What to Wear in Mexico City: Women’s Packing List & Outfits
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Did you know there’s an unofficial dress code in Mexico City? If you’re planning to visit Ciudad de México (CDMX), read this article first. This article breaks down what to wear in Mexico City with stylish outfit ideas for women and a full packing list from my most recent trip so you’ll be all set for your trip!
And if you enjoy this post, you’ll love my complete Mexico City itinerary & travel guide!
What is Mexico City style?
CDMX style is distinctly urban and reminded me more of my solo trips to New York City than any of the Mexican cities I’ve visited in the Yucatán.
As the largest city in North America, and Mexico’s capitol, the street style is on par with major hubs like NYC and Paris. If you’re a sneaker head, you’ll love it here!
So, how do locals dress in Mexico City? The dress code is often described as more formal and Mediterranean and, while the former is accurate, I found that people tend to dress edgier. Black is the most common color I saw people wearing and, even on warm spring days, you’ll see leather jackets. In my opinion, definitely more rock & roll and artsy than preppy.
Packing for a springtime trip to CDMX requires layers. The days are generally warm, with passing rain, and evenings are cool. And besides the weather, you can go from a chic rooftop scene to a low-key hole in the wall in a matter of minutes.
For outfit ideas for all kinds of Mexican destinations, check out my guide to Mexico vacation outfits!
Women’s Clothes to Pack for Mexico City
What to pack for Mexico city for a week: for a six day trip, I packed nine outfits, excluding travel clothes. I recommend grabbing items from the list below that you can mix and match for different settings and temperatures.
Breezy Dresses and Skirts made from natural fabrics like cotton and silk are perfect for spring through fall in Mexico City. I love how versatile this tee shirt dress and this silk slip dress are–both from Quince!
Comfortable Walking Sneakers that are stylish and easy to clean–classic Stan Smiths are my go-to choice.
Crossbody or Bum Bag to keep your belongings accessible to you but safe from pickpockets around busy tourist attractions. I like this more casual bum bag and this leather bag for a more dressed up look.
Jackets and Sweaters to drape over your shoulders during the day and wear properly at night when it gets chilly. I recommend an oversized denim, a moto jacket, and/or a men’s button down shirt.
Jeans and Trousers, which I felt the need to note because do people wear jeans in Mexico City is a common question on these internet streets and the answer is simply yes.
Polished Pair of Heels for evenings out. Grab shoes that are already broken in, especially if you plan to go dancing!
Sunglasses will protect your eyes as you’re out and about AND complete your look.
Tops like tanks, bodysuits, graphic tees, and collared blouses are all solid options.
Visor or Ball Cap if you’re visiting any sunny sites like Templo Mayor. This wide visor comes in multiple colors, has been my go to several trips, and gets compliments every single time.
I packed all of my CDMX outfits and essentials into just a carry-on bag and backpack. Here are my carry on packing tips, so you can do the same!
Mexico City Packing List Essentials
Cash to exchange for pesos. I recommend doing this at the airport when you arrive. Not every single business will accept cards but almost everywhere takes pesos.
Hotel Door Stopper for peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling alone!
Power Bank for long days out shopping and site-seeing.
Travel Credit Card so you can get rewarded for your vacation spending! Here’s my favorite travel card review if you don’t have one yet.
Travel Size Toiletries and Cosmetics including hand sanitizer and sunscreen because Mexico City is one of the sunniest big cities I’ve ever visited.
Do you know where to stay during your Mexico City vacation? Check out my honest review of a new boutique hotel in Roma Norte!
What not to wear in Mexico City?
I love making a style statement but when I’m traveling on my own, I try to balance local aesthetic with what I feel most myself in so as not to draw unwanted attention. Here are common questions about dressing in the CDMX aesthetic as a traveler.
Can you wear shorts in Mexico City?
There’s a lot of advice stating not to wear shorts or sandals to avoid looking like a tourist, which I think is dated. Especially in happening neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa, I saw several folks of all genders wearing shorts, though it was by no means a majority. I recommend opting for more tailored shorts if you do wear them.
Should I pack sandals?
Sandals are a slightly different story and close-toed shoes are definitely the primary shoe option. And, honestly, as with any big city, your feet will get dirty walking around so enclosed shoes are the best bet. Chic and structured sandals are not off limits but you likely won’t see any flip flops worn in Mexico City.
Dressing to blend in while being true to your personal style is one of my top solo travel tips for women!
Women’s Outfits to Wear in Mexico City
My favorite part of planning for travel is putting together looks that reflect my style and work for the unique experiences tied to each destination. But not everybody takes joy in that. So, use these outfit ideas as inspiration to style your trip to Mexico City.
I wore this easy outfit to spend a day in Coyoacán Mexico City, including a walking photo shoot experience and it was just perfect!
Check out all my favorite Mexico City restaurants, while you’re here!
A hands-free bag with a zipper was a must for walking around Templo Mayor and El Centro Histórico, which is a super busy tourist hot spot. And it was hot with very little shade so sunglasses and even a hat are necessary!
I know I mentioned black as the dominant color in CDMX dressing but don’t be afraid to pack a colorful statement! I’m a fan of capsule travel wardrobes and find that having a common thread through my outfits makes packing easier.
For this trip, pops of pink that common thread via shoes, a handbag, and this bright floral maxi dress.
What to Wear for CDMX Excursions
What to wear to the pyramids in Mexico City: Scarf | Boyfriend Jacket | Bodysuit | Leggings
There are plenty of green spaces in Mexico City but you won’t need to pack any athlesiure unless you venture out to the Teotihuacan hot air balloon experience, which I highly recommend! Although there’s almost no shade, it isn’t blazing hot in the springtime so bring a jacket, too.
Similarly, since CDMX is not a beach town, swimwear is only a must if you plan to dip into your hotel’s pool. That said, a visit to Tolantongo Hot Springs are about three hours away and a bucket list experience that I wholeheartedly recommend. You will need a swimsuit for this excursion.
More Mexican Destination Outfit Guides
Now that you know how to dress in Mexico City and can build your Mexico City travel packing list, I hope you have the very best trip. If you have any questions, I’m happy to answer them in the comments. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Thanks so much for sharing your very helpful advice and your excellent fashion sensibilities! Packing now foe a trip this week!
You’re so welcome, Rachal! Hope you enjoyed your trip.
I love the hot pink crossbody you have on in these photos! Would love if you could share what bag it is and where I might be able to get one 🙂
Hi, Coco! Sorry I’m just seeing your comment. The hot pink crossbody bag is from Brandon Blackwood, specifically his Brandon Blackwood Foundation ESR line. Hope that helps!