What Not to Wear in Europe 2019 | Airfarewatchdog Blog (2024)

You’re a traveler, not a tourist, so dress like it. Avoid branding yourself as an American before even opening your mouth by knowing what not to wear in Europe. Here’s what to leave at home if you want to blend in.

6 Things You Should Not Wear in Europe

A Non-Ironic Fanny Pack

Are you a hip teenager with the confidence to ironically wear a designer fanny pack slung over your shoulder? Then you can get away with a fanny pack. Those of us tempted to pull out our old nylon, anti-theft fanny pack and strap it over our jeans can’t pull it off. Know your sartorial limits and opt for a more discreet (but still safe) way to carry your money, such as this pickpocket-proof crossbody or backpack.

Related: Never Wear These Items at the Airport

Head-to-Toe Sports Gear

You’ll see plenty of people who don’t know the difference between baseball and cricket rocking a Yankees hat all across Europe, where hats from certain city’s teams (mainly the Yankees, the Red Sox, and the Dodgers) are a fashion statement. But you’ll never see a local pair that hat with the matching jersey or a football sweatshirt. You could even try to go ultra-native with a shirt from the local team. Just make sure you know a little bit about the sport first; no one likes an imposter.

Hiking Clothes

I’m always baffled when I see tourists wearing zip-off cargo pants, hiking shoes, and multi-pocketed vests in an urban environment. Are they going on a city safari at the zoo? Of course, you want to be comfortable while exploring, but that’s something you can still achieve in normal clothing, not something you’d wear on a multi-day expedition.

Flip Flops

In Europe, flip flops are for the beach, and nowhere else. And for good reason. Have you ever looked at how gross your feet get after walking around a city in a pair? The locals and your podiatrist will thank you for confining this footwear choice to the pool, and picking a more stylish and comfortable pair for everywhere else. Try some waterproof sneakers if you really object to changing your footwear on the way to the museum from the beach.

Related: Why Do We Dress so Badly When We Fly?

Regular Sneakers

All of the old guidebooks used to mention sneakers as a surefire way to out yourself as a tourist in Europe. That’s outdated advice now that sneakers are having a fashion moment. You’ll see sneakers on practically everyone (even those chunky white ones), styled with jeans, dresses, or even suits. The key here is buying the right kind of sneakers. Don’t just pack your neon-bright running shoes. Pick something with a little more style, like one these ones from Veja, a hugely popular brand among European fashionistas.

American-Only Branded Clothing

Many Europeans love rocking obnoxiously logoed clothes, so I’m not going to tell you to leave all your beloved brands behind. An Adidas shirt isn’t going to immediately mark you as a tourist. But if you’re wearing a brand that’s only sold in America, it will make you stand out more. Maybe leave your Old Navy American flag t-shirt at home, unless you think you can pull off the “trendy European who vacationed in New York City recently look.” A plain, unbranded shirt will look better and more timeless in photos anyway. Amazon Basics has affordable ones in nearly every color if you want to stock up.

Caroline Morse Teel is a Senior Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @travelwithcaroline.

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What Not to Wear in Europe 2019 | Airfarewatchdog Blog (2024)

FAQs

What Not to Wear in Europe 2019 | Airfarewatchdog Blog? ›

Are jeans acceptable in Europe? Jeans are not only acceptable to wear in Europe, but very popular. Jeans are part of the dress code in most Cities across Europe and are always a huge part of European fashion! It's not recommended to wear them in the summer but any time of year they are a great choice.

Is it OK to wear jeans in Europe? ›

Are jeans acceptable in Europe? Jeans are not only acceptable to wear in Europe, but very popular. Jeans are part of the dress code in most Cities across Europe and are always a huge part of European fashion! It's not recommended to wear them in the summer but any time of year they are a great choice.

Do Europeans wear graphic tees? ›

At the top of the list for what not to wear to look European are graphic tees. You'll never see a European in a graphic tee announcing where they went to college or what sports team they root for. And don't even get me started on those sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek graphic tees.

Can you wear skinny jeans in Europe? ›

Wear things you feel comfortable in. Jeans, especially skinny jeans, are worn by many Europeans, but they don't make for great travel pants, as they take very long to dry. Build a European Fashion capsule wardrobe for your trip with pieces that you can layer and mix and match and wear with each other.

