{2024} 8+ Easy Tips to Dress Like a Local in Europe

Wondering what to wear on your trip to Europe? Your favorite European travel guide has compiled her top tips to help you dress like a local 'across the pond.' So let's dive right in - how to dress like a local in Europe!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. If you purchase a linked item, I will make a commission, at no extra charge to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Wondering how to dress in Europe? Want to fit in with those sophisticated, European locals?

Looking like an "American tourist" in Europe comes with a lot of baggage (pun intended). While I personally find that you get what you give when you visit Europe, one way to start off on the right foot is to wear the right clothes and fit in visually. And that's why we're here to talk about clothes!  Wearing appropriate attire is the best way to fit right in from the minute you touch down in Europe. I've written for years with my tips for packing for Europe, including travel essentials, packing hacks, and what to wear in specific cities.


But before we get into how to dress in Europe, I'd like to give a quick reminder that an even better way to fit in in Europe is to learn some very basic European manners. Learn how to say a few basic words, read a few blog posts on basic customs, and always remember that you're not at home. Try to go with the flow to the extent possible, try local foods, and don't be pushy. Always say 'hello' in the native language before you ask someone if they speak English.


As far as clothes go, just a note that I'm gearing this post toward slightly older women. I'm 35, so comfortable in my mom era. Most Americans reading my posts about what to wear in Europe are first or second time tourists, often traveling with family. I do think young people will find these tips helpful, if they have concerns about fitting in 'across the pond,' and many tips on European fashion will apply across the board.


Thanks again for being here. I'm so honored to help you pack for your trip to Europe. And while you're here, I hope you'll sign up for the newsletter, and explore the many, many other free resources I've created to help you plan the perfect trip to Europe:

• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for 10 Days in Europe
• What to Wear on a Long Haul Flight to Europe
• 6+ Easy Tips for Surviving a Long Haul Flight to Europe
• The Practical Guide to Looking Perfect in Paris

8+ Easy Tips to Dress Like a Local in Europe

Neutral Colors & Clean Lines

While this isn't good for the ad revenue of my blog, I'll say it: If you only take one tip away from this article, make it this first one: dress in an understated neutral color palette with clean lines.

Leave the bright colors and crazy florals at home. The easiest tip to capturing European style is to keep it simple and clean. No frills, no ruffles, no sequins. Just nice quality, well-cut, structured timeless pieces in a dark color.

​I always feel like French women look like they're about to go out for a fairly formal work lunch, even when they're running to grab groceries. Easier said than done, maybe, but keep this in mind while you're packing.

No logos

With the exception of a small emblem on polo shirts, avoid overt logos. Europeans generally don't wear them. While there was a big phase of younger Europeans wearing Levi's emblazoned t-shirts (I got a huge kick out of this in 2018), Europeans of the age of most readers of my blog wouldn't be caught dead covered in a bunch of logos.

​If tastefully done, I'll make an exception for luxury items, but again, keep it minimal. Please don't show up in Paris head-to-toe in Louis Vuitton logos or even in Rome head-to-toe in Gucci. You'll really stand out (and, frankly, make yourself a target for those who pester tourists).

Always add a jacket

It simply isn't as hot in Europe as it is in much of the United States, so Europeans are much more likely to wear a jacket, trench coat, leather jackets, topper, or structured cardigan over an outfit. It's not only practical but also more stylish than just wearing a shirt and pants. This really surprised me on my first time in Europe - without a jacket, I felt underdressed, unfinished, and slovenly. Even in late August in the UK, where we were, I often wore a jacket throughout our day of tourism.

FAQ: Do I need my winter coat for my trip to Europe?

Depending on the time of year, it's unlikely you'll need your winter coat for your trip, unless you're taking a Christmas trip to Northern Europe. I've hauled my winter coat across the Atlantic Ocean twice for late fall and early spring trips to France/UK and not put it on once.

'Finish the outfit'

And on that note, assuming I've sufficiently driven home my "tone down your colors and logos" argument, my next tip is one that I am lifting from my time working as a salesperson at Nordstrom before law school. When working, because we didn't wear uniforms or name tags, we were instructed to "finish your outfit," so that shoppers knew we were Nordstrom salespeople, not fellow shoppers. 

