What to Wear in Los Angeles in Winter: Month-by-Month Outfit Guide
Los Angeles in winter sits in the 45 to 70°F range. This is the layer-by-layer outfit guide for Los Angeles's winter weather — what to wear, what to pack for a visit, and the local context that shapes the recommendations.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Los Angeles in winter — December, January, February. December through February. 60-70°F days, 45-55°F nights. Occasional rain. A light sweater plus jacket handles most days. No parka necessary unless you are heading to the mountains. The temperature range is the headline; what you actually feel depends on humidity, wind, and what indoor spaces you'll cycle through.
THE FOUNDATION LAYER
A standard cotton or synthetic shirt is fine, with a long sleeve for the cold end of the range. The base layer is comfort, not survival.
THE MID LAYER
A cardigan, light fleece, or vest — pick based on whether you'll be active or stationary outdoors.
THE OUTERWEAR
Trench coat, light wool blazer, denim jacket, or a packable shell. Layer the outerwear, don't replace it.
ACCESSORIES
A scarf for cool mornings, a packable umbrella, and shoes you can walk in for an hour.
WHAT TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO LOS ANGELES IN WINTER
Three layer permutations covering the 45 to 70°F range, plus accessories. If your trip spans the season's edge (late November or early March), pack toward the cooler end of the range — overestimating warmth is easier to recover from than underestimating.
LOCAL CONTEXT
Microclimates matter — Santa Monica is often 15°F cooler than downtown LA on the same day. Check the forecast for your specific neighborhood. Evening drops are real — always carry a light layer.