What do you wear in Italy to not look like a tourist? ›

ENJOYING THIS ARTICLE?
  1. Dress Nicely. Europeans tend to dress much less casually than we do in the States. ...
  2. Keep Your Shoes On. ...
  3. Shoulders And Knees Must Be Covered In Church. ...
  4. Don't Call During Pisolino. ...
  5. Punctuality Is Not A Priority. ...
  6. Italians Don't Wait In Line. ...
  7. Fare La Bella Figura. ...
  8. Familiarize Yourself With Campanilismo.
Jul 22, 2021

Do people dress nice in Europe? ›

Features of European Fashion

People like to dress nicely and often wear custom-tailored or well-fitted clothing no matter where they're going. They also follow certain dress codes, social expectations, and etiquette in public places to avoid standing out too much from the crowd.

Do French people wear jeans? ›

Jeans are definitely one of the staples of the French wardrobe. It's that kind of basic that flatters most body types, can be worn all year long, pared down or dressed up, and can be worn for every occasion while offering maximum comfort.

What should I wear on a long flight to Europe? ›

Tips For What To Wear On A Longhaul Flight
  • Long Haul Flight Hygiene Information.
  • Antibacterial Wipes To Clean Your Seat Area.
  • A Big Bag Or Backpack.
  • Compression Socks.
  • Stretchy-Loose Pants.
  • Cotton Top.
  • Jacket That Also Doubles As A Blanket.
  • Long Jackets.

Are ripped jeans still in style in Europe? ›

Any clothes with decorative rips or holes are a giveaway American fashion. Though they are starting to come in fashion in Europe, especially among the younger crowd, they are generally seen as low fashion and should be entirely avoided.

Can I wear leggings in Italy? ›

Are leggings okay to wear in Italy? Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they're often too casual looking as pants for Italy. If you're a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

Do Europeans wear north face? ›

The North Face accounted for more than a third of the outdoor apparel market by 2012, according to the New York Times. And the brand is just not as popular in Europe and other countries abroad with colder climates.

How can I look more European? ›

How to Dress European
  1. Stick to classic clothing, you can also dare to be trendy with some pieces because it is Europe after all.
  2. Wear neutral colors.
  3. Bring comfortable walking shoes that look elevated.
  4. Leave the athleisure wear and logos at home.
Jul 27, 2022

Are baggy jeans popular in Europe? ›

Europeans love their clothes to fit a little slimmer, almost tight. Therefore, if you want to look Parisian, don't wear baggy clothes! Another trick to make you look European is to layer up: shirt, sweater and coat on top. Men in Europe love to wear layers, especially during the colder seasons.

Do Parisians still wear skinny jeans? ›

The French style of dressing denim is simple, yet chic. The jeans that French women wear are usually a straight leg pair that are a bit loose. French women tend to shy away from skinny jeans, and prefer a high waist dark denim pair.

Can I show my stomach in Italy? ›

Yes. The Vatican, as well as the main basilicas in Rome, apply a strict dress code that wants no shorts, no mini skirts, no sleeveless tops and no revealing clothes (no bareback, bare belly etc).

Can I wear sneakers in Italy? ›

The best ones to pack are those that come with a rubber sole and cushioning for walking. If you prefer to keep your feet covered, closed-toe sandals light summer sneakers are also a good choice; however, make sure they are truly breathable as the temperatures in Italy can be scorching!

What is considered pretty in Europe? ›

Both European men and women enjoy natural features, nicely done hair with a color that complements the skin tone, short and clean nails, beautiful skin, and makeup that doesn't stand out too much.

What do Europeans prefer to wear? ›

Just like in America, Europeans wear all styles of clothes and it varies from country to country. That said, styles do tend to be a little more “dressy” but many Europeans are moving toward a more casual, t-shirt, sneakers, and jeans wardrobe.

Do they wear bras in France? ›

The no-bra movement has been predominant among French women, who seem to be more conscious about freedom from traditional clothing norms. In 2020, 18% of French women aged between 18 and 24 years said they never or seldom wore bras.

Can I wear jeans to dinner in Paris? ›

Jeans (besides dark or black-wash) are usually safest to avoid. I'd recommend a skirt, tights, and a nice blouse—paired with either boots or heels. If you're ever unsure of what would be allowed, opt for semi-formal attire: a dress or skirt (always with tights) or slacks.

Do people wear sandals in Paris? ›

Yes, Parisians are slightly more casual than their reputation suggests, but their sideways glances at flip-flops will absolutely make any sandal-wearer realize they have crossed a line. Flip-flops in France are reserved for beaches or for wearing around the house; everywhere else is a faux pas for sure.

