Walking up the Champs Elysees in Paris one spring, we met two couples who had been fellow passengers with us on a river cruise boat. Their walks through Paris had been marred by encounters with people hassling them for money, who seemed to be able to pick them out right away as tourists. We hadn't had this problem, but we weren't wearing jogging shoes and American baseball team caps.
Wherever you go, dress to blend in and avoid bringing attention to yourself.
In a city, dress like you are going to work in a city shop or office, not like you're on your way to a hometown game, or a day at the beach.
Dress like a grown-up if you are. Europeans don't dress like they wish they were kids.
Good Travel Clothes Choices:
Pants in neutral colors like black, brown, beige or dark navy.
Jeans, but if you're not a teenager, not "teen" style jeans.
Lighter pants for men instead of golf shorts in the city in the summer.
Women: knee-length city shorts, calf-length capris, a knee-length loose skirt or dress.
No bandeau tops, or carry a shawl to cover your shoulders when entering cathedrals.
Low-heeled leather walking shoes or flats. Pavement can be uneven.
Plain shirts, blouses or neutral-colored t-shirts. Avoid identifying slogans and eye-catching embellishments like glitter, embroidery, feathers and big flower patterns.
A light blazer or cardigan for cool evenings.
Simple, minimal accessories. Leave fine jewelry at home.
Natural make-up and clear-polished nails (easier upkeep when traveling.)
No-fuss hairstyles. European women aren't overly bleached/permed/curled/layered/styled.
Sunglasses (adults don't wear baseball caps to shade their eyes in the city.)
Spring or Fall: Add a sweater and a light leather or wool jacket. Take an umbrella or raincoat/jacket. Winter: A winter coat (ski jacket if you're skiing.) Boots.
