Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Winter bus standing on the side of the road
Winter bus standing on the side of the road
Photo by Osman Rona from Unsplash
Life

How to Stay Prepared For Pittsburgh’s Unpredictable Weather

Maliha Khan
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Pitt chapter.

45 degrees at 8 a.m. to 75 degrees by 1 p.m., that’s the type of weather in Pittsburgh during the fall season. Figuring out what clothes to bring from home and to buy can be frustrating so here are a few suggestions!

  1. Lightweight jackets, vests, raincoats, jean jackets or puffer coats

The early birds who go out, grab breakfast, take a walk or have classes or work in the morning, are all probably aware that it’s usually a lot chiller before noon. Bringing along and layering your outfit with a lightweight jacket can help you stay warm. A jacket that acts as a raincoat as well is preferred for unpredictable rain. 

  1. Long sleeve tops and tees

Long sleeve tops are the perfect balance to keep up with the drastic weather changes. They are great for layering under clothing, and such a basic essential staple for your closet! 

  1. Regular tees

This may seem obvious, but I always forget to bring enough tees. When the weather gets warmer later in the day, it’s nice to have a basic short sleeve tee under all those cover-ups, so you’re not sweating as you go about your day.

  1. Denim shorts, jeans, leggings & sweatpants 
pile of clothes
Maude Frédérique Lavoie via Unsplash

Denim bottoms, especially having a pair that isn’t distressed for when it gets chillier, will be your go-to. But I know that jeans aren’t an “everyday” thing, so having leggings or sweatpants are also a great, more relaxing, and a comfortable option.

  1. Boots & shoes you don’t mind getting wet
asos platform boots
Photo via ASOS

Uggs, sneakers and anything that can keep your feet warm is a MUST. Shoes and sneakers you don’t mind wearing on rainy or snowy days are nice to bring along as well!

  1. Chunky sweaters, hoodies & cardigans 
knit sweater stack
Photo by Tijana Drndarski from Unsplash

My personal favorite and go-to is oversized hoodies, zip-ups or cardigans are perfect for layering, especially if you’re not a fan of jackets, like me. These are a staple for the fall weather and will save you the stress of not knowing how to appropriately dress for the chilly morning and sunny, hot afternoons.  

  1. Beanies, gloves & scarves

Complete the outfit with a beanie on the super windy and chilly days! And, don’t forget to bring along scarves or gloves for extra warmth! 

Hi I'm Maliha, I'm a second year microbiology major with a gender and women studies minor at the University of Pittsburgh. In my free time I enjoy going to they gym, trying new restaurants with friends or family and painting. I enjoy reading and writing about women's empowerment and advocacy.