Should you wear leggings on a plane? ›

They're the obvious comfy choice of clothing for a long flight - but next time you're heading on a break, you should think twice about wearing leggings for your flight. According to one aviation expert, they are one of the most dangerous things a passenger could wear if an emergency occurs onboard.

How do you look classy on a long flight? ›

Designers Share Their Top Long-haul Style Tips
  1. Dress in black and white. “Monochromatic tones are an effortless way to look your best. ...
  2. Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics. ...
  3. Stick to a uniform. ...
  4. Pack a different outfit for the plane. ...
  5. Dress in cashmere. ...
  6. Carry a stylish bag. ...
  7. Take mini hair products.

What not to wear when flying? ›

What not to wear on a plane
  • Jewelry or bulky accessories. Metal will slow you down at security—it's one of the things more likely to get you flagged by the TSA. ...
  • Anything tight. ...
  • An uncomfortable bra. ...
  • Skimpy clothing. ...
  • Fragrance. ...
  • High heels, flip-flops and slides. ...
  • Fabrics that are flammable. ...
  • Bulky jackets.
Mar 29, 2023

Can I wear shorts in Europe? ›

Europeans may wear shorts more frequently when they're on vacation but I don't think they tend to wear them as much as Americans during their leisure hours, especially in cities. You can wear what you want, but in Europe we don´t go to work on shorts you know.

What should I pack for Europe in September? ›

Europe in September is generally comfortably warm. But temperatures can become cool in the mornings and evenings. I packed a light cardigan and a light windbreaker to layer over my t-shirts and dresses when it got chilly. A cardigan or scarf is also ideal for visiting religious sites with stricter dress codes.

How do you blend in while traveling in Europe? ›

Try to blend in.

Speak quietly and don't draw attention to yourself. Don't behave like a tourist, and be polite and courteous. You probably won't fool people thinking that you're European for long, but you can leave them with a good impression of yourself.

Are white pants OK in Italy? ›

Pile on the neutral colors

Meanwhile, the “no white after Labor Day” rule in Italy doesn't exist: Locals love winter white, especially for jeans and sweaters.

Can you wear flip flops in Italy? ›

And yes, this is a real thing, Italian's just don't wear flip-flops. While in Italy it is important to steer away from these types of shoes, especially if you will be in a big city like, Florence or Milan visiting churches or museums all day.

How do tourists dress in Italy? ›

To dress in Italy, opt for clothes with clean lines that fit you well, like button-down shirts for men and capri pants for women. Additionally, choose classy shoes such as boots or ballet flats, since Italians generally frown on wearing things like flip flops in public.

Do Europeans wear peacoats? ›

A version of the jacket has been worn by European and American sailors for nearly three centuries, so it's probably not surprising that there are several different versions of the peacoat story out there.

Can I wear leggings in London? ›

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in London? Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they're often too casual looking as pants for London. If you're a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

What color are most European eyes? ›

Dark brown eyes are dominant in humans. In many parts of the world, it is nearly the only iris color present. Brown eyes are common in Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, West Asia, Oceania, Africa and the Americas.

What is the most beautiful European race? ›

Mille Miglia Race has a special and historic tradition: the first official race took place in 1927, until 1938, then, starting from the year 1947 it has become the most important annual event of the area of Brescia.

Which European country has the most attractive citizen? ›

The people of Ukraine have been named as the sexiest in the world, according to a new survey. Men and women hailing from the Eastern European nation were found to be the most attractive, followed by Danish and Filipino in third.

What pants are popular in Europe? ›

Jeans are always popular and will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe. Wear them with cool layers such as camisoles or t-shirt for the summer, or warmer ones e.g. a long-sleeved shirt and jumper in the winter.

Are Levi jeans popular in Europe? ›

Levi's remains by far the most popular denim brand in Europe,” he said.

Which countries wear jeans the most? ›

Worldwide market for jeans

North America accounts for 39% of global purchases for jeans, followed by Western Europe at 20%, Japan and Korea at 10% and the rest of the world at 31%. United States consumers spent more than US$14 billion on jeans in 2004 and US$15 billion in 2005.

Do they wear leggings in Paris? ›

Sweatpants and leggings, though popular with the athleisure trend, are generally not thought of as sophisticated and chic and this is why they are just some of the things French women don't wear.

