What to Wear to Buckingham Palace: Stylish and Comfortable Outfit Ideas for Your London Visit

Whether you're touring the magnificent State Rooms, watching the Changing of the Guard, or strolling through St. James's Park with an ice cream in hand, Buckingham Palace is one of London's most photographed landmarks. The right outfit will keep you comfortable during a full day of sightseeing while still looking polished in all those vacation photos.

Here's exactly what to wear when visiting Buckingham Palace.

Is There a Dress Code for Buckingham Palace?

There isn't an official dress code for visitors touring Buckingham Palace, but smart casual clothing is always a great choice.

You'll be walking through one of the most famous royal residences in the world, so many visitors prefer outfits that look a little more polished than typical sightseeing clothes.

Good choices include:

  • Comfortable dresses

  • Linen pants

  • Tailored shorts

  • Nice jeans (weather permitting)

  • Polo shirts

  • Lightweight tops

  • Clean sneakers

  • Comfortable sandals

Avoid clothing that may become uncomfortable after several hours of walking, especially stiff shoes or heavy fabrics during the summer.

My Buckingham Palace Outfit

For my visit, I wanted something comfortable enough for a full day in London but still stylish for photos around the Victoria Memorial and Palace Forecourt.

My outfit included:

The simple design paired perfectly with the elegant architecture of the palace without feeling overly touristy.

Comfortable Shoes Are a Must

Even if Buckingham Palace is your main destination, chances are you'll walk much farther than expected.

Many visitors continue on to:

  • St. James's Park

  • Westminster Abbey

  • Big Ben

  • Churchill War Rooms

  • Green Park

  • Trafalgar Square

It's very common to walk 15,000–20,000 steps during a day exploring central London.

Comfortable sneakers are one of the best investments you can make for your trip.

What to Bring

A few essentials will make your visit much more enjoyable:

London weather can change quickly—even during summer—so having an extra layer is always a smart idea.

Best Colors for Buckingham Palace Photos

Buckingham Palace features beautiful white Portland stone, black and gold gates, and the stunning Victoria Memorial.

Outfits that photograph especially well include:

  • White

  • Black

  • Olive green

  • Blue

  • Beige

  • Soft blue

  • Cream

These colors complement the palace beautifully while helping you stand out against the architecture.

Summer Outfit Ideas

For warmer months, consider:

  • Graphic travel tee

  • Linen shorts

  • White sneakers

  • Straw hat

  • Small backpack

  • Sunglasses

This combination is comfortable, breathable, and perfect for a full sightseeing day.

Spring & Fall Outfit Ideas

Layering is key.

A great combination includes:

  • Lightweight sweatshirt or travel tee

  • Jeans or chinos

  • Comfortable sneakers

  • Light jacket

  • Small backpack

Temperatures often change throughout the day, making layers the best option.

Winter Outfit Ideas

London winters are cool and often damp.

Pack:

  • Warm coat

  • Scarf

  • Waterproof shoes or boots

  • Gloves

  • Sweater

  • Umbrella

You'll likely spend time outdoors before and after your palace tour.

Don't Forget the Photos

Some of the best photo spots include:

  • Victoria Memorial

  • Buckingham Palace Forecourt

  • The famous palace gates

  • The tree-lined paths of St. James's Park

  • The Blue Bridge overlooking the lake

Planning your outfit in advance means you'll love your vacation photos for years to come.

Complete Your Buckingham Palace Visit

Looking for everything you need to know before your visit?

Be sure to read my complete Buckingham Palace Visitor's Guide, where I cover:

  • Tour tips

  • Best photo locations

  • Afternoon tea nearby

  • Ice cream stop

  • How much time to allow

  • Nearby attractions to visit afterward

Then come back here to plan the perfect outfit for your royal day in London.

Shop the Look

If you love minimalist travel apparel, check out the Buckingham Palace collection from Pixie Thread Co. Designed for travelers who prefer timeless, understated designs, it's the perfect souvenir you'll actually wear long after your London vacation ends.

If visiting Buckingham Palace is on your London itinerary, I recommend reserving your tour before your trip. Tour options may include the State Rooms, the Royal Mews, the King’s Gallery, or a guided walk featuring the Changing of the Guard. Availability can be limited, so booking ahead makes planning your day much easier.

[View Buckingham Palace Tours and Tickets]

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