What to Wear in the Alps: Summer Switzerland Outfit Ideas

LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 12, 2025 | EST. READING TIME: 8 MIN

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IN THIS GUIDE ✺

• Summer Climate in Switzerland

• Summer Switzerland Outfit Ideas

  • Matching Sets

  • Patterned Pullovers

  • Adventure Shorts

  • Lightweight Puffer

  • Outdoorsy Vests

  • Hiking Shoes

• How I Styled Lauterbrunnen Outfits

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Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Lauterbrunnen is one of the many quintessential alpine villages you’re sure to encounter in Switzerland. Covered with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush green meadows, this picturesque country belongs at the top of your travel bucket list.

Whether you’re planning a tranquil retreat or an adventure-packed getaway, knowing what to wear in Switzerland is key to feeling comfortable yet cute throughout your summer trip.

The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes that catch even seasoned travelers off guard. From hitting the trails to wandering through quaint villages, the right clothing can make all the difference, allowing you to fully savor everything this stunning destination has to offer.

This Switzerland outfit ideas summer guide will help you pack smartly and stylishly, preparing you for the various activities and conditions you’ll encounter. From matching sets for active adventures to cozy pullovers for cooler evenings, learn why each clothing item is ideal for Switzerland with detailed recommendations to make the most of your travel wardrobe.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast preparing to hike through meadows or leisurely stroll while taking in breathtaking scenery, this guide will help you pack your carry-on with confidence. Dive in and discover the best summer outfits for your Swiss alpine adventure.

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Summer Climate in Switzerland

Should you plan on visiting the Bernese Oberland in May, you can expect a delightful mix of spring transitioning to summer weather. May is an ideal time to venture out and explore this alpine paradise, as the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Switzerland weather in May involves temperatures ranging from 46°F (8°C) in the early mornings and evenings to 64°F (18°C) during the day. While these are generally mild temperatures, remember the weather can change rapidly, especially in mountain regions prone to unexpected rain and snowfall.

Layering is key to staying comfortable, as you’ll encounter a range of climates traveling from the sunny base of valley sall the way up to snow-capped peaks!

Rain is another common occurrence in May, with the region receiving an average of 120-140 mm of rainfall which may translate to frequent showers during your visit.

Packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket or puffer is essential to staying dry during your adventures—even if the forecast looks clear before you leave home. It’s also a good idea to have a small, collapsible umbrella or compact rain poncho handy for unexpected downpours. In larger metropolitan areas I’d recommend waiting to make such a purchase until it’s actually needed, but given small villages like Lauterbrunnen are home to less than 2,500 people, you may be unable to find an appropriate covering for sale when everyone is seeking the same item.

While Switzerland doesn’t experience extreme weather events like hurricanes, higher altitudes can experience sudden changes in conditions, including fog and wind. Valleys’ unique topography also creates microclimates, where certain areas are significantly cooler or warmer than others. Being prepared for these variations with layering pieces on hand will ensure you’re ready for any situation.

May is an excellent time for hiking, as many trails open up after the winter months made them previously inaccessible. Some higher altitude routes may have lingering snow, so check local trail conditions before setting out on a hike. Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with good grip are a must for navigating the mixed wet and dry terrain you’ll encounter, particularly in muddy spots that quickly become slick.

All in all, packing for Switzerland in May means being prepared for a mix of mild temperatures, occasional rain, and varying terrain. Seeking versatile, layered pieces of athletic clothing will help you stay comfortable so you can enjoy the outdoor activities this enchanting destination has to offer!

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Summer Switzerland Outfit Ideas

Matching Sets

Matching sets, particularly athletic co-ords, are a fantastic choice for your summer trip to Switzerland. These sets offer a seamless blend of style and functionality, making them perfect for active pursuits and casual outings exploring town.

Look for moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials that can handle a variety of activities. Opt for neutral and earthy tones to complement the natural surroundings, or stand out with bold, bright colors which radiate like vibrant alpine flora. The convenience of matching sets ensures you always look put-together without putting much thought into styling your outfit, no matter what the day brings.

Patterned Pullovers

Cozy, colorful pullovers are a must-have for Switzerland, especially as you ascend to cooler elevations up the mountainside. Choose warm and comfy pullovers with bright colorways and fun patterns to add a touch of personality to your outfit.

Fabrics like fleece and wool blends offer warmth without adding bulk, making them easy to layer over your base athletic clothing. These pullovers are perfect for relaxing in a mountain café or layering under a jacket during a hike to the Schilthorn. Their vibrant designs are the perfect statement piece to make your aesthetic photos pop against the stunning alpine backdrop.

Adventure Shorts

Adventure shorts are an essential part of any Swiss packing list. Look for shorts with functional features like multiple pockets, clasps, and buckles to keep your essentials secure while you explore the natural world.

Textiles like nylon and polyester blends provide durability and quick-drying properties, ideal for outdoor activities.

Choose designs that allow for easy movement and have features like adjustable waistbands for a customized fit, combining comfort and practicality. The added utility of these shorts ensures you're prepared for any summer adventure!

Lightweight Puffer

A lightweight puffer jacket is an invaluable piece of clothing to have during a trip to Switzerland—even in the summer! These compact, insulated jackets provide warmth without weighing you down, making them easy to pack and carry around whether you wear them properly or tie around your waist for added convenience. Look for water-resistant—or even better, waterproof—materials to protect against sudden showers. Similar to your choice of patterned pullover, select a neutral color to easily match your other pieces or go unconventional with a bright hue to stand out against the mountainous backdrop—in the event you get separated, a vibrant jacket will make you much easier to locate!

