What’s a great way to ruin a perfect day? Picture yourself in, say, a magical Tuscany vineyard; you’re strolling through a heavenly landscape, glass of Chianti Classico in hand, but the blister on your foot is killing you, and you keep having to pull down your mini skirt. Packing the right clothing is an important element of a successful trip.
A luxury wine tour is an experience that blends sophistication, travel, and the beauty of vineyard life. But if you’re new to this, here’s a quick overview of what a wine tour really is.
In such moments, you certainly want to feel and look your best. This doesn’t mean going over the top, but going with fits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Choosing what to wear on a wine tour is about striking the right balance: chic enough for private tasting rooms and elegant dinners, yet practical enough for vineyard strolls under the sun.
However, your wardrobe will depend on the season you plan your tour, your destination, and the general style of tour you’ve chosen. Some wine tours can be more oriented towards vineyard strolls and small family producers, while others are all about private tastings at prestige estates. This guide will show you how to dress smartly and combine fashion with function, so you can savor each glass without a second thought about your outfit.
The Golden Rule of Wine Tour Style
When deciding what to wear on a wine tour, the golden rule is simple: aim for chic and polished, but avoid looking overdressed. As elegant of an experience as a wine tour can be, it’s also a long day of exploring vineyards, walking on uneven paths and soil, and moving between indoor cellars and sunny terraces, so comfort is just as important as style.
Stick with breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or light blends that keep you comfortable while still looking refined. Neutral tones combined with these fabrics are timeless. Think creams, tans, navy, and soft earth shades that blend beautifully with the vineyard backdrop (and look great in photos).
When it comes to things to wear on a wine tour, shoes may be the crucial element, as footwear can make or break your day. Leave heels behind and opt instead for stylish flats, espadrilles, loafers, or even sneakers. They’ll keep you comfortable on gravel or grass without sacrificing elegance. Round out your look with accessories like sunglasses for outdoor tastings, a wide-brim hat for sun protection, and a light scarf that adds a touch of sophistication while being practical if the weather cools.
Seasonal Wine Tour Wardrobe Guide
Dressing for a wine tour includes adapting your look to the season and the destination. Let’s start with spring, when vineyards come alive and the weather is as refreshing as the wines you’ll taste.
Spring Wine Tours: Fresh Elegance Among the Vines
Spring weather is mild and breezy, with occasional showers, which makes layering your secret ingredient. If you’re wondering what to wear on a wine tasting tour in spring, aim for outfits that are light but can easily be made warmer with an added layer.
What to wear:
- Women:
- Midi dresses or tailored trousers with blouses
- Light trench coat or chic blazer
- Layers: silk scarf or a soft cardigan for cooler moments, even a denim jacket with some outfits
- Footwear: loafers or stylish flats
- Midi dresses or tailored trousers with blouses
- Men:
- Lightweight chinos or tailored trousers with button-down shirts
- A blazer or smart trench for added polish
- Layering options: thin sweater or scarf
- Footwear: leather loafers or elegant sneakers
- Lightweight chinos or tailored trousers with button-down shirts
Spring is a dream season for wine touring in Italy (Tuscany, Veneto, Piedmont), France (Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Burgundy), and Portugal (Dão, Bairrada, Douro Valley), where vineyards are budding and local festivals add even more charm to your journey.
Summer Wine Tours: Sun-Kissed Style Meets Comfort
Summer wine tours often mean hot, sunny days, vineyard walks, and alfresco tastings. The key is staying cool while looking polished. So, to answer what to wear on a summer wine tour, think breathable fabrics, sun-smart accessories, and shoes that handle vineyard terrain without disrupting style.
What to wear:
- Ladies:
- Flowing cotton, silk, or linen maxi sundresses
- Chic linen matching sets
- Linen or cotton jumpsuits
- Wide-brimmed hat for shade
- Stylish sunglasses
- Comfortable footwear: espadrilles, wedge sandals, or chic flats
- Flowing cotton, silk, or linen maxi sundresses
- Gentlemen:
- Lightweight linen or cotton shirts (button-downs or polos)
- Tailored shorts or chinos
- Panama hat or classic fedora
- Sunglasses
- Breathable footwear: loafers, espadrilles, or clean sneakers
- Lightweight linen or cotton shirts (button-downs or polos)
Summer is the perfect time for wine regions kissed by the Mediterranean sun. Go for Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Greece’s Cyclades, Spain’s Mallorca and Rioja, or classic USA regions like Sonoma, Napa Valley and Central California.
Fall Wine Tours: Harvest Season Chic
Fall wine tours bring crisp mornings in golden vineyard landscapes and the cozy experience of harvest season. Wondering what to wear on a wine tour in fall? Layered, earthy-toned outfits are your solution for both sophistication and comfort, letting you enjoy your tour in style.
What to wear:
- For Her:
- Knit dresses, wrap dresses, or tailored blazers with trousers
- Light coats or trench coats to elevate your look
- Earth tones: burgundy, olive, caramel, deep neutrals
- Footwear: ankle boots, loafers, or chic sneakers suitable for walking
- Knit dresses, wrap dresses, or tailored blazers with trousers
- For Him:
- Tailored blazers or smart jackets
- Chinos or dark trousers paired with shirts or lightweight sweaters
- Layered looks with scarves or vests for added warmth
- Footwear: leather loafers, ankle boots, or stylish sneakers
- Tailored blazers or smart jackets
Fall is ideal for regions that glow with harvest activity, including France’s Rhône Valley, the Languedoc, and Provence; Italy’s Piedmont and Tuscany; Spain’s Galicia and Northern Spain; and South America’s Chile and Argentina.
