Top 10: What Not to Wear in Europe: Style & Fashion Mistakes (2022)
It is widely known that Europe is a million times more fashionable than America. America may know a thing or two more about makeup than Europe, but America is completely dominated in the fashion world. I have been living in Switzerland now for about a month and before that, I was in Poland for 6 months. I can honestly say that I can now pick out an American in a crowd of a million Europeans.
It is not only that Americans are significantly louder and more expressive than our counterparts, but also that we dress down for everyday occasions. Here are some tips for you to blend in better with the European culture next time yThe EU fashion guide for all you trendy mommas.
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It is widely known that Europe is a million times more fashionable than America. America may know a thing or two more about makeup than Europe, but America is completely dominated in the fashion world. I have been living in Switzerland now for about a month and before that, I was in Poland for 6 months. I can honestly say that I can now pick out an American in a crowd of a million Europeans.
It is not only that Americans are significantly louder and more expressive than our counterparts, but also that we dress down for everyday occasions. Here are some tips for you to blend in better with the European culture next time you make a trip out here.
1 What Not to Wear in Europe
Follow these tips and you’ll be safe!
I love bun days. When your hair is looking messy and wrapping it up in a tight top knot can instantaneously make your hair look glamorous again. Sadly, it is an instant sign of an American if a girl puts her hair in this style.
In Europe buns of all shapes and sizes are reserved for the men. Try opting for a sleek pony or a French braid on your next bad hair day to avoid looking “masculine.”
Leggings (Exception: Eastern Europe)
This piece of clothing I miss the most. They are amazingly comfy and make your legs look toned to perfection. Unfortunately, leggings are only for when you are working out and not for everyday use, this includes your yoga pants.
In the words of the great Blair Waldorf, “Tights are not pants!” Listen to the queen on this one and avoid leggings if you want to blend in.
Converse / Vans / UGGs (UGGs Exception: Eastern Europe)
Sneakers, in general, are not a thing on this continent, this includes your precious UGGs. I know what you are thinking, “But, UGGs aren’t sneakers, they are boots!” You may be right about this, but it doesn’t matter because face it ladies; UGGs are not fashionable.
They are very comfy and warm, but if you ever took off your rose-shaded glasses, you would see how ugly they truly are. Opt-out for these types of shoes and instead pack your black booties and equestrian boots.
Sweatshirts
I realize I may be crushing your dreams when it comes to being comfy while you travel. I am sorry to announce that almost all types of sweats are socially banned from this continent.
Don’t be too sad though because some very comfy cardigans are fashionable and cute! You can go back to your hoodie-wearing attire when you return to the states, but as for now stick to more stylish warm clothing.
Ripped Jeans (Exception: Eastern Europe)
Not a thing here. I realize they are just coming back into fashion in America, at the likelihood make you stick out. Maybe it is because ripped jeans are very casual and casual dress is not something you often see in Europe. Either way, I would leave it out of your suitcase.
A Smile
“You are never fully dressed without a smile!” Wrong. Do not merrily smile when you are walking down the street or even show off your toothy whites proudly when talking with a friend. Unnecessary smiling is viewed as suspicious and you will get looks of distrust back instead of a return smile like you would in America.
It is very hard to adjust to, but it is strangely easier to meet people without one of these glued to your face.
2 What to Wear in Europe
Okay, so what works in Europe?
Black
Unleash your inner Goth and wear black on black on black. It is normal here and you get to feel like a ninja decked out in this dark color.
Wearing too much black in America makes people seem creepy, but here everyone does it! Embrace the culture and go Goth!
Bright Lipsticks
Due to the lack of color in their wardrobe, women like to color up their lips with fun colors. Like I said in a later article, dark lipsticks like purple and red are very in this season.
Go little nuts next time you hit up the makeup store to prepare yourself for your European adventure.
Pea Coats
I am not exaggerating when I say that everyone wears a pea coat in Europe. All the men, women, and children are bundled up in their black wool coats.
They are very fashionable and very slimming. When sweatshirts and winter jackets can make you look plump, pea coats fit your body well and often come with belts to help show off your figure.
Light Makeup
Women are very into lipstick here, but not much else in the makeup department. You can see women with some mascara, maybe a little eyeliner, and then their bright lipstick.
Dark eye makeup is not seen a lot around here and when I do see it, it rarely is worn by a person from this continent. My advice is to bring all your lipsticks and a mascara wand. You shouldn’t be wearing much more than that to blend in.
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Author: Sophia Strojny.ou make a trip out here.
1 What Not to Wear in Europe
Follow these tips and you’ll be safe!
I love bun days. When your hair is looking messy and wrapping it up in a tight top knot can instantaneously make your hair look glamorous again. Sadly, it is an instant sign of an American if a girl puts her hair in this style.
