Appropriate Summer Wear for Arlington area? (Williamsburg, Washington: to rent, living in, price) - Northern Virginia - Virginia (VA) - City-Data Forum

katharsis · 03-23-2015, 08:24 AM

I am a 61-year-old woman living in Colorado who will be visiting Washington, D.C. and Colonial Williamsburg for the first time during the first week of July. I understand that it will almost certainly be very hot and humid at that time, and I find it very difficult to tolerate hot and humid weather!

Can you please give me appropriate wardrobe suggestions? I am 5'4" and a size 6/8, but I want long sleeves because of having "old lady" arms, and I will be wearing flats or low heels as we will be doing a lot of walking. I don't want to wear shorts, so I am thinking of white or light-colored loose slacks with a tank top and over-blouse for most of my time there. Would that be good for most sight-seeing? Any other suggestions regarding wardrobe (or anything else!) will be greatly appreciated!

P.S. Also, do you have any opinions, pro or con, as to which Washington airport to use?

Flamingo13 · 03-23-2015, 08:41 AM

That would be fine, do you wear capri's? (it Might be hot) - otherwise, maybe a longer skirt? National is a bit closer but you might be a better fare out of Dulles (still wouldn't be terrible). Have fun! (bring a light jacket as well for night-time in case)

michgc · 03-23-2015, 08:43 AM

Williamsburg can be stifling in July! I would not worry about your "old lady" arms and at least wear short sleeves! I went there several years back in July and to this day I still remember how hot it was - and I like the heat! Short sleeves, a skirt or skorts would be best if you don't wear shorts. Light colors and loose-fitting would be good, too. I would not layer. Bring a hat and sunglasses. And pack sunscreen. A small mist bottle might be worth bringing, too. My kids have one with a fan attached that works wonders when we're walking around in the summertime heat. Always carry a water bottle, too and wear sensible shoes - no heels - even low ones. Sneakers are best for a lot of walking. I'd plan the same for DC. Of course, you might luck out and hit them both during a cooler week, but if it's hot and muggy, be prepared!

Despite the weather, it should be an awesome trip. There is so much American history in both places! Great architecture and museums. You will love it. I suspect that Dulles would be a good airport to fly into, but I haven't flown to Denver in years. Good luck!

PK12 · 03-23-2015, 08:47 AM

The attire you have in mind sounds fine. Comfortable shoes are key, if you will be walking around a lot - stick to flats only, dont worry about low heels even, unless you go to dinner at a fancier, upscale place

PK12 · 03-23-2015, 08:52 AM

Regarding airports - definitely pick Reagan National over Dulles

apexgds · 03-23-2015, 08:59 AM

If you must have long sleeve and long pants, definitely go with lighter weight loose weave breezy clothes in light colors. But seriously consider skirts and short sleeve shirts. You may want to consider getting a cooling towel. They don't take up much space, and all you have to do is get it wet, wring it out and drape it on your neck to help keep your body temp down. I definitely wouldn't do heels ... do some research on good quality walking sandals.

If you're planning to stick to public transit while in DC, fly into DCA. If you're going to rent a car, consider Dulles or BWI as well.

katharsis · 03-23-2015, 09:16 AM

Thanks, everyone, for all the great input!

I have noticed some disagreement about "best airport." We will be renting a car and looking for easiest in and easiest out, as we do not know the area at all. (We will be staying at the Arlington Hyatt on Wilson Blvd. the first night, if that helps.)

Thanks!

ACWhite · 03-23-2015, 09:16 AM

I like your plan better than skirts and short sleeves. You can always remove the over-blouse (don't worry about your arms!). Capris do help if you will wear them rather than long pants. But the best clothing advice might be to come in May or September instead!

Vectorhead · 03-23-2015, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whocares811

Thanks, everyone, for all the great input!

I have noticed some disagreement about "best airport." We will be renting a car and looking for easiest in and easiest out, as we do not know the area at all. (We will be staying at the Arlington Hyatt on Wilson Blvd. the first night, if that helps.)

Thanks!

Reagan is way closer to Arlington than Dulles. But it's worth checking for fares into both airports. Sometimes there's quite a difference. If the price is close, choose Reagan!

ACWhite · 03-23-2015, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whocares811

Thanks, everyone, for all the great input!

I have noticed some disagreement about "best airport." We will be renting a car and looking for easiest in and easiest out, as we do not know the area at all. (We will be staying at the Arlington Hyatt on Wilson Blvd. the first night, if that helps.)

Thanks!

You may find different fares if you are flexible with airport choice. National is closer to DC and to most parts of Arlington. It is smaller than Dulles so a little easier to navigate for the unfamiliar.