Winter Wine Tours: Cozy Elegance Indoors and Out
Winter wine tours bring crisp air, sometimes chilly vineyard walks, and cozy indoor tastings. When it comes to what to wear on a wine tour in winter, the key is layering stylish pieces that keep you warm. You want to be able to explore vineyards a bit without freezing, but also enjoy a fireside tasting.
What to Wear:
- Women’s Picks:
- Warm knitwear layered under a coat
- Wool trousers or midi skirts with tights
- Elegant boots, ankle or knee-length
- Accessories: cashmere scarves, leather gloves, and hats for extra warmth
- Men’s Picks:
- Tailored wool trousers with sweaters or collared shirts
- Coats or jackets for layering
- Leather boots or stylish sneakers suitable for winter terrain
- Accessories: scarves, leather gloves, and warm hats
Where to go: Winter is ideal for wine regions with mild temperatures yet cozy charm, including Portugal’s Alentejo and Lisbon, Italy’s Sicily and Piedmont, Oregon in the USA, and South Africa’s Cape Winelands.
Shoes Matter: What to Wear on Your Feet in the Vineyards
We want to once more highlight the importance of choosing the right shoes because experience shows that uncomfortable or unsuitable footwear can quickly ruin your mood on an otherwise perfect wine tour. Walking through vineyards on soil or pebbles and standing in tasting rooms requires practical footwear.
What Shoes to Wear on a Wine Tour
- Loafers: comfortable and polished for any season
- Espadrilles or wedge sandals: perfect for spring and summer tours
- Chic sneakers: versatile for long walks in any season
- Boots (ankle or knee-length): ideal for fall and winter, offering both warmth and stability
Only with proper footwear can you fully enjoy every step of your wine journey. Don’t sacrifice style, but don’t sacrifice your comfort either.
Regional Nuances: Dressing for Iconic Wine Destinations
When planning your wardrobe for a wine tour, the region matters just as much as the season. If you’re still deciding where to go, here’s how to choose the perfect wine tour destination.
Each destination has its style cues influenced by climate, culture, and local fashion. Dressing appropriately helps you feel confident and ready to enjoy without a hitch.
Europe:
- France & Italy: elegant, minimalist chic; fashion-conscious layering
- Spain & Portugal: bold colors and vibrant accessories that reflect local flair
- Germany & Central Europe: practical layering with a smart-casual approach
- Croatia & Greece: light Mediterranean resort style, breathable fabrics
South Africa & South America:
- South Africa: safari-inspired chic, wide-brim hats, versatile outfits for indoor and outdoor tastings
- Chile & Argentina: relaxed yet polished, layers for varied climates and changing weather
USA:
- Napa & Sonoma: California casual luxury, favoring linen, navy, and beige
- Oregon: cozy layers, rustic-chic pieces that pair well with vineyard walks
Accessories That Elevate Your Look:
- Hats: provide both sun protection and style upgrade; choose classic, “old money” inspired shapes for a look as luxurious as our wine tours
- Sunglasses: timeless frames that complement your outfit while protecting your eyes
- Scarves: lightweight silk in spring and summer, wool in fall and winter
- Bags: small crossbody; avoid oversized bags so you can move easily and keep your hands free
What Not to Wear on a Wine Tour
It might be even more important to know what wardrobe choices to avoid, since these could interfere with your comfort and tasting experience.
Wardrobe and style no-nos:
- High heels or stilettos that sink into grass or vineyard paths
- Overly casual attire: gym wear, flip-flops, ripped jeans or clothing that looks too sloppy
- Heavy fragrances that can overpower wine aromas
- Smudging lipstick that may require constant touch-ups
- Distracting logos or overly flashy accessories
- White clothing if you’re prone to spills, since you might have to walk with a glass of red wine
FAQs: Quick Style Answers for Wine Travelers
Q: What do you wear to a wine tour?
Choose outfits that are chic but comfortable enough for walking through vineyards. In summer, think flowing dresses, linen shirts, or lightweight trousers. In cooler months, layer a coat, cardigan or blazer over your outfit, and you can add a scarf for extra warmth.
Q: What is the dress code for a winery?
Most wineries lean smart casual with an elegant touch. For example, tailored trousers or midi skirts with blouses, or a maxi dress for women. Men can wear chinos or dark trousers with a button-down shirt or lightweight sweater. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Q: What shoes should you wear on a wine tour?
Stick to footwear that looks good but won’t sink into grass or dirt. Great options include loafers, espadrilles, low block heels, chic sneakers, or boots for cooler seasons.
Q: What to wear to a winery in 60-degree weather?
Layered looks work best. Try a lightweight sweater or blouse with a blazer or trench coat, paired with tailored pants or a midi dress. Closed-toe shoes like loafers, ankle boots, or sneakers keep you comfortable while walking through vineyards.
Conclusion: Effortless Style for a World of Wine
Dressing for a wine tour is all about feeling confident, comfortable, and chic. The best outfits are those that balance style with practicality, letting you enjoy every vineyard stroll, cellar visit, and tasting without compromise.
Ready to put your wardrobe (and palate) to good use? Explore our luxury wine tours across Europe, South America, South Africa, and the USA