In Europe buns of all shapes and sizes are reserved for the men. Try opting for a sleek pony or a French braid on your next bad hair day to avoid looking “masculine.”
Leggings (Exception: Eastern Europe)
This piece of clothing I miss the most. They are amazingly comfy and make your legs look toned to perfection. Unfortunately, leggings are only for when you are working out and not for everyday use, this includes your yoga pants.
In the words of the great Blair Waldorf, “Tights are not pants!” Listen to the queen on this one and avoid leggings if you want to blend in.
Converse / Vans / UGGs (UGGs Exception: Eastern Europe)
Sneakers, in general, are not a thing on this continent, this includes your precious UGGs. I know what you are thinking, “But, UGGs aren’t sneakers, they are boots!” You may be right about this, but it doesn’t matter because face it ladies; UGGs are not fashionable.
They are very comfy and warm, but if you ever took off your rose-shaded glasses, you would see how ugly they truly are. Opt-out for these types of shoes and instead pack your black booties and equestrian boots.
Sweatshirts
I realize I may be crushing your dreams when it comes to being comfy while you travel. I am sorry to announce that almost all types of sweats are socially banned from this continent.
Don’t be too sad though because some very comfy cardigans are fashionable and cute! You can go back to your hoodie-wearing attire when you return to the states, but as for now stick to more stylish warm clothing.
Ripped Jeans (Exception: Eastern Europe)
Not a thing here. I realize they are just coming back into fashion in America, at the likely make you stick out. Maybe it is because ripped jeans are very casual and casual dress is not something you often see in Europe. Either way, I would leave it out of your suitcase.
A Smile
“You are never fully dressed without a smile!” Wrong. Do not merrily smile when you are walking down the street or even show off your toothy whites proudly when talking with a friend. Unnecessary smiling is viewed as suspicious and you will get looks of distrust back instead of a return smile like you would in America.
It is very hard to adjust to, but it is strangely easier to meet people without one of these glued to your face.
2 What to Wear in Europe
Okay, so what works in Europe?
Black
Unleash your inner Goth and wear black on black on black. It is normal here and you get to feel like a ninja decked out in this dark color.
Wearing too much black in America makes people seem creepy, but here everyone does it! Embrace the culture and go Goth!
Bright Lipsticks
Due to the lack of color in their wardrobe, women like to color up their lips with fun colors. Like I said in a later article, dark lipsticks like purple and red are very in this season.
Go little nuts next time you hit up the makeup store to prepare yourself for your European adventure.
Pea Coats
I am not exaggerating when I say that everyone wears a pea coat in Europe. All the men, women, and children are bundled up in their black wool coats.
They are very fashionable and very slimming. When sweatshirts and winter jackets can make you look plump, pea coats fit your body well and often come with belts to help show off your figure.
Light Makeup
Women are very into lipstick here, but not much else in the makeup department. You can see women with some mascara, maybe a little eyeliner, and then their bright lipstick.
Dark eye makeup is not seen a lot around here and when I do see it, it rarely is worn by a person from this continent. My advice is to bring all your lipsticks and a mascara wand. You shouldn’t be wearing much more than that to blend in.
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Clothes You Shouldn’t Wear as a Tourist in Europe: The Unspoken Rules of Travel Fashion
This article was co-authored by Archana Ramamoorthy, MS. Archana Ramamoorthy is the Chief Technology Officer, North America at Workday She is a product ninja, security advocate, and on a quest to enable more inclusion in the tech industry. Archana received her BS from SRM University and MS from Duke University and has been working in product management for over 8 years.
There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been viewed 15,195 times.
Europe is a diverse and densely packed place, so the fashion you see out your window can change even over the course of a day’s drive. But even if Dublin doesn’t wear the same clothes as Zagreb, there are definite trends that set Europe apart from other continents. There’s nothing wrong with being or looking like a tourist, but it’s undeniable that blending in, or at least making an effort, can get you a friendlier reception. [1] X Expert Source
Archana Ramamoorthy, MS
Experienced Solo Traveler Expert Interview. 26 February 2019. Good luck to you as you try to fit everything into that suitcase, and enjoy your time abroad!
Cargo clothing
If you’re covered in pockets, everyone knows you’re a tourist. Cargo pants, cargo shorts, travel vests. if the goal of your outfit is storage space, you’re going to stick out. Similarly, safari clothes and hiking clothes are great for the grand outdoors, but not so much for the center of Vienna. [2] X Research source
Fanny packs
- Pickpocketing is mostly a risk in the biggest, most tourist-filled cities, so those are where a subtle storage option is most important. If you’re in a low-crime area, wearing a backpack might make you blend in a bit less, but it’s not disrespectful or risky.
