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Are you prepared to spend two weeks in Europe, but you still haven’t figured out what to bring & what to wear?
We are generally concerned with our appearance and how others view us. But even if you don’t care too much about how you look, it’s best to dress like a local when you travel.
By the time you’ve finished reading this, I’m hoping you’ll have a good sense of how to dress like someone from Europe.
However, there are a few things you should know about European dress style before I tell you what to pack for Europe.
Dressing like a local would be the best way to feel at home in Europe.
Don’t go all out like you’re going to the Academy Awards, but also don’t look like you rolled out of bed.
Wearing something that makes you stand out as a tourist increases your risk of being a victim of pickpocketing and other forms of fraud while in Europe.
When trying to blend in more like a local in Europe, it’s just as important to know what not to wear as it is to know what to wear.
The way you dress can influence the level of service you receive in Europe and prevent you from being targeted by pickpockets because you stand out as a “out-of-towner.”
Follow the lead of the locals and dress like the unique Europeans that you will be among.
When Americans and Australians travel abroad, they tend to dress in a certain way that immediately gives their nationality away. Do not behave in that manner.
Ball caps, sports team shirts, white tennis shoes and socks, worn Levi’s, polo shirts, American logos, and backpacks stuffed with paperwork and jewellery are all styles you may want to ditch while traveling internationally.
Below are some of the most flattering and comfortable dresses for vacation in EUROPE
Before you travel to Europe, make sure you don’t overlook these three vital considerations:
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In addition to the standard coverage, they take care of things like flight delays and cancellations, unexpected medical expenses, and misplaced luggage (as per the policy type selected).
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If you are not keen to drive in Europe, , you can use the OMIO.com website to purchase train tickets between the city and for day trips.
The OMIO website also allows you to book train tickets between the cities and other destinations. It is quite simple, and it is in the English language.
Visit my Travel Gear and Resources Page to see what I think are the best travel tools and services that can help you plan your trip.
I hope you find this information useful.
European Style of dressing
First-time visitors to Europe may be taken aback by a number of things, one of which is the fashion prevalent across the continent. It’s hard to find a poorly dressed European in Europe.
As a whole, North Americans prioritise convenience over fashion, whereas Europeans place much greater importance on their appearance.
While there isn’t a hard-and-fast rule about what to wear, Europeans often prioritize style over practicality.
Despite the city’s reputation for casual dress, few Parisians would be seen dead in an ill-fitting or ugly outfit.
When compared to other regions of the world, clothing in Europe is notoriously more expensive.
Not only that, but the quality is superb. Despite European women’s comparatively limited wardrobes, the clothes they do own are of high quality and have a flattering cut.
Dressing Like a Native of Europe
The focus of this post is on the styles popular in major European cities like Paris, London, Venice, Rome, Amsterdam, etc., and I feel the need to make that point plain right away.
Smaller communities and vacation areas, as well as rural areas, will allow you to fit in more easily with the inhabitants.
Depending on where in Europe you’re headed, your packing list may change. What you bring on a short trip to Zermatt will be different than what you bring on a three-day trip to Paris.
You may avoid standing out as a tourist by following the advice in this guide, which will tell you what to wear and what to leave at home.
European Attire for Women
You should be aware that people in Europe will form strong impressions of you based on how you look and will treat you appropriately.
Hotel staff and wait staff will be the people with whom you have the most direct personal interaction as a tourist.
You need to dress the part if you want a decent table and good service. It’s not impossible to strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics.
What are the Must have summer travel Outfits for women Travelling to Europe in 2023
Consider these nine trendy and comfy outfit choices that will not make you look like a normal tourist while travelling around Europe in the summer:
Dresses & Skirts
Choose a lightweight midi or maxi dress in a subtle print or solid colour for a casual chic look. For an easy, trendy appearance, pair it with flat sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Trousers & Blouse
Linen trousers and blouse: Wear a pair of relaxed linen trousers with a breezy blouse or linen shirt. Finish the look with a pair of comfortable loafers or flat sandals and a bold necklace.
Shirts & Croptop
High-waisted shorts and crop top: Choose a pair of neutral high-waisted shorts and combine them with a trendy crop top. Finish with white shoes or espadrilles and a lightweight blazer or kimono for a hint of sophistication.
Flowy skirt & Fitted top
Flowy skirt with fitted top: Pair a flowing midi or maxi skirt with a fitted blouse tucked in. Add a bold belt, flat sandals, and a crossbody purse to complete the look.
