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How to Dress for Davos?

Published in Davos Dress Code 4 mins read

Dressing for Davos requires a strategic blend of sophisticated business casual attire and practical measures to combat the challenging cold, dry, and snowy weather typically experienced in January.

Understanding the Davos Climate

Davos, nestled in the Swiss Alps, presents a distinct climate, especially during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in January. Attendees should anticipate cold, dry, and snowy conditions. This means warmth is paramount, and an effective wardrobe must account for freezing temperatures, potential snow, and dry air that can chap skin.

Navigating the Davos Dress Code: Business Casual Refined

The prevailing dress code in Davos leans towards the nicer side of business casual. This signifies a professional yet approachable look, distinct from traditional corporate formality. Think smart, polished, and comfortable, yet ready for high-level engagements.

The core elements include:

  • Suits worn without ties for men.
  • Trousers or skirts paired with jackets for women.

This balance allows for professionalism during meetings while accommodating movement between venues, often outdoors or in varied indoor environments.

Essential Attire Components

To meet both the climate and the dress code, consider these key items:

For Men:

  • Suits (No Tie Required): Opt for well-tailored suits in wool or a wool blend for warmth. Darker, neutral colors like charcoal, navy, or black are ideal. The absence of a tie offers a relaxed yet authoritative look.
  • Dress Shirts: Pair suits with crisp, long-sleeved dress shirts.
  • Tailored Trousers: Alongside suits, bring separate wool or heavy cotton trousers that can be mixed and matched with blazers or smart knitwear.
  • Blazers/Sport Coats: A high-quality blazer is a versatile layering piece for a less formal business casual look.
  • Warm Knitwear: Fine-gauge merino wool or cashmere sweaters, cardigans, or V-necks can be worn over shirts or under blazers for added warmth.

For Women:

  • Trousers and Skirts with Jackets: Professional trousers in wool, tweed, or other warm fabrics are essential. Pair them with tailored blazers or structured jackets.
  • Skirts: Opt for knee-length or midi skirts in warm materials, ensuring they are suitable for walking in cold conditions.
  • Professional Tops: Blouses, silk shirts, or fine-gauge knit tops that complement your jackets and skirts.
  • Dresses: Consider elegant, warm dresses (e.g., wool or knit) that can be layered with blazers or cardigans.
  • Blazers/Professional Jackets: A selection of well-fitting blazers is crucial for mixing and matching.

Practical Considerations for the Cold

Beyond the core attire, effective layering and appropriate outer- and footwear are critical for comfort and health in Davos's climate.

  • Layering is Key: Start with a base layer (thermal underwear if sensitive to cold), add your business attire, and finish with a warm mid-layer like a sweater or cardigan. This allows you to adapt to changing indoor and outdoor temperatures.
  • High-Quality Outerwear: A warm, waterproof, and windproof overcoat or parka is non-negotiable. Look for insulated options that extend to at least mid-thigh for maximum coverage. A removable hood can be a bonus for snowy conditions.
  • Footwear: Choose sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof or water-resistant boots with good traction. Leather or Gore-Tex lined boots are excellent choices. Avoid dress shoes that are thin-soled or slippery. Consider bringing both practical outdoor boots and a pair of polished indoor shoes for warmth and convenience.
  • Accessories: Don't underestimate the power of warm accessories. A wool or cashmere scarf, insulated gloves or mittens, and a warm hat (beanie or elegant wool hat) will provide significant protection against the cold.

Davos Packing Checklist

Category Item Notes
Core Attire Suits (no ties) Wool or blend for warmth, neutral colors
Tailored Trousers/Skirts Wool, tweed, or heavy fabrics
Blazers/Jackets Professional, structured
Dress Shirts/Blouses/Professional Tops Long-sleeved, quality fabrics
Warm Knitwear Merino wool, cashmere sweaters/cardigans
Outerwear Insulated Winter Coat/Parka Waterproof, windproof, ideally mid-thigh length
Footwear Waterproof Boots Sturdy, good traction, comfortable for walking
(Optional) Indoor Dress Shoes For polished look indoors; consider warmth
Layers Base Layers (Thermals) Optional, depending on personal cold tolerance
Accessories Warm Scarf Wool or cashmere
Gloves/Mittens Insulated
Warm Hat Beanie or elegant wool hat
Warm Socks Wool or thermal socks

General Tips for a Successful Davos Wardrobe

  • Comfort is Key: You'll be doing a lot of walking between venues, often outdoors. Prioritize comfort without sacrificing professionalism.
  • Versatility: Choose pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, minimizing luggage while maximizing options.
  • Professionalism First: While "no ties" offers a relaxed feel, the overall impression should remain one of executive polish and serious intent.
  • Pack Smart: Given the varied conditions, it's better to be slightly over-prepared for the cold than under-prepared.