What to Wear in Interlaken in Summer
EST. READING TIME: 7 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
Slouchy Overalls
Staple Tees
Dressy Rompers
Monochrome Matching
Breezy Button Downs
Handy Handbags
Interlaken, nestled in the picturesque heart of the Swiss Alps, is a dream destination for travelers seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-racing adventure. The region is known for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and majestic mountains, making it one of the most charming areas in Switzerland! Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for an outdoor thrill or someone who simply wants to soak in the serene surroundings, this charming town has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll delve into the essential clothing items you should pack for Interlaken, providing you with detailed insights and tips to help you prepare for your adventure.
Interlaken's weather can be quite variable, especially in May, as the town is situated between two lakes—Thun and Brienz—which contribute to its particular microclimate. Expect a mix of sunny days, occasional rain showers, and cool evenings, even in May; the key to enjoying your time is to pack versatile layers well suited for fluctuating conditions. Unlike the rugged terrain of mountainous Lauterbrunnen which generally necessitates athletic gear, packing for Interlaken isn't just about functional practicality–the town's scenic beauty also provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing your personal style with trendy touches.
From taking a leisurely boat ride on Lake Thun to embarking on a thrilling paragliding flight, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic by the lake, you'll need the right pieces to make the most of your experience. This comprehensive packing guide will help you navigate the intricacies of preparing for such a dynamic destination, with practical advice on how to layer for warmth, choose the right breathable fabrics for comfort, and curate accessories that will keep you looking chic, no matter where your day takes you.
So, before you embark on your journey to this Swiss gem, take a moment to consider what you'll wear. By planning ahead and making thoughtful choices, you can simply focus on creating lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places on earth!
Summer Climate in Interlaken
Interlaken in May is a delightful blend of spring freshness and the lingering chill of winter. As the town transitions from colder months into warm summer, the weather becomes increasingly pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit. The average temperatures in moderate May range from a low of around 46°F (8°C) to a high of about 64°F (18°C).
Rain is relatively common in May, with the town experiencing an average of 13 rainy days during the month. Pack a waterproof jacket to be prepared for these occasional showers. Despite the potential for rain, May also brings plenty of sunny days with ample opportunity to explore the great outdoors. As you can’t have a rainbow with some rain, the presence of both sunshine and rain contributes to the lush greenery and blooming flowers that make Interlaken so picturesque during this time of year.
One of the highlights of visiting Interlaken in May is the clear, crisp air that enhances the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The snow on the higher peaks begins to melt, feeding the pristine lakes and rivers. This creates a perfect setting for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boat tours. The longer daylight hours, with the sun setting around 9:00 PM, allow for extended exploration and adventure– but don't forget to bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as the high altitude and reflective surfaces like water and snow can intensify the sun's rays!
What to Wear in Interlaken?
Slouchy Overalls
Slouchy overalls are a must-have for your trip. These versatile pieces blend comfort and style–whether you're exploring the town, hiking in the mountains, or simply relaxing by the lake, the loose fit of slouchy overalls allows for easy movement combining functionality and fashion. Made from durable denim, they can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures while keeping you comfortable throughout the day. Adjustable straps and multiple pockets add to their practicality, providing space to carry essentials like maps, snacks, and your phone. Pair them with a simple tee or a lightweight sweater underneath for a casual look. In cooler weather, you can layer them over a long-sleeve shirt and add a jacket for extra warmth.
Staple Tees
A collection of staple tees is a timeless essential for any kind of travel. These basic yet versatile pieces are perfect for layering and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Opt for high-quality cotton and moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep you cool during your adventures. A classic white tee is a timeless choice that pairs well with any outfit. It provides a crisp, clean look that complements the stunning mountain backdrops and vibrant natural scenery of Interlaken. You can wear it on its own or layer it under a jacket or sweater for added warmth. For a more relaxed vibe, choose tees in soft pastel colors or subtle patterns that meld into the serene surroundings.
Dressy Rompers
Dressy rompers are a fantastic choice to add a touch of functional femininity to your Interlaken wardrobe. These one-piece looks mean you don’t have to worry about styling various components of an outfit, while the hidden shorts yet dress-like appearance combine the best aspects of pants and dresses respectively! When selecting a dressy romper for your trip, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or chiffon. Delicate details like lace trim, ruffles, or embroidery can add a touch of polish to make your outfit extra chic.