What is casual dress in France? ›

A dress shirt over a clean pair of jeans, and leather shoes: this is fine for a casual night out. A sports-jacket or sweater in winter will complete your outfit nicely. Ties are optional although a lot of Frenchmen wear them for work and when they go out.

What style jeans are in style in Italy? ›

Italians tend to wear basic blue jeans a lot less often than their counterparts elsewhere. It's not that women are always in dresses, and men in suits; it's that when they do throw on trousers, they're rarely basic jeans or khakis. Instead, pants come in a rainbow of colors. And yes, that's true for women and men.

Can I wear leggings in Europe? ›

Can I wear leggings in Europe? Leggings aren't that popular in Europe. I love wearing leggings but I have noticed in many European destinations, I instantly look like a tourist when I do! They are not a huge part of European fashion and are normally only used for exercise or going to the gym.

How do I not overpack for Europe? ›

How to Avoid Overpacking for a Trip
  1. Make a Checklist. A checklist is the best place to start. ...
  2. Pick the Right Suitcase. Choose a modestly-sized suitcase. ...
  3. Mix and Match. This is the fun part. ...
  4. Roll Them Up! ...
  5. Keep the Accessories Small. ...
  6. Shoes, Shoes, Shoes. ...
  7. Only Take Half. ...
  8. Use a Luggage Scale.

What should I pack in my suitcase for Europe? ›

Europe Travel Packing List
  • 1 dress/elegant shirt.
  • 1 cardigan/sweater.
  • 1 lightweight jacket.
  • 1 pair of dark wash jeans.
  • 1 pair of trousers/capris.
  • 1 pair of shorts.
  • 1 pair of long underwear/wool leggings.
  • 1 pair of tennis shoes.

What is not allowed in hand luggage Europe? ›

Hand luggage and hold luggage

Liquids carried in the aircraft cabin such as aerosols, drinks, toothpaste, cosmetic creams or gels must be carried in a transparent plastic bag - maximum capacity 1 litre - and no container may hold more than 100 ml. Liquid containers larger than 100 ml must be placed in checked baggage.

Is there a dress code in Europe? ›

There's no uniform style or dress code among all of Europe's countries, but on a whole, Europeans dress in a more polished way than Americans do. Dress to impress during most of your trip and save your most worn and comfortable clothing for the plane ride.

How not to dress like a tourist? ›

If you want to avoid looking like a tourist, don't wear clothes with location-specific text or designs. Whether it's a shirt with the name of your hometown or a cap that proclaims your love for the place you're visiting, nothing gives you away as a tourist more than branded merchandise.

What is banned in carry-on luggage? ›

Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

What items Cannot go in hold luggage? ›

Hold luggage banned items
  • Flammable liquids and solids.
  • Oxidisers such as bleaching powders.
  • Organic peroxides.
  • Tear gas devices or any gas cylinders.
  • Infectious substances such as live virus materials.
  • Wet-cell car batteries.
  • Magnetrons. Instruments containing mercury.
  • Instruments containing magnets.

What items are not allowed in your suitcase? ›

Items that are not allowed in checked luggage
  • Aerosols (in most cases) ...
  • Any device containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries. ...
  • Bug spray. ...
  • Christmas crackers. ...
  • Compressed gases. ...
  • Corrosive or oxidizing chemicals. ...
  • Cremated remains. ...
  • Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons.

What is the best outfit to wear on a plane? ›

When choosing what to wear on a plane, look for stylish tops made with natural fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool or linen, which will allow air and moisture to pass through. Moisture-wicking man-made fabrics are an equally savvy option.

Is it OK to wear leggings in Europe? ›

It's fine, though it will make you more even more readily identifiable as a non-local than you already are so just make sure you have your wits about you while walking about. As much as I love yoga pants, I like to at least somewhat look the part of a local so I usually wear jeans and flats.

Do people wear sandals in Europe? ›

Yes, you can wear shorts and sandals while traveling in Europe, but you might get some funny looks from locals. In general, Europeans dress a bit more formally than Americans, so shorts and sandals may not be considered appropriate attire in some situations.

How do you dress nice but not too fancy? ›

The go-to outfit is typically a pair of slacks in a neutral color, such as khaki, navy blue, or black. This is worn with a nice dress shirt. If you want, add a cardigan or blazer on top. Examples of a nice dress shirt include collared button-up shirts, crewnecks, ruffled blouses, cashmere sweaters, and vests.

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