Outdoorsy Vests

Outdoorsy vests, whether puffer or nylon, are perfect for layering as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. These versatile vests provide core warmth while allowing for greater arm movement which is ideal as you heat up during any kind of physical exertion.

A comfy yet functional addition for summer outdoor activities, wear these vests over a base layer for a subtle amount of coverage or under a jacket in cooler climates. Look for practical features like zippered pockets and durable materials which can withstand the seasonal elements and inevitable wear and tear this article will naturally incur in the outdoors.

Hiking Shoes

Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes to take along for your adventure. Consider colorful hiking boots or sturdy sneakers that offer excellent support and traction on diverse terrain, including the muddy trails, grassy fields, and snow-covered rocks you’ll encounter in Switzerland.

Waterproof options are ideal for keeping your feet dry during rainy days or stream crossings.

Choose shoes with breathable materials to prevent overheating during long hikes, as prioritizing comfort and functionality over purely aesthetics will keep your feet happy while you explore the scenic trails.

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How I Styled Lauterbrunnen Outfits

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With two summer days in Lauterbrunnen during the end of May 2023, I was a bit strapped for space and needed to re-use various elements within my daily ensembles. Nevertheless, I sought out a clean, neutral image for my primarily black and white Switzerland summer outfits, balancing style and practicality to ensure my clothing wouldn’t limit my outdoor activities.

On my first day arriving in Lauterbrunnen—after a long day of travel from Ibiza to Mallorca to Zurich and then finally this charming town—I focused more on aesthetics since the only activity on our evening agenda was eating a steamy bowl of fondue!

• Black Core Collection Contour Squareneck Longsleeve Bodysuit ($58) from Aritzia. The double-layer, nylon fabric offers a supportive fit with a smoothing effect and second-skin feel. The contoured style allowed the top to tuck seamlessly into my skirt, while the moisture-resistant fabric was perfect for walking around town during the humid evening.

• BDG Denim Mini Skirt from Urban Outfitters — while this skirt is no longer sold online, it’s comprised of a classic denim fabric in a structured A-line shape. This essential basic made my bottoms a bit more interesting than if I had simply worn denim jean shorts, and the looser nature of the skirt allowed my legs to move freely without the denim sticking to my thighs. Find a comparable style here ($38.99, paid link).

• Black Everywhere Belt Bag 1L ($38) from lululemon. My all-time favorite travel staple, I bring this bag on every international trip. Besides holding my passport while navigating the airport, on this particular day it fit my phone, a film camera, and other miscellaneous essentials like chapstick and hair ties.

• Women's 574 Core Nimbus Cloud with White Sneakers ($89.99) from New Balance. While commuting via planes, trains, and gondolas I certainly needed close-toed shoes that wouldn’t get uncomfortable during a long travel day, making these comfy lifestyle sneakers the ideal choice for a more stylish pair than basic running shoes. These are my go-to sneakers that can serve a purely aesthetic function while also providing support during physical activities. This is the only shoe I wore during my time in Switzerland—since I didn’t have any room to spare for impractical footwear—and they perfectly addressed all my outfit needs throughout the duration of this trip.

In addition to the staple pieces listed above, my first full day was spent ascending the Schilthorn wearing:

• Grey Blank Hoodie from Italic. While this style isn’t offered online anymore, I’m convinced everyone needs a proper travel sweatshirt like this one with a big hood that can cover your eyes while you try to catch some Z’s on the flight ($35.99, paid link). In this case, the neutral, cozy hoodie kept me warm while I was surrounded by snow on the mountain top!

• Black Quilted Puffer Vest from American Rag — another item that’s no longer sold today, this functional puffer vest added an insulating layer I could wear open or zipped up depending on my internal temperature. Find a similar thin quilted style here ($31.90, paid link).

• Underneath these pieces I wore the Black Align™ High-Rise Pant 25" Leggings ($118) and Black Bend This Scoop and Square Bra ($48) set from lululemon. Since we planned our descent with a long hike around the lush valley, I needed comfortable athletic wear for hours of physical exertion. Lululemon’s gear is built for this exact use case, and the absorbent nature of the stretchy yet form-fitting fabric allowed me to move freely through the landscape with light support and a subtle smoothing effect.

• Polished Gold Frame Jack Sunglasses ($180) from Ray-Ban. I accessorized with my classic gold-rimmed, dark lens sunglasses.

Spending one last morning in Gimmelwald before heading out to Interlaken, I again opted for a more fashionable ensemble than simply athleisure and a sweatshirt since I had no hikes planned for this day, but still needed a somewhat functional fit for another travel day.

• Aura Overalls White ($85) from Princess Polly. Indy Blue’s 2018 Switzerland trip frolicking around this breathtaking country in overalls inspired me to purchase my own pair for this very occasion, and I couldn’t have been more satisfied! These white overalls offer a relaxed fit and adjustable shoulder straps, and since this trip they’ve become one of my closet staples I return to time and time again.

• Black Women's Cropped Turtleneck Sweater Lantern Sleeve Ribbed Knit Pullover ($42.99, paid link) from Zaful. Underneath my overalls I wore the lululemon sports bra from the day before which appears in subsequent Interlaken photos taken on the same day. It was a bit chilly during the morning hours I spent in the elevated village of Gimmelwald, leading me to layer my look with a light sweater. The convenient thing about wearing a long sleeve under overalls means it’s quite easy to take off once the day warms up!

✺ ABOUT ME ✺

Hi, I’m Ashley. I’m determined to see the world. All of it. Are you coming with?

While I respect the digital nomads, van life, and the hardcore backpackers—that’s just not me.

I’m convinced I can travel and keep my job.

It’ll take a lifetime, but I’m going to make it to all 195 countries before my time is up—and I’m taking you along for the ride!

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