What to Wear in Tampa

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Deciding what to wear in Tampa can be confusing: Should you pack a million t-shirts and shorts? Will you live exclusively in a bathing suit? If local jokes about the tacky tourist attire prove anything, it’s that the packing confusion is widespread.

What to Wear in Tampa

To blend in with the Florida natives and enjoy your vacation in effortless style, wear the following things while in Tampa.

Shorts

Be careful which ones you choose, because your shorts either help you fit right in or flag you as a tourist. As a rule of thumb, women should look for something tight but comfortable. Men can opt for something breathable—but that doesn’t look like it came straight from the gym.

Breathable Shoes

Chances are you’ll spend a fair amount of your time in Tampa walking around. Bring comfortable and breathable shoes that will keep you fresh in the Florida heat. Sandals are a must if visiting any time except winter (when it gets cool, but not cold), and sneakers are a good bet if you’re coming during colder months or if you’re planning to visit wildlife refuges and state parks.

Sundress

Light, breezy, and beautiful; sundresses are practically a Tampa uniform.

Light Shirts

If you’re wondering what to wear in Tampa, choose shirts that will let your skin breathe and allow the breeze to pass through. Consider something light that covers you and protects you from harmful UV rays.

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Yes, bringing a jacket to Tampa is essential. Cold fronts or rainstorms won’t ruin your plans when you’re prepared for them.

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Lightweight Pants

Helpful if you want to look a little nicer without melting from the heat, lightweight pants are perfect for cooler evenings, museum visits, and shopping sprees.

Short Socks

The greatest fashion mistake Florida tourists make is wearing long socks. No self-respecting local has ever been caught with socks above the ankle. Follow suit, it’ll be cooler and more comfortable.

Hat

Don’t get caught without a hat at the pool or beach. If you’re doing an outdoor activity like catching a game or walking around Busch Gardens, invest on a fashionable cap.

Capris/Skirts

Don’t know what to wear in Tampa when you don’t feel like wearing shorts or pants? Go for capris (just make sure they’re fashionable) or skirts that look good while keeping you cool.

Night Outfit

Clubbing in Ybor doesn’t necessarily mean stilettos, but you do want to look nice. A pair of faux leather pants can easily glam up any outfit.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tampa Travel Guide
• The 10 Best Hotels in Tampa
• The Best Cheap Hotels in Tampa for Budget Travelers
• The 10 Best Tampa Beach Hotels
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Tampa
• 10 Must-See Tampa Attractions
• 10 Best Beaches in Tampa
• The Best Cheap Eats in Tampa
• The 10 Best Restaurants in Tampa
• 10 Great Tampa Restaurants on the Water
• What to Pack for Tampa: 10 Must-Haves in Your Suitcase

– Original reporting by Mariana Zapata

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