We’re all used to hearing about the scorchingly hot summers in Las Vegas, but surprisingly, few people realize just how chilly winter in the desert can be.
The winter months bring brisk air and colder nights, even if there is no snow. You’ll definitely want to bundle up when walking the Strip or gliding across the outdoor ice rink at The Cosmopolitan!
The good news? While it’s cold outside, the hotels, restaurants, show theaters, and nightlife spots on the Strip maintain that perfect, cozy indoor temperature. You even forget that it’s winter until you step back outside.
This guide has everything you need to know about winter fashion in Las Vegas—from chic outerwear for your evening strolls to stylish dinner outfits, clubbing looks, and what to wear when hitting the best cocktail bars or catching a show.
What is Las Vegas in the winter like?
If your trip happens to take place between the months of November to February, you’re going to want to pack for Vegas with cold days and nights in mind.
If you didn’t already know, desert winters can be quite COLD. Here’s what each month looks like in a nutshell:
- Average Temps in November: High of 70°F (21°C), low of 47°F (8°C)
- Average Temps in December: High of 60°F (16°C), low of 27°F (-3°C)
- Average Temps in January: High of 59°F (15°C), low of 28°F (-2°C)
- Average Temps in February: High of 66°F (19°C), low of 33°F (1°C)
As you can see, Vegas hovers around the mid-50s to 60s during the day. But it can be windy. It will be nice for you if you are coming from way colder places like Europe, New York, or Wisconsin. But if you’re coming from warmer places like LA, Louisiana, Hawaii, or Florida, you will feel like you’re freezing.
If you’re staying indoors, you won’t need more than a sweater, cardigan, or light jacket.
But if you’ll be walking outdoors for any length of time, you’ll definitely want to bring some cute statement jackets because you’ll be bundled up until you get indoors. Don’t forget to pack a jacket, a beanie, and even a scarf for your trip.
WHAT TO WEAR TO LAS VEGAS IN THE WINTER
Here is some general inspiration on ways to stay looking cute while also preventing yourself from freezing to death.
Pairing thicker dresses with boots, jumpsuits with heels, or wearing oversized jackets with detailing such as feathers, sherpa lining, or faux fur can be cute and weather-appropriate.
For a more casual look, a simple sweater with a pair of jeans will do too.
Remember, the indoor temps at the hotels are usually set intentionally. You won’t need to be bundled up when you’re indoors.
Once you head outdoors, you’re going to want to layer on those cold-weather accessories:
CUTE OUTFITS FOR DINNER + SHOWS + COCKTAILS
When night falls, that’s when the fancy nighttime attire comes out! For those looking to go out to the casinos, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, this is when you can show off your finest threads!
What to wear to cocktail bars: For more upscale bars, it’s best to dress up—anything stylish and chic works. Avoid sneakers, sweatpants, or baggy clothes. A dress, romper, or jumpsuit with heels or strappy sandals is a great option.
What to wear to a nice restaurant: If you’re dining at your dream restaurant, attending a fancy group dinner, or celebrating a special occasion at an upscale spot, pack a nice dress or two for the occasion.
What to wear to a Las Vegas show: Since most Las Vegas shows happen in the evening, you’ll likely be wearing the same outfit from dinner—and people love to dress up for their shows! Much like the outfits you see at big-name concerts, expect cocktail dresses paired with boots, flats, or heels, or a stylish top with versatile pants.
Venues in Las Vegas will have the heater on in the winter, so you can leave the thick coats and puffer jackets in your hotel room. Go with something a little lighter for indoor situations.
Getting dressed up is part of the Vegas experience! Here are some looks/outfit ideas to get you started.
CUTE DRESSES FOR THE NIGHTCLUBS
When it comes to preparing for nightlife in Vegas, dressing up is half the fun! You can wear casual clothing at home — so while you’re in Vegas, take this opportunity to get dolled up and dress to impress.
Look for LBDs (little black dresses), cocktail dresses, bandage dresses, sexy cutout dresses, or pair a cute top with a mini skirt. Get wild with dress colors or go with a simple black dress, the choice is yours!
Just remember, no sweatpants or baggy clothing unless you have loads of money and can pay your way in.
Not sure if your outfit will be acceptable? Here are some typical dress code rules you can follow:
- Ladies: No flip flops or athletic wear. Flat sandals are OK as long as there is a strap that goes around the heel of the foot. No sheer tops or bottoms.
- Guys: No work boots or athletic shoes (Jordans, Adidas, etc.). Jeans are OK. Collared shirt, V-necks, and nice t-shirts are acceptable. No hats.
But wait it’s winter. Should I bring a jacket to the club?