Culottes and a shirt tucked in
Culottes and a shirt tucked in: Culottes look great with a tucked-in blouse or a lightweight sweater. Add a pair of comfortable shoes or flat sandals to complete the appearance.
Jumpsuit Or Romper
Choose a lightweight jumpsuit or romper in a solid colour or a subtle pattern. Throw on a denim jacket or lightweight cardigan and finish with flat sandals or espadrilles.
Tapered pants with a silk or satin camisole:
Lightweight tapered pants with a silk or satin camisole: Wear lightweight, tapered pants with a silk or satin camisole. Finish the look with a lightweight blazer or cardigan and loafers or ballet flats.
Wide-leg trousers and a fitted top
Wide-leg trousers and a fitted top: Choose a pair of neutral wide-leg trousers and pair them with a fitted top. Accessorize with a bold belt, sunglasses, and comfy sandals.
Jeans, Top & pair of Boots
White jeans with a striped shirt: Wear a pair of white jeans or cropped pants with a classic striped top. To finish the look, add a lightweight scarf and comfortable sneakers or ballet flats.
These outfit suggestions will help you look stylish and blend in with the locals while remaining comfortable during your summer travels in Europe. Pack adaptable pieces that can be easily mixed and matched for a variety of outfit combinations.
Comfortable shoes
A pair of Heels for dinner
When looking for a pair of heels to wear to dinner during your time in Europe, you should put comfort, versatility, and fashion at the top of your list of priorities. The following are some recommendations for heels that are both stylish and comfy and would be appropriate for dinner outings:
- Bock Heels When compared to stilettos, heels with a block give increased stability and support for the wearer. Choose a heel with a height between one and three inches to ensure that you will be comfortable whether you are walking or standing. Fashion houses such as Clarks, Sam Edelman, and Naturalizer are known for producing block heels that are both fashionable and comfortable.
- Kitten heels- are a stylish and more comfortable alternative to traditional high heels. They are excellent for elevating the look of an outfit without compromising the wearer’s comfort. When looking for fashionable options in kitten heels, consider labels such as Cole Haan, Calvin Klein, and Anne Klein.
- Heels with an ankle strap : Heels with an ankle strap secure the shoe to the foot, which adds an additional layer of support. For maximum cosiness, choose for a pair of shoes that have a heel that is low to medium height and a cushioned insole. Companies like Steve Madden, Nine West, and Michael Kors provide exquisite ankle strap heels.
- Wedge Heels: In comparison to regular heels, heels with a wedge disperse your weight more equally, which results in increased comfort and stability. Because they are so versatile and look good with a wide variety of clothes, espadrille wedges are particularly popular for summertime vacation in Europe. While looking for fashionable and comfy wedge heels, look for brands such as Castaer, Soludos, and Clarks.
- Slingback heels: provide additional support and a sophisticated look, all while being simple to put on and take off. For optimal ease of wear, choose heels with a height between low and medium, and make sure they have a cushioned insole. There is a wide variety of slingback heel alternatives available from brands including as Vince Camuto, Franco Sarto, and Schutz.
While looking for a pair of heels to wear to dinner on your travels in Europe, you should give some thought to selecting a pair in a neutral, metallic, or black colour because these hues are easy to match with a variety of different outfits. When you go on your trip, make sure to “break in” your heels so that you may wear them for longer periods of time without experiencing discomfort.
Scarfs and accessories
Scarves and accessories can elevate your outfits and add a touch of European flair to your travel wardrobe.
A Nice Bag (preferably not cross-body)-Don’t bring a messenger/cross-body bag to Europe! No one carries them there, except the American tourists
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Dresses & Skirts
Europeans are known to dress up more for meals and important occasions than their American counterparts.
That being said, if you’re invited out to dinner, don’t show up in your PJs, sweats, or a T-shirt. They are NOT on-trend in the European continent.
Another piece of advice: leave the gym gear at home. A lot of people will look at you funny unless you’re genuinely exercising.
Consider picking up some items from the following retailers for fashionable European wear while putting together your packing list for what to wear in Europe:
STYLE IDEAS FOR These Dresses
Dress pants, short-sleeve and long-sleeve/Halter neck tops
There is no better piece of clothing to have in your summer wardrobe than a cool jumpsuit or dress pants.
It’s a complete outfit for when you don’t feel like putting any thought into your appearance. You can just toss one on and go.
You can find dress pants to wear in the sun in every color or pattern you can imagine. carefree.
If you want to stay warm in the evenings during the summer, wear a shawl, cardigan, or denim jacket over your dress. Wearing a belted blazer is another option for achieving a more put-together look.
