Ireland Outfit Ideas: What to Wear from Killarney to Dublin
LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 15, 2025 | EST. READING TIME: 6 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
Cable Knit Jumpers
Wool Outerwear
Plaid Accents
Layering Vests
Cozy Caps
Patent Loafers
From Dublin to Killarney, Ireland is renowned for stunning green landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you're planning a stroll through Killarney National Park or soaking in the charming atmosphere of Temple Bar, knowing what to wear will significantly enhance your experience—understanding Ireland's spring climate and how it influences your wardrobe choices is essential!
This Ireland outfit guide offers comprehensive advice with curated recommendations for what to wear, focusing on practical, weather-appropriate pieces which pay tribute to laid-back country with regional references.
From cable knit jumpers embodying Aran craftsmanship to sophisticated vests that add a touch of academic savvy, find specifics ideas for your spring trip. Using these Ireland style tips, pack must-have items to create versatile outfits which seamlessly transition from outdoor excursions to cozy pub evenings.
Spring Climate in Ireland
March in Ireland brings a mix of mild and wet conditions as spring awakens the lush landscapes. The days gradual get longer in this temperate maritime climate—and while sunshine makes an occasional appearance—rain and cloud cover are frequent, making it essential to be prepared for changing weather throughout the day.
Temperatures remain cool, especially in the early mornings and evenings, but the crisp air invigorates as you explore the rolling countryside.
Daytime temperatures peak around 50°F (10°C), while nighttime drops to a chilly 37°F to 41°F (3-5°C). Rain is the norm, with 16-20 rainy days showering the month. Precipitation is light but persistent forming a blanketing mist or gradually drenching drizzle, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
Packing a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes is essential for staying comfortablly dry as you traverse picturesque trails—or even if you’re completing a coach tour! On dry days the ground underfoot may still be damp, particularly in more rural, natural areas.
March offers 11-12 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:00 AM and sunset close to 7:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the beauty of Ireland’s landscape. The early spring air is fresh and brisk, so appropriate layering with wool hats and gloves is key to enjoying outdoor adventures.
Take advantage of drier spells with strolls around the lakes or hikes through the hills, and embrace the cozy warmth of a traditional Irish pub during rainier moments. As the month progresses notice the first signs of spring, with blooming flowers and budding trees adding a touch of color to the landscape.
Humidity levels remain relatively high throughout the year, contributing to the vibrant green palette that Ireland is famous for. In March, expect humidity to hover around 80%, which makes the air feel cooler than the true temperature. Wind is another factor to consider, especially in exposed areas like lakes and mountain faces.
During my mid-March visit it wasn’t technically raining, but a thick fog persisted obscuring all the faraway sites and slowly dampening my ends until my hair was soaking wet! Even though I sat on a covered coach for the majority of this day, getting off the bus and viewing designated stops was pretty much the whole point of this excursion—so it’s worth bundling up to build the courage needed to continually descend into the damp, cool air!
Ireland Outfit Ideas
Cable Knit Jumpers
Classic cable knit jumpers bring warmth connect you to rich textile traditions. An abundance of sheep has made knitting an important part of Irish heritage, with local artisans crafting textured designs inspired by the Aran Islands. Cable stitches and diamond patterns add visual interest while evoking history, making these layering jumpers perfect for Ireland’s crisp spring weather.
Natural shades like cream, soft gray, or moss green mirror the rolling hills and rugged coastline, ensuring your style reflects the beauty of the Irish landscape. Purchase an authentic jumper made of locally sourced wool to support Irish craftsmanship and provide a genuine connection to the region.
Wool Outwear
Textured wool outerwear offers style and practicality while paying homage to Ireland’s weaving heritage. With a long tradition of crafting high-quality textiles from the abundance of local wool, Irish artisans have perfected the art of creating cozy outerwear which marries comfort with timeless design.
Whether it’s a sherpa-lined jacket, shearling coat, or classic wool blazer, these pieces provide much needed warmth while adding rustic charm to your spring outfits. Wool is an excellent insulator, trapping heat to keep you warm even in the cool, misty conditions. This naturally breathable fabric helps regulate your body temperature to prevent overheating.
Plaid Accents
Scholarly plaid accents bring Celtic heritage into your spring wardrobe. Plaid patterns, deeply rooted in Irish history, embrace the region’s culture while adding a pop of pattern to elevate even the simplest ensemble. Ireland may not have the same clan tartan tradition as Scotland, but plaid patterns have still been woven into Irish textiles for centuries, with family associations linked to certain patterns and colors.
