Karina's LookBook 05/06/24

What to Wear in Scottsdale (Everything I Packed!)

I just got back from my first trip to Scottsdale, Arizona and I absolutely loved visiting. I was there for a retreat with some colleagues and my management company. I wish I had gotten some more time to explore the area (it was a quick little getaway) but I definitely plan on coming back.

Because I had never been to this desert town before, I honestly wasn’t very confident about what I packed. I did my research, looked over my itinerary, and went from there. It turned out to be totally fine and I got good use out of every piece I packed.

Scottsdale is obviously a warm destination to visit in the spring and summer months, and it’s comfortable to cool during the winter and fall. With that being said, even when visiting during the peak heat season, temperatures can dip at night (it can feel especially chilly if you’ve gotten a sunburn.) Be sure to look at both the daytime and evening forecasts.

Packing lightweight pieces is important, but it’s also smart to tote along layers. This way, you’ll have options, and you won’t find yourself freezing when you go into a heavily air conditioned restaurant or bar.

Whether you’re heading to this popular destination for a girls trip or couples vacay, here’s exactly what to wear in Scottsdale. These outfit ideas are suitable for just about any outing you might have while visiting, including a night out, casual day at a resort, and more.

What to Wear in Scottsdale

A Comfy Travel Outfit

I don’t know about you but one of my top priorities when traveling is to stay comfortable. When I originally shared this travel outfit on my Instagram, I got a ton of messages asking how I pull off wearing white on an airplane. Honestly, I am just really careful, but of course things happen!

I’ve been loyal to this fleece travel set for quite some time now and love that it washes well (because it’s made with such high quality.) I also tend to get cold on airplanes, so I like to layer with a jacket.

Sandals are ideal for summer travel because you can easily slip them on and off. These are a great dupe for the slides I’m wearing below. Prefer sneakers? These are a recent fave and they go with everything.

white travel outfit to wear while going to scottsdale

Linen Shorts and a Blouse

If you’re visiting Scottsdale during the late spring or summer, linen shorts are a must-pack. They are the perfect material to wear in the heat because they’re so lightweight. I personally love the look of white shorts, but anything goes.

I styled them with this blue and white blouse, but I’m also linking a handful of similar options at different price points. I wore this outfit to lunch and to different meetings I had during my trip—it would also look cute for brunch, a night out, or a day spent shopping in Old Town!

white linen shorts outfit with blue blouse

An Athleisure Set

Need something comfortable yet chic to wear while you explore the resort? This is a good go-to. I always shop at Varley when I’m in the market for elevated athleisure. These shorts and tank make for the ideal combo—just throw a light layer over your shoulders in case you get cold.

For shoes, I pretty much wore sandals the whole time I was on the hotel property, but white sneakers would also work. Oh, and because Arizona is so sunny and warm, be sure to pack a baseball cap and plenty of sunglass options.

athleisure outfit with shorts and a matching tank top

A Knit Midi Dress

Whether you’re heading out to explore town or you’re hanging poolside, a knit midi dress makes for a fool-proof outfit choice. I’d recommend this piece if you’re visiting during the transitional seasons, like spring to summer or late fall to winter.

You could easily double the use of a midi dress by wearing it as a cover-up. Also, there are tons of options out there, so consider packing a tank dress or something with a slit (like the dress I’m wearing below.)

ribbed knit dress with raffia sandals and a wide brimmed hat

White Pants and a Graphic Tee

I mentioned above that it can really cool off during the evenings in Scottsdale, so be sure to pack some pants if you plan on being outside at night. It’s also smart to bring a pant outfit because so many places blast the AC.

I’m so glad I brought these white wide leg jeans because they went with so many other pieces I packed. Regardless of where you’re traveling, I also recommended prioritizing neutral pieces when you can. That way, you can mix and match them to create several looks (without over-stuffing your suitcase.)

I am admittedly not a huge graphic tee girl, but this one was too cute to pass up. Anthropologie also has a lot of chic options if you’re looking for more!

A Linen Dress

This was perhaps the most special piece I wore while I was in Scottsdale, and I know it will be a staple throughout the summer. Linen dresses feel like they were made for desert wear. They’re breathable, easy to slip on, and offer the perfect mix between casual and elevated.

You could dress this piece up by wearing heels instead of sandals, or by adding more statement-making jewelry.

Also, butter yellow seems to be the “it” color lately, and I’m totally here for the trend. The dress I’m wearing comes in both a long and short version (and yes, it has pockets!) I’m linking a few other yellow dresses I’m loving below.

Linen Pants and a Tank

Another simple yet practical outfit idea for Scottsdale: Linen-blend trousers and a ribbed tank. The white on white combo feels fresh for the spring and summer, and the slightly oversized cardigan adds a cool factor.

Either of the looks I’m wearing below could be worn from day to night. Go with raffia slides for a resort-casual vibe or strappy sandals if you’re planning on walking a lot.

A Button Down Top and Linen Shorts

I know I’m recommending a lot of linen pieces, but that’s because they’re the best for wearing in the desert heat. Start with any linen shorts that you like, then add a button down top to create an effortless, monochromatic look. Break the white-on-white up by accessorizing with a dainty belt.

This outfit is ideal for shopping, grabbing coffee, or even just for walking around the resort. You could also wear this while traveling if you want something that will keep you cooler—I’d just suggest bringing a cardigan or denim jacket along.

Swimsuits and Cover-Ups

When heading to the desert during the warm season, swimsuits and cover-ups are two non-negotiables. Most of the hotels and resorts in the area have generously sized pools that you’ll want to take advantage of. Even if you don’t plan on taking a dip, lounging in a cabana (with snacks and a cocktail) is the ultimate form of self-care.

If you’re in need of some new swimsuit recs, my favorites are from Hunza G. I actually have a full review on the brand, which you can read here.

Cover-ups are easy to find from Nordstrom, Revolve, Anthropologie, and even on Amazon if you want something that won’t break the bank—linking some I love below!

A Lightweight Pajama Set

I know I probably don’t need to remind you to pack pajamas, but I wanted to share some desert-appropriate picks! I have been loving short and long-sleeve PJ combos because they provide a good in-between for hot and cool temps.

If you’re visiting Arizona in the spring or summer like I did, bring lightweight jammies that are breathable (like cotton.) Also, if you don’t love walking around hotels with your bare feet, don’t forget to pack slippers!