vail may be known best for its snow-covered peaks during ski season, but one of the best times to visit is actually in the fall. vail in the fall is one of the most beautiful places in the world. with the turn of the seasons, the aspen leaves change color to a golden hue, lighting up the mountain sides as they quake in the late autumn sun. walking through a grove of the majestic golden trees is magical, breathtaking, even spiritual. plus, the photos are definitely instagram-worthy.
another bonus is that the mountain towns are often less crowded than during the high seasons of summer and winter, but still have a lot to offer. the weather is perfect, often sunny and warm during the day, with the evening bringing a crisp chill to the air. this makes it the perfect time of year for hiking, as it isn’t too hot, but still warm enough to not need a canada goose jacket when you step outside. you can also enjoy the many outdoor patios while soaking in the mountain views and sipping on one of the fantastic craft cocktails the local restaurants offer, because what is life without happy hours.
so now that i’ve sold you on a trip to vail in the fall 😉 , here’s a guide on what to wear.
what to wear in vail in the fall:
colorado is a pretty casual state; even the glitzier mountain towns still have a laid-back feel, so here are some ideas of what to wear in vail, colorado in the fall.
during the day:
first off, the sun is very powerful all year round at our high-altitude, so make sure you wear sunscreen. afterall, there’s no insta filter that disguises the lobster sunburn look. also keep in mind, even as the nights start cooling down, fall days are still pretty warm in colorado.
if you’re out and about in town, opt for casual. it’s not unusual for people to go from a long bike ride or hike in their work out gear right to lunch or happy hour. trendy athleisure is an easy way to go from being active to sipping on that post hike beer. when i’m hiking into town, i love to wear a pair of cropped leggings with mesh for breathability, a tank top that works on the trail and at happy hour, layered with a long sleeve top and, depending on the forecast, maybe a light fleece or packable raincoat. don’t forget a good pair of lightweight hiking shoes for stability on the rocky trails.
if you’re just strolling around town (and maybe venturing into the woods for the sole purpose of cute insta pics), you can never go wrong with a chunky cardigan like this animal print one or this grey one that is totally grandpa chic, cropped jeans, and a statement felt hat to tie it all together. it’s an easy, no fuss look that will give you that perfect fall feel. i know what you’re thinking, chunky sweaters for fall, groundbreaking… but it’s my personal belief that a chunky sweater/cardigan is one of the best items you can invest in (pair it with a floral skirt on summer nights, layer it over thermals in the winter; the options really are endless). plus rolling around in a pile of leaves in a thin cashmere turtleneck just doesn’t quite have the same instagram appeal as doing so in a chunky, cozy sweater.
if you’re still thinking a chunky sweater is a little too blasé then pair it with a statement shoe. one of the best ways to make your outfit stand out is with your shoes. i love a good pair of mules or loafers in the fall. this season, leopard print is trending and adding a leopard shoe to your outfit is a great way to give it that extra pop. cute boots are also a great option and you can capitalize on this season’s western themed styles for a true mountain look. not saying that you should go full on dolly parton here, just a hint of western style is a good way to pull off that “i’m rugged yet also a fashionista” look for your insta pics.
evening:
there are many fantastic restaurants and bars in vail, so be sure to take advantage of a night on the town. oftentimes people dress up a little more for a night out in vail. not to say stilettos and a bandage dress are the way to go (after all this isn’t 2007), but you can definitely wear something a little dressier than your day outfit.
pair over-the-knee boots with a cute sweater dress or corduroy mini skirt and a cozy sweater. or wear an awesome pair of ankle boots with tights and a casual long-sleeve dress. top it off with a timeless wool coat and beret to keep warm while looking chic for your stroll along the picturesque cobblestone streets of vail village, which, of course, will need to be photographed.
insider tip:
weather can change on a dime in colorado and you need to be prepared. so whether you’re hiking or strolling around town, be sure to wear layers! i repeat, layers are your best friend in the colorado mountains. it can feel like 70 degrees one minute and drop to 45 a few minutes later. so trust me, layers layers layers! plus layers give you so many options to make your outfit look fabulous.