How should an American tourist dress in Europe during the summer?

Question

I'm going to England, Italy, France, and Spain. I want to somewhat blend in and not look too American. Most guide books say to dress comfortably but comfy clothes usually aren't the most sophisticated and I heard that Europeans care more about appearance/dress than Americans. Any tips on packing and how to dress would be great.

Answer 1

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Answer 2

Whilst I think it is true that Europeans do care more about their appearance and dress more stylishly, it probably isn't worth investing in a whole new wardrobe.  I'd suggest that you take your more 'tailored' clothes with you.  For example, take fitted/boot cut jeans instead of those that just 'hang' like I see a lot of Americans wearing.  And when it comes to things like shorts, go for the more tailored city shorts that sit just above the knee rather than short, sporty-type shorts.  Accessories will also help you fit in better - don't use the tourist staple of a backpack but go for a normal leather bag (make sure it's one that sits just under your shoulder and keep the zip opening in front of you - it will help deter pick pockets).

Having said all that, Americans tend to stand out mostly because of their terrible attitude rather than what they are saying.  If you don't want to appear too American just don't talk incredibly loudly, don't keep harking on about how everything 'is better in the States' (we really don't think so), don't keep moaning about how small everything is (maybe American things are too big?) and don't expect everyone in Italy, France and Spain to talk English (not everyone in America speaks Italian, French and/or Spanish - why would they speak English?).  Once people realise that you're not the stereotypical 'ugly American' they'll welcome you with open arms and you'll fit in just fine!

Answer 3

I hear that tear-away track pants and "Taz" sweatshirts are really big over there in The Europe these days, don'tcha know.

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Answer 4

Wear black. I spent time in France, Italy, and Spain and I think the french were the best dressed actually. The French wear makeup everyday. So where some makeup, where a chic ( fashionable) top, and nice skinny jeans (black) and a scarf and makesure your hair and makeup look nice. Your shoes can be cute flats if you want to be comfy. Have fun!!

Answer 5

tank tops, t-shirts, shorts and comfy shoes are fine.  You won't stick out.  I would recommend not broadcasting you are american, if someone asks I would say Canadian, i have seen how rude american's can be treated.  Now if you're going to be one of those rude americans that have ruined for everyone don't say your canadian, don't wanna s***w up our rep either. lol.

Answer 6

In warm summer months, Europeans dress

more comfortably and casually than they used to,

especially the younger generations.

One general piece of advice would be to

stick to solid colors (not necessarily matching

top and bottom, but each one just one color),

or a very modest pattern.

Nothing says "AMERICANO" louder than

plaid pants or a Hawaiian flowered shirt.

Sinces styles and cuts are different between

America and Europe, short of buying clothes

there, you can't be invisible, but wearing

conservative clothes will definitely help.

Of the countries you mention, Italy and Spain,

being the warmest will feature more casual clothes,

English will wear somewhat more formal styles,

and France somewhere in between, varying between

North and South.