What to Wear to a Vineyard: The Ultimate Outfit Guide
There’s nothing quite like spending an afternoon wandering through rows of grapevines with a glass of wine in hand. But figuring out what to wear to a vineyard can be trickier than it sounds. Between uneven terrain, sun exposure, and wineries that range from barn-casual to cocktail dress-fancy, it helps to have a game plan before you go. Over at Lily Travel, I’ve done my fair share of wine tasting, and I’ve learned a few things about dressing for the vineyard no matter the weather or terrain.
Below, I’m breaking down exactly what to wear to a vineyard, from the practical essentials to outfit ideas at every budget.
Comfort First: Why It Matters Most at a Vineyard
Before we talk style, let’s talk comfort, because it really is the most important part of any vineyard outfit. You’ll likely be on your feet for hours, walking across gravel paths, grassy fields, and sometimes hilly terrain between the tasting room and the vines themselves. Skip the heels and anything that may sink into the earth. Instead, opt for sandals or wedges, breathable fabrics, and layers you can adjust as the temperature shifts throughout the day.
Sun Protection Essentials
Most vineyards involve a good amount of time outdoors, so sun protection isn’t optional. A few things I never skip:
- Sunscreen — apply it before you leave and pack a travel-size bottle for reapplication.
- A hat — a wide-brim hat or even a baseball cap keeps the sun off your face during long walks through the vines.
- Sunglasses — both practical and a great way to elevate a casual outfit.
Depending on the winery, you may also want to bring a picnic blanket to sit on. Many vineyards have sprawling lawns perfect for an afternoon picnic, and having your own blanket means you’re not stuck standing (or sitting directly on the grass) while you sip.
Check the Vibe Before You Go
Here’s a tip that’s saved me from being under or overdressed more than once: check the winery’s Google Business Profile before you go. Scrolling through the photos other visitors have posted gives you a real sense of the vibe, whether it’s a rustic, casual tasting room or a polished, upscale estate. Some wineries lean dressy with white tablecloths and reservation-only tastings, while others are laid-back with picnic tables and a come-as-you-are attitude. A quick scroll through recent photos will tell you exactly what you’re walking into.
What to Wear to a Vineyard by Budget
Once you’ve got a feel for the vibe, it’s time to plan the outfit. Here’s how I approach vineyard style at every price point:
Affordable Budget Wear
Amazon has become my go-to for vineyard staples. I’ve had great luck finding basics like simple crop tops, sundresses, and even the occasional cute skirt at a fraction of the price of other retailers. It’s also a sneaky-good place to snag deals on mid-range brands, like Melissa shoes, which often show up discounted through Amazon. I like Melissa shoes for vineyards because they’re cute but still have thick heels or platforms, which are easy to walk in outside.
Middle-Ground Wear
This is where most of my vineyard wardrobe lives. A few go-to brands:
- Loft — my pick for the best value in this group, thanks to frequent, deep sales.
- Commense — known for pieces that look far more expensive than they are.
- Quince — similar to Commense, with elevated basics at a reasonable price point. I like their cashmere, linen and washable silk.
- Anthropologie — pricier, but the sale section is full of unique, memorable pieces.
- J.Crew — a great mix of classic staples and standout pieces, especially on sale.
- Reformation — beautiful, photo-ready dresses that are well worth it – I find that when cared for, these pieces can last a while.
Anthropologie, J.Crew, and Reformation tend to be the priciest of this bunch at full price, but they offer that perfect blend of timeless staples and one-of-a-kind pieces that feel special.
Designer Wear
If you want to elevate a simple outfit without buying an entirely new wardrobe, designer accessories are the way to go. A pair of Burberry sunglasses, a Gucci belt, an Hermès scarf or a classic designer handbag can instantly make an affordable outfit look polished and expensive. Shoes are another easy upgrade. Even a straightforward sundress from Amazon looks completely different paired with a designer bag or a great pair of shoes.
Pro Tip:
Always check the winery’s Google Business Profile photos before you dress. It’s the fastest way to gauge whether you’re headed somewhere casual and grassy or dressy and reservation-only, so you can plan your outfit (and your shoes) accordingly.
Want to see what I’ve worn to specific wineries? Check out my Instagram or TikTok – I frequently post my fits for various wineries in the U.S. and Europe. You and Follow me for a consistent feed of outfits.
Final Thoughts on What To Wear
At the end of the day, the best vineyard outfit is one that lets you actually enjoy the experience: comfortable enough to walk the rows, protected from the sun, and appropriate for the winery’s particular vibe. Mix and match pieces across budgets, lean on a few key accessories to dress things up, and you’ll be ready for whatever the tasting room throws your way.
