Dressing for Chicago Weather?

cloud9

Hello, any fabbers out in Chicago? What's the weather/wind conditions like for the next couple weeks? I'll be out there for business & fun some time the next 10 days or so.

Weather forecast states 30-50, with some days rain/snow. Are there ice/slush on the ground? Besides a wool peacoat i don't really have anything warmer. Will I survive? (me in 70+ degree weather right now). Windchill factor probably make it feels much colder? What about shoes? I have a few pairs of booties but I'm trying to limit my luggage. I may have to walk a little bit from hotel to my business meeting, so I'm opting for an almost flat leather ankle boots (better than my heeled but more dressy bootie for walking).

As for indoors, i presume there is heater, thus a layered shirt, with either a light jacket/cardigan should suffice? Any suggestions? Sorry for the rambling and thanks in advance!

9 years ago

Dressing

3 replies

Latest reply was from Beth Ann

Banoffi

Veteran

I'm not from Chicago, but live in the Midwest and have traveled to Chicago many times, so I hope to help you a bit. If you're used to 70 degree weather, Chicago will probably seem a bit frigid to you this time of year --- but you never know. In the spring the day can start off chilly (frost on the ground sort of cold) and warm up considerably by the middle of the afternoon if it's sunny, It can also rain all day, which can chill you. You peacoat should be fine this time of year, but you might want to bring a scarf and gloves if it's cold out. If you'll be in downtown Chicago you might do a lot of walking, so I'd opt for comfortable shoes. You can never tell what the heat will be like in Midwest office buildings, so I'd bring layers (a jacket you can take off it it's too warm). This time of year so people go crazy when it hits the 50's and turn on the air conditioning, so be warned.... (or maybe I just work with crazy people!).

Chicago is a fun city. Enjoy!

9 years ago

cjh

(website)

Veteran

Ditto on all the above. Gloves and scarf (and hat) are essential because it's truly the Windy City and the wind can be cold this time of year. The booties sound like a good solution. Chicago is not a super formal city, but more of a uniform of lots of black puffers, tan trench coats and layers inside and out.

9 years ago

Beth Ann

Veteran

I just moved to Indianapolis after 17 years in the Chicago suburbs. Weather can change quickly, and the Lake keeps things a bit cooler during the early Spring -- by as much as 10 degrees. If you're within 3-4 miles of the water, you'll notice this difference.

That said, it's a great walking city, and exploring Millenium Park and the Mag Mile on foot is a lot of fun (and exercise).

I suggest lots of light layers! I rarely wore my heavy puffer, even in cold weather, but would wear a lightweight packable puffer over a jacket, or under my EB raincoat, if there was a possibility of rain. A lined trench, with some very lightweight gloves, scarf, and perhaps an optional hat, could also work.. I like to carry a crossbody tote that is big enough to stow these items should the day warm up. I can also drape my trench over the bag, and carry it that way, if I choose.

For footwear, something with a little weather protection, and some support and padding is best. I find that fitted woolen socks help my feet breathe and keep blisters at bay! Who knows? You might have gorgeous weather.

BTW -- I hope the boat tours are running --- the Architecture tour, and the Wendella 1 1/2 hour trip (River and Lake) are worth the time and money, unless it's really bad weather. When we had visitors in town, we'd always plan the boat trip for mid-afternoon, when everyone could you use a little time to sit and relax. On a clear day, the views are extraordinary.

P.S. The Nordie's is amazing!

Have fun!

9 years ago

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