What To Wear In Palm Springs

Nestled in the heart of California desert, Palm Springs serves up picturesque landscapes, vibrant colors and desert vibes, with a side of classic pool and palm trees. It’s an eclectic and chic desert destination perfect for a weekend getaway. Here is what to wear in Palm Springs for an unforgettable sun-soaked days, with a side of perfect palm springs attire.

palm springs outfits

Palm Springs Fashion

The style in Palm Springs is vibrant and colorful, but also practical for the intense weather. Palm springs attire is all about being comfortable in the desert heat, embracing pool attire and leaning into breathable fabrics.

The Weather in Palm Springs

During the summer months it gets extremely hot. In fact, temperatures may rise above 100 degrees. Experts recommend visiting Palm Springs in the fall, between September and November months or the spring, between April -June. During this time the weather is perfect and goes up to mid 80s, with a welcome drop in the evenings.

During the winter months, Palm Springs gets a little cooler and pool lounging, which is arguably the best Palm Springs activity isn’t as enjoyable.

However, this time around I visited during the off season in mid August and although it was extremely hot during the day, we did have a nice breeze and a few cooler hours in the morning.

Best time to visit is during peak season however, this is when you’ll be able to get the most out of your Palm Springs visit and enjoy all of what the desert has to offer.

Looking for itinerary ideas? Check out my Girls Weekend Getaway to Palm Springs post.

The Ultimate Packing Guide for a Trip to Palm Springs

  1. Poolside Perfection

First things first: you’re going to want to pack a few swimsuit and pool looks for this trip. Palm Springs is renowned for its luxurious pools and you want to be stylish poolside lounging.

One of my favorite items I packed was my Lack of Color wide brim hat—I used it daily to shield myself from the harsh desert sun. I also just got these sunglasses from Amazon and they were perfect for this vacation, lightweight and polarized.

I also purchased this crochet cover up set and it was cute for the pool and for a quick breakfast outing. Breathable and chic—Palm Springs clothes musts. This is another easy cover up I packed.

We spent the bulk of our days lounging by the pool, so I would say picking a great bathing suit and pool attire is key to a good Palm Springs packing list.

2. Activewear for Outdoor Adventure

If you’re planning to hike or bike around the picturesque desert trails, pack some cute yet functional activewear. Moisture-wicking fabrics, stylish leggings, and supportive sneakers will keep you comfortable and looking great. I packed my Amazon favorites in activewear and these nikes for our hiking adventure.

3. Evening Wear

Palm Springs has a vibrant nightlife, so even though it may seem like a sleepy desert town during the day. At night, Palm Springs comes alive and you can take the opportunity to dress to impress, or keep it casual, but still elevated resort style wear.

I packed lots of vibrant colored dresses, some breathable linen options, and fun heels. My most favorite thing I wore was this set I found on Amazon—it felt perfect for an evening in Palm Springs. I paired with my woven clutch and gold heels.

4. Flirty Dresses and Great Sets for Day Style

For daytime adventures like shopping in the Uptown Design District or grabbing brunch, pack a few flirty, easy-to-wear dresses. Think sundresses with fun patterns, or a colorful set.

5. Stylish Sandals and Heels

Comfort is key during the day, so pack a pair of your most comfortable sandals or espadrilles for exploring. For nights out or fancier events, bring along a pair of wedges. Palm Springs is all about effortless style, so opt for footwear that’s both chic and comfortable.

I’ve had these for several years and I still find them to be a perfect vacation shoe.

6. The Accessories Game

I packed a lot of heels for this trip, not because I really wanted to wear heels, but because I was with my girlfriends who are both much taller than me. I look like their tiny side kick unless I put on a proper heel.

In general however, I say you can get away with flats in Palm Springs, but you shouldn’t skip the accessories.

My beach tote, hat and some gold jewelry were some of my favorite things I packed for this trip. It made my outfits feel more glamorous and fun.

Also, don’t forget sunglasses and lots of sunscreen, but also a lightweight jacket at night (if you’re traveling during the high season months).

Alina Orozco

Alina Orozco is a freelance writer with a weakness for hot dogs, the beach, dinner parties and DIY projects. She lives in Orange County, California with her husband, their two boys and an oversized Beagle named Benny.