India is one of the most fascinating, diverse, and vibrant countries to visit, and whilst it isn’t the capital, Mumbai is certainly one of its most dynamic cities. I’ve visited 23 states in India and many of my visits have involved spending time in this fantastic city so I’ve compiled an article to help you decide what clothes to wear in Mumbai.
It’s a very different city to other tourist hotspots like Delhi and Jaipur, with high end bars & restaurants and upmarket shopping areas meaning what to wear in Mumbai isn’t so clear cut, but Whether you’re exploring historical sites, dining out, or simply strolling along Marine Drive, knowing what to wear in Mumbai can help ensure a comfortable and respectful experience.
What to Wear in Mumbai
In general, Mumbai’s dress code is quite relaxed compared to more traditional regions of the country, though climate and local culture still play a role in outfit choices. The hot and humid weather, particularly in summer, makes breathable, lightweight fabrics essential for comfort.
Everyday Wear in Mumbai
Much of Mumbai is fashionable and modern and depending on where you go in the city you’ll see many people in Western attire—such as jeans, t-shirts, and dresses— especially in upscale areas like Colaba and Bandra.
I do tend to overheat quite easily so I don’t always like having sleeved clothing, but generally in Mumbai you’ll be fine with vest top/spaghetti straps in the modern areas of the city. However I often opt for loose trousers with a vest top, paired with a scarf to cover my shoulders when necessary. Adding this light scarf for both sun protection or when visiting religious sites makes it easy to adapt to different situations.
Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen are perfect for the city’s warm climate, and loose-fitting clothes help stay comfortable in crowded areas. Avoid any skirts or trousers that drag on the floor however as otherwise you’ll be dodging puddles & rubbish in certain areas. While shorts and skirts are generally accepted, avoid anything too short to maintain comfort in public spaces where traditional attire is more common.
Embracing Traditional Attire in Mumbai
Mumbai is a great place to experiment with traditional Indian attire. Wearing kurtas, salwar kameez, or sarees is a fun and respectful way to engage with local fashion. Far from cultural appropriation, locals are generally welcoming of genuine attempts to wear Indian clothing. On the occasions I’ve worn a saree I’ve had to ask a lady at my hostel or hotel to help me drape it correctly and if it’s a staff member I’ll offer a tip to say thank you for their time.
Mumbai markets like Colaba Causeway and street markets near the Gateway of India offer a variety of traditional clothing options, from vibrant saris to elegant kurtas. Experimenting with these garments can be both stylish and practical, as they’re often loose and made from cool fabrics , designed with India’s hot climate in mind.
Don’t be afraid of colour when deciding what to wear in Mumbai
Far from the uniform of black in London & NYC, across India people embrace colour and walking along the streets you’ll see bright pinks, greens, yellows and many statement colours, often paired with glittering jewellery. I embrace this chance to wear colour and often wear both western attire and Indian clothing in bright colours.
What to wear in Mumbai when visiting religious sites
While Mumbai is quite progressive, dressing modestly at religious sites remains just as important as it does in any area of the country. As a minimum you should cover your shoulders, chest, and knees out of respect. I always carry a lightweight shawl or scarf as it can be easily draped over your shoulders when needed. At temples and some other religious sites, you’ll be expected to remove your shoes, so I often wear sandals/birkenstocks in order to slip them on and off quickly.
Of course if you are visiting a mosque then you will as a woman need to cover your head, a scarf can be useless for this too, although do make sure you have a big enough one to cover both your hair and your shoulders.
What to Wear in Mumbai’s Cooler Seasons
Mumbai doesn’t experience intense winters and it tends to be fairly warm to hot all year round, however the months of December to February can be cooler, especially in the evenings. A light jacket or sweater is generally sufficient. If you’re heading to hill stations nearby, consider bringing a few extra layers to stay warm.
Mumbai dress code at the beaches
Mumbai’s beaches are much more conservative than those in Goa. At spots like Juhu Beach or Girgaum Chowpatty, locals usually avoid wearing swimsuits, and the women who do enter the water often do so fully clothed. I haven’t seen anyone at these beaches wearing revealing swimwear, and whilst there isn’t technically a rule against doing so, you’re likely to feel uncomfortable get a lot of stares or unwanted attention.
If you’re wondering – can I wear a bikini in Mumbai? Bikinis are acceptable at private hotel pools, but it’s generally advisable to wear a t-shirt and shorts or leggings at public beaches in Mumbai to blend in and feel comfortable. You’re highly unlikely to see anyone sunbathing in Mumbai, the beaches are more used for walking or playing.
What to Wear in Mumbai for Men
Men’s dress codes in Mumbai are fairly flexible. Lightweight trousers or jeans paired with t-shirts are practical for daily wear, although cotton or linen pants are a great alternative to thick denim in hot weather. While shorts are generally accepted, especially in tourist-friendly areas, some locals may still view shorts as more casual attire. In upscale restaurants and cultural sites, long pants might be more suitable.
Dressing for Comfort and Cultural Sensitivity in Mumbai
Dressing for Mumbai is a balance between comfort and respect for local customs. By packing versatile pieces including Western and perhaps buying some traditional outfits while you’re there, you’ll be well-prepared for any scenario.
Related posts –