Whether it’s a plaid vest, tailored blazer, or wool skirt, these classic textiles are refined and authentically Irish. Layer over solid basics or pair with wool outerwear to create a cohesive, heritage-inspired look that’s perfect for exploring the Irish countryside.
Layering Vests
Button-down vests add a smart touch to your spring wardrobe, perfect for a subtly sophisticated look.
This classic silhouette fits seamlessly into the aesthetic of Ireland’s countryside, blending traditional style with modern practicality by evoking the region’s history of fine weaving.
A versatile addition, they’re perfect for transitioning from crisp morning walks to afternoon exploration, ensuring you stay comfortably polished throughout the day.
Wool vests are excellent for colder days, while quilted vests provide lightweight insulation without adding bulk.
Cozy Caps
Cozy caps keep your head warm while protecting your hair from Ireland’s unpredictable spring weather, including rain showers and gusty winds. A traditional Irish flat cap is a classic choice that complements a variety of outfits. These are typically made from tweed or wool and feature a snug, comfortable fit that stops heat from escaping while adding a touch of Irish heritage to your look.
Beanies are another great option for keeping warm. Seek out a snug fit and thick knit for maximum insulation. Cashmere beanies offer a luxurious feel and excellent warmth, perfect for chilly days when you’re looking to add more character to your outfit.
Patent Loafers
Patent loafers offer the perfect blend of practicality and style, ideal for navigating Ireland’s cobblestone streets and lush countryside paths. Known for a glossy finish with water-resistant properties, patent loafers are ideal for Ireland's damp conditions. These shoes easily repel water and are simple to clean, ensuring they look sharp even after a walk in the rain.
The sturdy construction provides good support for walking on uneven surfaces like meandering paths. Look for cushioned insoles and rubber soles to enhance comfort and grip. A slight heel can add elegance, making them suitable for casual and semi-formal occasions.
How I Styled My Ireland Outfit
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Embarking on a 2 day trip to Killarney from Dublin in 2023, I visited this rolling green Irish countryside during the onset of spring. Not one to let adverse weather dampen my fun, I pulled the following Ireland outfit together during a rainy day exploring County Kerry:
In desperate need of insulation, I wore a Black Denim Jean Jacket ($30) from Wild Fable. Going for a bit of a dark academic look here—which my best friend pulled off much better—I styled a reverse Oreo outfit, sandwiching my dark tops with bright white features above and below my midriff.
Inserting scholarly plaid into my ensemble, I wore black and white Euros Pants ($55) from Princess Polly. This wide leg pair provided an ideal flowing silhouette while evoking Celtic tartan aesthetics.
Repping cable knit patterns in two ways, I donned a Black Distressed Knit Sweater ($69) from Urban Outfitters and cream puffball cozy cap from Charlotte Russe. While it’d be difficult to find these pieces today, source your own tributes to Aran heritage by seeking knit pieces with cable stitch diamond patterns, like this knit pom beanie ($14.99, paid link) or this black distressed sweater ($33.99, paid link)!
Not pictured are my faux patent leather A La Mode Ribbed Sock Boots ($99) from Princess Polly. Arguably my best boot purchase ever, these durable shoes have a combat-style heel with substantial tread perfect for trudging through the muddy fields we explored! Find a similar style here ($49.98, paid link)!
While in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day, I embodied the green spirit of this festive celebration wearing:
4E's Novelty Green St Patricks Day Sunglasses For Women ($6.99 paid link). Donning shamrocks in some form on St. Patrick’s Day feels obligatory, so I opted to incorporate them with some fun (and cheap!) sunnies.
Floerns Women's Mesh Sheer Ruched Tops Square Neck Puff Long Sleeve in forest green ($12.99, paid link). Prior to this trip I realized I didn’t own a single green shirt, finding this slinky long sleeve that was thin enough to be comfortable under my fitted leather jacket.
I also picked up a sporty Ireland scarf from a street vendor for only $10 while waiting for the annual parade to start.
I originally purchased this faux leather jacket from asos, and after leaving it at a party discovered they don’t sell this exact style anymore. Find a similar style here ($39.99, paid link).
Last but not least, I got these Frame jeans from a sample sale that were regrettably a few sizes too big. Today I recommended purchasing a pair from their Le Jane Cropped Jean line, which are still my go-to bottoms to this day.
✺ 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.
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