I still remember spending a fall day in Washington, DC, wearing a thin jacket that seemed perfectly fine that morning.

The sun was out and everything was going according to plan. Then, around 4:00 in the afternoon, the wind picked up across the National Mall. The cold went straight through my jacket, and suddenly I was paying more attention to the temperature than the monuments around me.

All I wanted was another warm layer.

Now, at Abe’s Gifts DC, we see visitors have that same experience every fall. Someone comes in planning to buy a magnet or keychain and leaves wearing a Washington DC hoodie because the weather changed before the day was over.

The Four O’Clock Hoodie Problem

Sightseeing in Washington involves more outdoor walking than many visitors expect. Even with museums on the itinerary, there are still walks between Metro stations, museum entrances and monuments.

By late afternoon, open areas around the National Mall and The Wharf can feel especially windy. That is why a DC hoodie often becomes both a souvenir and something useful for the rest of the trip.

Try the 30-Second Hoodie Check

Before buying, try on the hoodie and take 30 seconds to check the fit:

• Raise your arms as if you were taking a photograph.

• Make sure your phone fits securely inside the pocket.

• Pull up the hood and make sure it does not tighten the neckline.

• See whether the sleeves sit comfortably around your wrists.

• Test the zipper if it is a full-zip style.

Try it over the clothes you are already wearing. If you plan to layer it over a thicker shirt or sweater, leave a little extra room.

Choose Something You Will Wear Again

Some visitors want bold Washington DC lettering or graphics featuring the U.S. Capitol, American flag or cherry blossoms. Others prefer a simpler design that works with clothes they already own.

Before choosing, ask:

“Would I still wear this next month?”

If the answer is yes, you have found more than an emergency layer.

You May Need Something Other Than a Hoodie

If you already have a warm coat, a Washington DC beanie or scarf may be enough for a windy evening. A crewneck sweatshirt may work better if you want warmth without a hood.

Abe’s Gifts DC carries hoodies, crewneck sweatshirts, beanies and scarves for adults and children. Designs, colors and sizes vary by location and season.

Find the Abe’s Gifts DC Store Closest to Your Route

Visit our L’Enfant Plaza store if you are exploring the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, International Spy Museum or The Wharf:

429 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 440

For the White House, Metro Center and Downtown hotel area, visit our Downtown store:

733 13th Street NW

Our third location at 917 F Street NW is near Ford’s Theatre, the National Portrait Gallery and Capital One Arena. At the time of publication, this store is temporarily closed for renovations. Check its location page before visiting for the latest information.

You can also browse our Washington DC hoodies online before your trip or after returning home.

Sometimes the best souvenir is the one that keeps you comfortable during the trip and continues to remind you of it afterward.