Monochrome Matching
Monochrome matching as a general principle is an effortless way to create a cohesive look that aligns with the local aesthetic. By mixing black and white pieces, you can easily curate a versatile wardrobe that pops against the bright blues and greens of the surrounding landscape. This classic color combination is timeless and can be easily dressed up or down to suit any item on your itinerary. A pair of black pants or leggings, a white button down, a black dress, and a white sweater are great starting points that can be layered and combined in multiple ways, scaling the number of looks you can create from only few items in your carry-on! To add visual interest to your monochrome outfits, combine different textures and patterns. For example, pair a black leather jacket with a white lacy top, or mix a striped black and white shirt with solid-colored jeans to add dimension to your look.
Breezy Button Downs
Breezy button-downs are a staple for any trip to Interlaken, since these classic shirts are ideal for layering and can be worn in a variety of ways to suit different outdoor occasions. When choosing button-downs for your trip, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or chambray. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable, even on hotter days. Look for styles with a relaxed fit and adjustable cuffs so you can roll up the sleeves for a more casual look as the day warms up. If you get too hot, simply tie it around your waist or over your shoulders for a trendy, relaxed vibe.
Handy Handbags
The right handbag will keep all your essentials organized and easily accessible while complementing all your outfits; consider factors such as size, functionality, and style. A crossbody is one ideal option for exploring Interlaken, since you can keep your hands free and belongings secure. Look for bags with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your items organized. A water-resistant material is also a plus, since you may need to protect your personal items during unexpected rain showers. For a more robust option, consider a mini fashion backpack. This type of bag is perfect for hiking and extended days outside, since you can carry more items while distributing the weight evenly across your shoulders. Look for backpacks with padded straps and back panels for extra support.
How I Styled Interlaken Outfits
Spending only a quick two days in Interlaken during the end of May 2023, I was a bit strapped for space and needed to re-use various elements from previous outfits worn in Switzerland. Nevertheless, I sought out a clean, neutral image for my primarily black and white outfits, exuding a bit more fashionable flair rather than the athletic functionality needed for my previous Lauterbrunnen outfits.
On my first day arriving in Interlaken—which coincided with the outfit I wore during my last morning in Lauterbrunnen—I pulled off my previously needed mountain layers and transitioned to the warmer lakeside weather wearing:
Aura Overalls White ($85) from Princess Polly. Indy Blue’s 2018 Switzerland vlog 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 with my purchase. These slouchy 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.
Underneath this outer layer is the Black Bend This Scoop and Square Bra ($48) from Lululemon. Given the warm sunny weather we were blessed with on this particular day, the absorbent nature of this stretchy yet form-fitting fabric allowed me to move freely through the town of Brienz with light support and a subtle smoothing effect. This black element was also the contrast needed to complete my matching monochrome ensemble—saving the dark fabric for the smallest piece of my outfit to ensure I didn’t overheat.
While not obviously shown, my footwear of choice was none other than my Women's 574 Core Nimbus Cloud with White Sneakers ($89.99) from New Balance. While commuting via ferries, trains, and gondolas I certainly needed close-toed shoes that would remain comfortable throughout a long travel day, making these comfy lifestyle sneakers the ideal choice for a more stylish and refined pair then basic running shoes. This is the only shoe I wore during my time in Switzerland—since I didn’t have any room to spare in my carry-on for fashion sneakers that wouldn’t serve any practical purposes—and they perfectly addressed all my outfit needs throughout the duration of this international trip.
On this sunny day I accessorized with my classic Polished Gold Frame Jack Sunglasses ($180) from Ray-Ban. These gold-rimmed, dark lens sunglasses are quite flattering on most face shapes given their nearly completely circular shape with squared off edges on the top of the frame.
For my only full day Interlaken, I employed more monochrome matching—as did my travel companion—wearing:
Amita Crop Top ($19.00) from Princess Polly. This staple off-white tee goes beyond your basic blank with a ribbed high circular neckline and long side strings to tie around your waist as you see fit. My preferred approach is to cross the strings in front forming a slimming “x'“ shape before tying them together in a bow around my back!
Layering over the top of this staple tee was my Women's Black Marlee Knit Tie-shoulder Romper from Urban Outfitters. While this item is no longer sold online, you can recreate this look with a similar dressy romper that incorporates fun feminine details—like the bow-tie shoulders or puffy knit fabric texture of this romper.
Black Everywhere Belt Bag 1L ($38) from Lululemon. This bag is my all-time favorite travel staple and I bring it with me on pretty much every international trip I embark on. Besides holding my passport while I navigate airports, on this particular day it fit my iPhone, a film camera, and other miscellaneous essentials like my tortoise KUGUAOK Retro Rectangle Sunglasses ($6.99) from Amazon.