This is entirely up to you. On the one hand, walking in and out of hotels to get from one place to the next is hauntingly cold without a jacket. On the other, you’re definitely not going to want it once you’re inside the club.
Some people will wear their coats while getting from point A to point B and coat-check their outerwear once they get to the nightclub. If you have money to spare for coat-check, more power to you!
The price of coat check varies from night to night and club to club, but you can typically expect it to cost anywhere from $5 to $15.
Figuring out how you plan on getting around will also help you decide on whether to bring a jacket or not.
- Plan on taking taxis or Uber/Lyft? At most, you’ll be in the cold for 10 seconds while getting from the hotel lobby into the car.
- Plan on walking from one hotel to another? If the hotels are not entirely connected (meaning you’re going to have to exit to the outdoors and brave the cold until you enter the next hotel), you’ll probably want to bring a jacket.
WALKING SHOES
Plan on walking the Las Vegas Strip? A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential.
Comfortable walking shoes are not all made equally. Some are terribly ugly, some look way too sporty, and some just won’t go with your dresses no matter how hard you try to style around them.
Here are some of my walking shoe recommendations — I’ve personally vetted these shoes by either:
- owning them myself
- scouring the web and reading as many reviews as I could about ’em
More Packing: What else do you plan on doing in Las Vegas?
What activities are you going to be doing in Las Vegas? Your itinerary activities will influence your Las Vegas packing list (and how much luggage room you’ll need).
If you’re going to be going out every night, you’ll need to make room for a few showstopping outfits, jewelry, some high heels, mini purses/clutches, and things of that nature.
If you’re going to be doing outdoor/hiking activities, there will be extra stuff you need to bring. Think workout tops, leggings, a running hat, hiking shoes, day packs, etc.
If hanging out on the casino floor and eating around town is your main objective, you won’t need much other than casual clothing.
Need some help figuring out your itinerary? Check out our Las Vegas guides by month:
November Guide | December Guide | January Guide | February Guide
OTHER MUST-HAVES FOR VEGAS
Ballotte metatarsal pads (high heel inserts) – as someone who can only tolerate about 1 hour in heels higher than 3 inches, these are a must for the club.
Sunscreen – You cannot go to Vegas without sunscreen! Yes, even in the wintertime (the sun is still out most days). For the face, we are absolutely obsessed with the magical Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen because it goes on matte — no oily sheen. Trader Joe’s sells a cheaper dupe of this too.
Hangover preventatives – Vegas and hangovers go hand-in-hand, which is why you should come prepared with a hangover preventative or a hangover cure! These days, hangover preventatives come in many forms. If you don’t mind capsules, go with PartySmart Antioxidant Capsules. If you’d rather drink it down, Blowfish for Hangovers come in the form of effervescent tablets.
Ibuprofen and Liquid IV hydration packets – also a recovery essential. Chug that Liquid IV either before your night out or the morning after a night out and you’ll be good to hit your lunchtime buffet in no time!
Refillable water bottle – at about 99% of the hotels on the Strip, in-room bottled water is not free. Save money and bring a refillable water bottle for your trip.
Your favorite form of caffeine – tea drinks, cans of cold brew from the store, instant coffee, etc. Unlike hotels in many other destinations, coffee is NOT free at most resorts/hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, and buying from the Starbucks shops in the hotel lobbies can really add up (they charge way more than what a ‘normal’ Starbucks charges).
Some form of a winter jacket – I like to bring at least two options: one for all my outdoor moments and one for my indoor needs. The outdoor jacket is usually a typical winter coat whereas the indoor one is a lighter jacket, cardigan, etc.
Government-issued ID – Check that you have this on you before you leave your hotel room. You’ll need it if you plan on staying on the casino floor, going to bars or clubs, etc.)
Cash – For tipping all the hard industry workers you encounter.
Planning Your Trip To Vegas?
Here are some of our other Vegas travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip:
- How To Snag Discounts On Las Vegas Attractions And Shows
- Here Are All The Absolute Must-Do’s In Las Vegas For First Timers
- 25+ Unique And Totally FREE Things To Do In Vegas
- Top Las Vegas Magic Shows That Will Knock Your Socks Off
- 15 Fun Places To Eat On The Las Vegas Strip
- 15 Kid-Friendly Shows In Las Vegas Perfect For Families
- 5 Cheaper Alternatives To Cirque du Soleil Shows In Las Vegas
- 10 Fun Rides and Roller Coasters In Las Vegas For Thrill Seekers
- 10 Secret Bars And Speakeasies On The Las Vegas Strip (+ Where To Find Them!)
- 20 Quirky And Fun Museums You’ll Only Find In Las Vegas