You need a pair of strappy shoes to finish off the look. Go for ankle-strap high heels, a shoe closet essential this season.
They are wonderful for summer since they allow you to display your new pedicure.
DESSY COLLECTION |NORDSTROM
STYLE IDEAS FOR These Dressy pants/Jumpsuit
Comfortable shoes for daily walks
hen travelling in Europe, it is essential to wear shoes that are comfortable because you will most likely spend a lot of time walking around and visiting the continent. The following are some suggestions on shoes that will make your trips in Europe more comfortable:
- Walking sneakers: A pair of walking sneakers that is not just supportive but also has a decent arch support and plenty of cushioning is an excellent choice. Look for alternatives that are not just lightweight but also breathable and easy to put on and take off. Walking shoes that are both fashionable and comfortable can be found from companies such as New Balance, ASICS, and Adidas.
- Slip-on sneakers Not only are slip-on sneakers comfy, but they are also simple to put on and take off. This makes them an excellent choice for travelling through airport security checkpoints because of their ease of use. Vans, TOMS, and Skechers are three well-known examples of popular brands of slip-on sneakers.
- flat ballet shoes: a pair of ballet flats, which are often very comfortable, can be both fashionable and useful for wandering around a city. To maximise your comfort, look for shoes with cushioned insoles and flexible soles. Ballet flats can be found from a variety of manufacturers, including Tieks, Rothy’s, and Cole Haan, among others.
- Slip-on shoes, often known as loafers, are a stylish and more comfortable alternative to sneakers. If you want the most comfortable shoes possible, go for loafers with padded insoles and arches that are supported. The footwear brands Clarks, Ecco, and Sam Edelman are well-known for the cosiness of their loafers.
- Ankle boots: If you want a little more coverage or require shoes for weather that’s a little bit chillier, you should think about getting a pair of ankle boots that are comfy and have a low or flat heel. Look for boots that have insoles that are padded and provide decent arch support. Ankle boots that are both comfortable and fashionable can be found from manufacturers such as Dr. Martens, Blundstone, and Timberland.
- Sandals with arch support: when the temperature is warmer, a pair of sandals with arch support is a great option to have. When shopping for sandals, look for a pair that has a cushioned sole, arch support, and straps that can be adjusted for a snug fit. Sandal alternatives that are both comfortable and supportive can be found from Birkenstock, Teva, and Keen.
- Espadrilles: Espadrilles that have cushioned insoles and flexible soles can be an alternative for summer travel footwear that is both comfortable and fashionable. There is a wide selection of espadrille styles available from manufacturers such as Soludos and Castaer.
While purchasing shoes for your trip around Europe, make sure to put comfort, support, and versatility at the top of your list. It is critical to give your shoes some wear in advance of your trip in order to ensure that they will be comfortable for long amounts of time spent walking.
The versatility of denim shorts makes them a summer staple. They’re as versatile as your favourite pair of jeans and go with practically everything.
These shorts paired with a button-down shirt will give you a stylish, contemporary style. Put on a shirt that is one size larger than you normally would so that you can tie a knot at the bottom.
Complete the getup with a pair of sneakers, and we suggest Nike’s new Air 1 for the summer. The outfit’s adaptability is its greatest strength.
Swap out your sneakers for some heeled sandals or boots if you’re looking to amp up your style.
A pair of Heels for dinner Night
Jeans, Top & pair of Boots
During the warmer months, a lot of bars tend to get busy.
To join in with the party atmosphere when going out with friends, you should dress in an attire that is both enjoyable and noticeable.
The mini skirt is a great summertime garment for this purpose. If worn with an off-the-shoulder top, it strikes the perfect balance between sultry and laid-back.
STYLE IDEAS FOR These Denim pants
Scarfs and accessories
Have you made any plans to spend some time relaxing on the beach this summer? In that case, you should pair your swimmers with a kimono.
In addition to looking great, it protects you from the sun while you relax by the water. The kimono’s wrap style also makes it convenient to throw on over a bathing suit for added modesty.
Scarves and accessories can elevate your outfits and add a touch of European flair to your travel wardrobe.
Here are some suggestions for versatile scarves and accessories to consider for your Europe tour:
- Lightweight scarves: A lightweight scarf in a neutral color or a subtle pattern can be a versatile accessory that adds style to your outfits while providing some warmth on cooler evenings. Linen, cotton, or silk scarves are ideal choices for summer travel.
