute dress that might be too much for other cities in South America, then this is the perfect destination for you.

Explore Buenos Aires Through its Seasons: What to Wear and What to Expect

Before packing your bags for Buenos Aires, let’s take a look at the weather. As you might already know, Argentina seasons work in the opposite direction of the northern hemisphere.
When it’s winter in the US and in Europe, it is summertime in Buenos Aires and vice versa.

What do People in Buenos Aires Wear?

Buenos Aires is home to fashion-conscious Porteños who take pride in their European style. You’ll find that their fashion is closer to that of a Parisian or New Yorker than a Brazilian or Colombian.

Maxi Dress

When the summer heat reaches its peak in Buenos Aires, it’s tempting to embrace the shorts-and-tank-top uniform and call it a day. But before you give up on style altogether, consider the maxi dress. Not only is it the epitome of easy breezy style, but it’s also versatile enough to take you from strolls through the elegant streets of Recoleta to rooftop cocktails.

Plus, the flowy fabric will keep you cool and comfortable even when the temperature hits a stifling 90 degrees. So, next time the humidity is unbearable, don’t give up on style – embrace the maxi dress and conquer the heat-wave in style.

Maxi Romper

The sun is shining, the tango music is blaring, and the heat is unbearable. Keep it cool and comfortable. Opt for a wide leg jumpsuit or romper.

It’s the perfect solution for those who will be getting their steps in exploring all the gorgeous sights in the city or just want to lounge around comfortably while sipping a classic Argentine Malbec. Hop into a breezy, wide leg jumpsuit or a playful romper and get ready to take on Buenos Airesin style (and comfort!)

Tops:

Summer Sweater

Summer Sweater is the perfect addition to any outfit on those crisp spring days or for when the air conditioning is on full blast. A little stylish insurance policy against any unexpected drops in temperature. They’ll keep you cozy during those crisp spring days, warm you up on a chilly summer evening.

A relaxed-fit t-shirt is a must-have item to pack. It won’t cling to your body, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the day.

And for those extra hot days, don’t forget to pack an airy, sleeveless V-neck. This versatile top pairs well with any fitted bottom- even leggings.If the weather suddenly cools off, simply layer on a denim jacket for a laid-back, stylish look.

Classic white tee – truly a wardrobe staple that can take you from day to night. If you find the perfect one, you’ll look like a total rockstar without even trying.

Vegan Leather for changing weather

Vegan leather will come in handy when the forecast keeps changing. Not only is it eco-friendly, but also much easier on your wallet. Plus, it’s perfect for those days when the temperature is cool but not quite cold enough for a heavy jacket.

It’s lighter weight than regular leather, meaning you won’t feel like you’re suffocating in a wide-leg trouser or cozy knit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with both cozy knits and whisper-thin T-shirts.

Maxi skirt

In Buenos Aires, comfort and style go hand in hand. And what better way to achieve both than with a flowy, breezy maxi skirt? This timeless piece is the perfect staple for a hot summer day because it lets your skin breathe while still looking chic. Dress it up with a floral top and some strappy sandals for a more feminine look, or pair it with a graphic T-shirt and white sneakers for a casual yet edgy vibe.

Breezy wide-leg trousers

The ultimate wardrobe staple that never goes out of fashion and requires minimal effort to style. And versatile! Pair them with a graphic tee and sneakers for a casual daytime look, or dress them up with a blouse and heels for a night out. Plus, the light and airy material will keep you cool in the city’s soaring temperatures

Pants and Capris

When the colder months roll around in Buenos Aires, fashion becomes a lot simpler. Jeans and trousers become your happy place. No more fretting about what to wear, because with the right cool pants, sweater, and boots, you have the perfect outfit formula for staying stylish and warm. But, let’s be real, summer fashion can be a little more complicated.

Summer in Buenos Aires can be a tricky thing, especially when it comes to pants. The key is finding options that won’t suffocate your legs while still providing coverage in the balmy weather. It’s all about fabric and cut – you want to aim for pieces that are light and breezy, and opt for relaxed styles over tight ones.

But for those who love their black ensembles, fear not – linen fabric can still give you that sleek and sophisticated look without causing you to overheat.

Headscarf Silk Scarf

I hurriedly rushed to meet my friend Lucila, completely forgetting to brush my hair. I apologized frantically, “Oh crap, I was rushing to see you and didn’t even brush my hair.”

She just laughed. “Don’t worry about it,” she said. “No one will bat an eye at your hair. In Buenos Aires, humidity takes over and nobody cares what their hair looks like. Local women don’t waste their time on blowouts because the sweat and heat just undo all the hard work. They simply throw on a headscarf and call it a day.”

The silk scarf has got your back (or rather, your head) with its breathable and lightweight material. Not only does it instantly turn your humility-affected hair into a chic ‘do, but it also elevates your entire outfit to the next level of put-togetherness.

Whether you opt for a patterned or solid-colored rectangle or square scarf, the possibilities for wearing them seem endless. Bad hair day? No problem. Need protection against wind or rain? You’ve got it. On-the-go and need a polished look? Done and done.

