Fall Scrubs Guide: What to Wear for Cooler Weather

Crisp mornings. Unpredictable afternoons. Chilly commutes home. Fall has a way of keeping you on your toes. Your day might start with a shiver in the parking lot, heat up under fluorescent lights, then end with a brisk walk to your car after dark. In healthcare, dressing for the season isn’t just about pulling on warmer clothes—it’s about scrubs that adapt to shifting temps, carry you through 12-hour shifts and keep you looking polished in front of patients and coworkers.

That’s exactly what Cherokee scrubs are made for. With fabrics that flex, layers that move with you and styles that balance comfort and professionalism, we’ll walk you through the best pieces to make fall-weather dressing effortless.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Fall Comfort

When temperatures start to dip, the fabric you choose makes all the difference. Our scrubs keep you warm without weighing you down, wick away sweat when things heat up and bring seasonal color into your rotation.

Warmth Without Bulk

The last thing you want on shift is to feel restricted. Cherokee’s Workwear Originals and Workwear Revolution collections feature soft, durable poly-cotton blends that keep you warm while staying lightweight. Select pieces even feature a brushed finish that adds a subtle layer of insulation, perfect for cooler mornings that don't quite call for a thick jacket.

Moisture Control and Odor Protection

Even when it’s cold out, long shifts can still make you sweat. Cherokee’s Atmos collection integrates PROTX2® odor-fighting technology to help you stay fresh all day long. That means you can move from a busy morning in a heated ward to an evening commute home without feeling damp or uncomfortable.

Seasonal Colors and Prints

Fall is the perfect excuse to refresh your color palette. Rich jewel tones, earthy neutrals and subtle seasonal prints instantly give your look a warmer edge. Workwear Originals offers classic colors like wine, navy and hunter green, while Tooniforms brings a playful twist with autumn-ready patterns for pediatrics or themed shifts.

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Layering Strategies for Shifting Temps

When temps swing from chilly to stuffy in the span of a shift, smart layering is key. The right base layers and outerwear keep you comfortable without compromising movement or style.

Underscrubs That Work Overtime

Long-sleeve knit tees or lightweight underscrubs can be a great addition to your fall work wardrobe. Look for fabric with stretch and moisture-wicking tech to add warmth without any extra bulk under your scrub top. And stick to neutral or coordinating colors so your base layer blends seamlessly with your whole look.

Outerwear That Matches Your Scrubs

Sometimes you need more than an underscrub layer. When you’re heading outside between shifts or working in a drafty unit, a scrub jacket can be a game-changer. Cherokee’s men’s and women’s scrub jackets are designed to pair perfectly with your scrub sets. Our styles feature movement-friendly cuts, easy-care fabrics and plenty of pockets for storage and organization on the go.

For a little extra warmth without restricting your arms, a lightweight vest is another great option—especially if your day involves frequent patient lifting or lots of movement.

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Accessories for Extra Warmth

Small outfit details can make a big impact on comfort. Compression socks not only support circulation during long shifts, they also add a layer of warmth when temps drop. In cooler settings, a soft scrub cap helps hold in body heat while adding a personal touch to your uniform.

Fall-Ready Scrub Style Inspiration

Colder weather doesn’t mean compromising style. Here are a few polished, ready-to-wear combinations that bring together warmth, comfort and seasonal color:

• The Women's Dolman V-Neck Top and the Elastic Waist Utility Scrub Pant in wine, paired with a matching warm-up jacket for a rich, coordinated look.
• The Women’s Mock Wrap Top and the Drawstring Flare Scrub Pant in hunter green, topped with a coordinating snap-front jacket for a sleek, tailored feel.
• The Men’s Jogger Scrub Pant and the Men’s V-Neck Utility Scrub Top in navy, layered over a navy or light grey long-sleeve underscrub for just the right pop of personality.

Your Fall-Ready Scrub Wardrobe

From breathable underscrubs to jackets that match your set, Cherokee makes it easy to layer up without losing your professional edge. Whether you lean toward timeless solids or seasonal prints, the right combination will keep you warm, comfortable and confident through every shift.

Fall weather is just another reason to refresh your rotation—and show up looking and feeling your best.