- Pashmina or shawl: A pashmina or shawl can serve as a blanket during flights or as an additional layer when the temperature drops. Look for a soft, lightweight fabric in a color that complements your wardrobe.
- Statement jewelry: Bring a few pieces of statement jewelry, such as a bold necklace, earrings, or bracelet, to dress up your outfits for evenings or special occasions. Opt for pieces that can be easily mixed and matched with different outfits.
- Sunglasses: A stylish pair of sunglasses not only protects your eyes from the sun but also adds a fashionable touch to your look. Opt for a classic frame shape like aviators, wayfarers, or cat-eye sunglasses to complement various outfits.
- Hats: A wide-brimmed hat or a fedora can protect your face from the sun while adding a chic touch to your summer outfits. Choose a neutral color like beige, tan, or black that can be easily paired with different outfits.
- Crossbody bag: A crossbody bag in a neutral color is a practical and stylish accessory for European travel. It keeps your hands free while providing easy access to your essentials, and it’s more secure than a shoulder bag.
- Belts: A statement belt or a simple leather belt can help you cinch your waist or add some interest to your outfits. Choose a belt in a neutral color that can be paired with multiple clothing items.
- Compact umbrella: A small, lightweight umbrella can be a useful accessory in case of unexpected rain. Choose one in a fun print or color to brighten up gloomy days.
When packing scarves and accessories for your Europe tour, focus on versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched with your wardrobe. Remember that less is often more – a few well-chosen accessories can make a significant impact on your overall look.
Nice Bags
While looking for a bag to take with you on your trip to Europe, take into consideration the following criteria: size, utility, safety, and style.
The following are some suggestions for a nice travel bag that satisfies the aforementioned criteria:
Cross body bags: When travelling through European cities, a crossbody bag is an excellent choice for achieving hands-free convenience.
Get a bag with a medium-sized capacity that has a number of different compartments and zippers that lock to ensure the safety of your possessions.
Baggallini, Travelon, and Fjallraven are just a few of the brands that provide fashionable and practical crossbody bags.
Anti-theft bag: A locking zipper, RFID-blocking fabrics, and slash-resistant straps are some of the characteristics that are included in the design of an anti-theft bag. T
hese elements are included to safeguard your goods from the possibility of being stolen. There is a wide selection of anti-theft bags available on the market from a number of different manufacturers, including Pacsafe and Travelon.
Backpack: If you want an alternative that is both practical and pleasant to carry your things while travelling throughout Europe, a backpack that is both fashionable and lightweight, with various compartments and padded straps, is a good choice.
Look for a backpack that has a reliable locking mechanism, such as a roll-top or zippers that can be locked. Backpacking alternatives that are both fashionable and practical may be found from companies such as Herschel, Fjallraven, and Patagonia.
Tote bag: A tote bag is a very adaptable bag that may be used for a variety of purposes, including shopping and sight seeing.
Choose a tote that has a zipped closure to ensure the security of your stuff, as well as a separate pocket for your wallet, water bottle, and any other necessities you need to carry.
Totes that are both fashionable and practical may be found from brands such as Longchamp, Everlane, and Dagne Dover.
Convertible bag: A convertible bag can easily transition from a backpack to a shoulder bag or crossbody, offering you flexibility in how you carry your belongings. Look for a bag with adjustable straps, secure closures, and multiple compartments for organization. Brands like Lo & Sons, Timbuk2, and Knomo offer versatile convertible bags.
When picking out a bag for your trip to Europe, you should give some thought to selecting one in a neutral colour such as black, grey, or tan so that it will be easy to match with the outfits you pack.
Be sure that the bag can be carried for long periods of time without becoming uncomfortable and that it has sufficient capacity for you to fit all of your things, such as your phone, wallet, passport, and a small water bottle.
Summer Europe Travel Outfit Ideas
Selecting items that are both stylish and functional is the key to a winning summer wardrobe.
Keep in mind that you can never go wrong with a wardrobe heavy on short cuts, flowy fabrics, and bold colours.
If you wear any of the aforementioned ensembles, you’ll look like a summer goddess no matter where you go.
Now that you have your summer wardrobe sorted, go over to Wander for recommendations on where to go and what to do this season.
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About the Author: Div Acharya
Div is an entrepreneur, influencer, blogger, marketer, & fashionista. Div loves Blogging about Lifestyle, Fashion, Style, Travel, Gift Ideas, Home decor Finds and house-buying tips and hacks from her own experience. Hence, Div wants to share her joy and interests with as many people as she can.