Shorts (indoors)
- Many places of worship won’t let you in if your clothing doesn’t cover your knees, shoulders, and most of your chest. Definitely plan around this if you want to see the many impressive Catholic, Orthodox, and Muslim holy sites (mostly in southern and Eastern Europe).
Workout clothes
Don’t wear gym clothes outside. Europeans almost never wear sweatpants or yoga pants out on the street, and even white athletic socks aren’t too common. A sweatshirt or hoodie isn’t a complete “no,” depending on the city and your age, but aim for “smart casual” instead if you want to look closer to the average pedestrian. [5] X Research source
Athletic clothing
- Tracksuits have a unique history in Eastern Europe and the UK. You might see them on the street, but wearing one yourself sends out some fairly complicated class and subculture signals! [7] X Research source
Baggy clothing
Aim for well-fitting clothing if you want to blend in. Plenty of Europeans wear a T-shirt and jeans, but compared to the USA, these clothes tend to be a much snugger fit (for all genders). [8] X Research source If you want a simple outfit that still fits Europe’s “smart casual” style, think slim or skinny jeans (often dark-colored or grey and undistressed), and a T-shirt that fits your frame. [9] X Research source
Flip-flops
- Don’t go too far in the other direction and only pack high heels! Getting around European cities can mean a lot of walking over cobblestones, so comfortable, broken-in shoes are important. [12] X Research source
Extra-loud colors and patterns
- In general, northern countries and colder seasons lead to duller outfits. A Scandinavian crowd in winter can look nearly monochrome. [15] X Research source
- Southern regions and summer weather means brighter clothes. A Spanish summer might feature warm but muted colors, stripes, and simple patterns. [16] X Research source
Sports logos
Regional sports logos make it clear you’re a visitor. There are a few famous teams (like the Yankees) that have made it abroad as a generic symbol of US coolness—not a sign of any personal connection. [17] X Research source But for the most part, sports logos from your home country will just mark you as a tourist. (If you’re a genuine fan of a European team or player, then repping them could earn you some friends—or rivals!)
Designer logos
Just like sports logos, these can out you as a visitor. A big Old Navy or Abercrombie logo across your chest is a pretty clear sign that you didn’t buy your clothes from the shop around the corner. It’s better to go with unbranded clothes, although a small logo or brand symbol isn’t a big deal. [18] X Research source
Patriotic symbols
Think twice before wearing any flag or national symbol. Announcing that you’re from abroad may not make a good first impression, especially in places where locals can be tired of tourists. Even local flags and symbols could be a bad idea depending on regional politics, or just local custom. For example, wearing a German flag in Germany could be seen as a bit weird. [19] X Research source
Community Q&A
Pack light by layering instead of bringing a lot of separate outfits. Carry-on only puts you at a huge advantage: you look less touristy, traveling to hotels is less exhausting, and you avoid the often exorbitant fees for checked baggage on flights within Europe. [20] X Research source
As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy!
If you expect to spend time in “semi-formal” settings, such as decent restaurants or a dinner party with a middle-aged or older crowd, make sure to pack something on the classy side, like a button-up shirt, blouse, or modest dress.
As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy!
Rules about swimwear can vary even from beach to beach, so look up local rules. In some places it’s important to change back to streetwear before leaving: for instance, the rules on a French beach might be lax, but you could get fined if you wear a bathing suit back to the parking lot. [21] X Research source
As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy!
Many places in Europe have recently passed laws against traditional Muslim clothing, and/or seen a rise in violence against people of Muslim and Jewish faith. Look into the local situation if you plan on wearing religious symbols or religious clothing, especially face coverings. [22] X Trustworthy Source Pew Research Center Nonpartisan thinktank conducting research and providing information on public opinion, demographic trends, and social trends Go to source
As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy!
The Ultimate Guide to Travel Clothes for Men in 2022
Legend has it that if you say YOLO three times in the dark, a Spirit Airlines ticket agent will appear in the mirror and hand you a plane ticket.
I’ve been too afraid to try it, mainly because Spirit Airlines is absolutely terrible. Just like you, I’m ready to get out and stretch my legs a bit after the year we had.
From road trips to long haul plane flights, this guide to travel clothes for guys will have you decked head to toe in the most stylish, comfortable, and secure duds.
Ready to be the best looking dude in the cabin? I thought so.
Our favorite travel pillow. The Infinity is the pillow your current travel pillow doesn’t want you to know about. It cancels noise (for real), and given how maneuverable it is, you can actually get it to support your neck no matter how awkward your sleeping position.