Hands free bag

When it comes to Buenos Aires, it’s not just a matter of convenience, it’s a matter of safety. It’s the city’s reputation for pick pocketing and theft. A strap bag not only adds a touch of sophistication to your ensembles but also allows for carefree exploration without the hassle of a bulky bag weighing you down

Plus, who wants to be weighed down by a bulky purse or fumbling with a camera when you could be snapping pics with ease?

Shoes to wear in Buenos Aires

Summer:

Cute sandals that prioritize both fashion and walkability. These shoes come in all sorts of styles, from the fashionably ugly chunky variety to more sports-inspired versions. As well as minimalist naked sandals or leather sandals for maximum comfort.

Look for shoes with straps that will keep them securely on your feet while you explore the city. A sole that conforms to your arch is key, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. And don’t forget about adjustability – buckles or laces can help you achieve the perfect fit. By choosing shoes with these features, you can avoid blisters and enjoy all that Buenos Aires has to offer.

Mules: Not only do they offer effortless style, but they’re also incredibly versatile and comfortable. The best thing about mules is that they can be paired with almost everything in your wardrobe, making them perfect for exploring the city during the day or dancing the night away in a trendy Buenos Aires club.

Ankle boots and sneakers: Keep your toes warm but also fit the chic city vibe.Whether you’re a fan of the classic Chelsea boot, or prefer to elevate your look with a platform or kitten heel, there’s a shoe out there for you. The best part? These staples can be dressed up or down. Versatile and practical to pack!

Do’s

• Maxi dresses and rompers – perfect for summer heat.
• Summer sweaters, relaxed-fit t-shirts, and sleeveless tops – comfortable and versatile basics.
• Vegan leather – great option for changing weather.
• Maxi skirts, breezy wide-leg trousers, and pants/capris made of light, breezy fabric- comfy for summer.
• Headscarves and silk scarfs- perfect for humidity affected hair days
• Hands-free bags – practical and safe
• Cute sandals with straps, arch support, and adjustability- walking in style
• Mules, ankle boots, and sneakers

Dont’s

What NOT to wear in Buenos Aires

Don’t dress like a tourist: This means leaving those cargo pants, olive tones, backpacks, and trekking shoes at home. You might be thinking, “but those are all comfortable and convenient for traveling!” While that may be true, they will make you stick out like a sore thumb in Buenos Aires. And after all it’s a city so don’t wear what would be appropriate for Pataginia hiking in a cosmopolitan capital.

It’s best to stick with the clothes you would wear in your hometown, just to blend in a bit more. Trust me, when you feel comfortable, you feel more confident, and that’s key to enjoying all that Buenos Aires has to offer.

Short skirts, dresses or shorts:

Ditch the short dress or shorts. In warmer months the temperature hangs around 90 degrees, and the humidity can make you feel like you’re swimming through the air. Opt for loose-fitting midi dresses or capris. Here is why:

Sitting in a leather chair or couch in one of the many cafes will have you leaving a trail of sweat mixed with sunscreen or moisturizer – not exactly the chic look you were going for. And if you’re using a taxi – which is practically public transport in BA – you don’t want to be caught with your bare and sweaty legs on a dirty leather seat! So, unless you’re taking a leisurely stroll or doing it for the ‘gram, stay away from short dresses or shorts.

Caribbean flair: While it may be located in South America, it’s not all about the bold, vibrant colors like you would see in Colombia or Brazil. While it might be tempting to pack all of your ruffled, tropical jewelry and Caribbean-inspired flair, you might be better off leaving those items at home.

What to wear for a tango show or milonga in Buenos Aires?

If you’re planning on catching a tango show while traveling through Buenos Aires, you might be wondering what to wear. While there isn’t a strict dress code, business casual is generally the way to go. Locals tend to dress elegantly for the occasion, but that can mean different things to different people. Some opt for classy suits and dresses while others go for a more casual yet chic look.

How to dress for milonga night in Buenos Aires: The locals tend to dress elegantly, but what exactly that means can be open to interpretation.Some people show up in sharp suits and elegant dresses, while others opt for casual yet chic outfits. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that milonga nights don’t tend to be the place for extravagant or flashy attire.

If you plan to attend a milonga (a tango dance party), you can even sport a tango-style dress or fedora, but it’s best to research the venue first as each milonga has its own unique audience and vibe.

Spring and Autumn :If you’re visiting in spring or autumn, you can expect warm, sunny days with plenty of humidity. But don’t forget to pack a light sweater or cardigan for the cooler nights.

Summer: If you’re planning a getaway to Argentina during the summer months of December to February, get ready to break a sweat!

The temperatures can reach up to a scorching 35°C, making it crucial to pack light and breathable clothes if you plan on exploring Buenos Aires. And ladies, don’t forget to bring a head scarf and hat, because the humidity can leave your hair looking less than glamorous.

Winter:
Now, if you’re heading to Argentina during winter (June to August), you’re in for a chilly surprise. Temperatures can dip as low as 1°C at night, so pack accordingly.