3 Clothing Brands Every Guy Should Know About for Travel
Before I dive into these three amazing brands, it’s important to note that I’ve picked them all because they have modern, slim silhouettes and are fashion-forward.
So, for instance, you’ll see that Public Rec is my choice for Comfort First. What I mean is that Public Rec is the most comfortable brand that still actually looks good and is convenient for travel.
You could wear your silk Batman pajamas, but the pockets aren’t good for your passport and, frankly, that’s something you should keep private. Come on—we’ve talked about this before.
But each brand here has a different specialty in addition to being incredible for travel, so keep an eye out for that.
Comfort First: Public Rec
The kings of casual comfort, Public Rec has an array of laid back clothes that are perfect for road trips, red-eyes, and relaxing getaways.
If comfort is your number one priority, invest in a quality pair of joggers. My favorite is the Public Rec All Day Every Day Jogger, which features a nice balance between an active aesthetic and a sweatpant feeling.
If you’re going to get joggers, choose quality. The minimalist slim fit design on these joggers hits an excellent balance between comfort and performance.
What’s even better is the left hip has a zippered pocket, so you can keep your passport secure on an international flight, or just make sure you don’t lose anything in the hustle and bustle of travel.
Above all, the ADED Jogger is stylish, trim, and has a much more refined look than any old sweatpant.
Pair your joggers with some simple white socks and sneakers, or, if you want to take your comfort to the limit, slip on a pair of slides and become the envy of every businessman untying their oxfords in the TSA line.
But Public Rec goes far beyond just joggers—they have a whole range of travel-friendly polos, henleys, button-downs, and even vests and bomber jackets.
It’s easy to create an entire wardrobe from Public Rec. Their colors are versatile and pair well with each other.
And if you need a duffel for your trip, check out their Weekender Bag. It’s my go-to travel bag. I keep everything I need for my business is my Alpaka Shift Backpack, and all my clothes, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes in the Public Rec Weekender.
It’s sturdy, handsome, and has pockets in all the right places so getting things quickly is super easy (which might not seem like a big deal, but you know that feeling when you’re holding up the boarding line because you left your headphones in your bag).
My Favorite Travel Picks from Public Rec
While its price places it at the premium end of the Leisurewear market, we think the All Day Every Day Pant justifies its price tag given its innovativeness, quality construction, and luxurious comfort.
This tech-inspired minimalist bag has just the right balance of structure and space. Public Rec calls it a Weekender, but it’s become a mainstay of the workweek for us.
Made with water-repellant Thinsulate, which is proven to beat down as an insulator in study after study. What do you get when you mix science and style? Pure dopeness.
Security First: Bluffworks
One of my life’s biggest regrets is that I wasn’t alive back when people wore suits on planes. I mean, I guess I still could. But it’s not the same.
People just gave up on the idea of suits for travel because they were uncomfortable. You might have missed the key word there: were.
The Bluffworks Gramercy Blazer and Pants makes for an outstanding travel suit. And not just because it has a modern slim fit.
The fabric can be folded, stuffed in a bag, and even thrown in the washing machine. Seriously. When was the last time you heard about a suit you could just toss in the wash?
Bluffworks created an unstructured suit and it’s our new favorite travel item. The relaxed blazer, paired with trousers loaded with hidden pockets and secure zippers make this suit an indispensable addition to our wardrobe.
But what I love most about Bluffworks is their devotion to sneaky pockets. Take the Bluffworks Ascender Chino for example: on the inside of the thigh (the reverse of the front left pocket) is a secret zippered pocket where you can store extra cash for travel.
This pocket is even better than a money belt because no one suspects it—it’s not something any other brand does. And, it can only be accessed from the inside of the pant. So you literally have to take your pants off to get to it.
Pickpockets are bad people, but they’re not going to make you take your pants off on the bus.
Everything Bluffworks designs is made with travel in mind. Sometimes there’s nothing you can do to not look like a tourist, and when you look out of place, you easily become a target for thieves.
I know it’s something I always think of when I’m traveling abroad (though I still fall for the “which cup is the ball under” trick 100% of the time). I’m more relaxed when I can feel my passport sitting against my leg. For that extra level of security while you’re busy buying your third gelato of the day, check out Bluffworks.
My Favorite Travel Picks from Bluffworks
Bluffworks created an unstructured suit and it’s our new favorite travel item. The relaxed blazer, paired with trousers loaded with hidden pockets and secure zippers make this suit an indispensable addition to our wardrobe.
Source https://www.airyhair.com/blog/5-fashion-style-mistakes-avoid-travelling-europe/
Source https://www.wikihow.com/What-Clothes-Should-You-Avoid-Wearing-in-Europe
Source https://theadultman.com/fashion-and-style/travel-clothes-men/