Ok...How do you finish your outfit? 

Add a belt, scarf, necklace, hat, or jacket (not necessarily all of the above). Just put in a little more effort to make it an ensemble.

No athleisure

     While the athleisure wear craze is definitely 'here to stay' in the US, the same cannot be said for European countries. Unless you are actively on your way to the gym or currently exercising, please do not wear workout clothes to go about your business in Europe. You will stand out like a sore thumb. What do I mean? As much as it breaks my heart to say so: no baseball caps for ladies (or men, really), no black leggings as pants, absolutely no sports bras as shirts under a jacket with your stomach exposed (le gasp), and no brightly colored sneakers with logos.

FAQ: Can I wear sneakers in Europe?

Yes! While Europeans have not embraced athleisure, it is OK to wear sneakers in Europe, even without looking like a tourist, under certain conditions.

​Your sneakers should be relatively sleek and low profile (no chunky, 80's dad sneakers), clean, newer, and neutrally colored. Think of sneakers you'd wear here in the states out to dinner, or even to work. It's certainly good news for us, as comfortable walking shoes are the single most important item you'll pack for your time in Europe.

Perfect your pant selection for Europe

FAQ: Can I wear jeans in Europe? 

Yes, you can definitely wear jeans in Europe, under certain conditions: I'd tend toward dark jeans. Avoid acid wash. Make sure your jeans are in good conditions, without holes in the knees or overly frayed cuffs. As far as style and cut, keep it traditional. A wider leg is fine, as skinny jeans have gone out of style largely in Europe as in the US. Be sure to bring some non-denim pants on your trip as well. You will encounter dress codes at some high-end theaters and restaurants.

FAQ: ​Can I wear white pants in Europe?

You can wear white pants in Europe, but I wouldn't recommend it, for a few reasons. As we've discussed, European women tend toward darker colors than their American counterparts. Additionally, white pants are impractical for long travel and tourism days spent on public transit and doing lots of walking. For style and practicality, it's a good idea to stay away from white pants when exploring Europe.

No short shorts

While we're on the subject of "pants" (don't forget: the Brits call underwear "pants" and pants "trousers" so hilarity can easily ensue...), nothing makes you stand out more as an American tourist in Europe than revealing shorts. European women do wear shorts in warm weather, but they're more chino, classic, longer, traditional shorts than what a lot of us (myself included) wear in the States. NO BIKE SHORTS. No workout shorts. No torn jean shorts. No "booty shorts," I beseech you. And my strictures against shorts are not only to help you fit in, but also for a practical reason.
​

Religious sites, particularly in Southern Europe and Catholic countries, often have dress codes requiring some amount of modesty. They often ban short shorts, tank tops, etc. As a large part of exploring Europe is popping into random churches to look around, I'd hate for you to miss out on opportunities because of skimpy shorts.

Won't I be hot walking around all day in long pants?

No. You'll be fine. The reality is, it's not that hot in Europe, even if you're planning summer travel. And it's definitely not as humid as the swamps in which I've lived (hello Indianapolis and coastal Virginia). If you're worried about being hot, wear a skirt or dress.

No backpacks, please

As a mom of a toddler, I completely understand the desire of a lot of people to travel with all of your worldly possessions. That said, most of my readers are not traveling to Europe with toddlers. So, I'd encourage you to leave the backpack at your hotel (gasp!). 


You can probably get through your travel day with significantly fewer possessions on your person than you imagine. Pack a small, or even smaller, purse than you would to run errands at home. Bring only the essentials. 


Not only is a small, crossbody purse easier to carry, but it'll also save you time checking your backpack at museums that don't allow large bags to protect their charges. Ironically a "fanny pack" worn crossbody is now acceptable, even in Europe. When I started this blog, typing those words would have been unimaginable.


I would suggest a leather crossbody bag, such as this Longchamp bag from Nordstrom.

Thanks for Stopping By!

I hope I've given you some food for thought on how to dress in Europe, as you pack for your trip. I love nothing more than helping Americans prepare for trips 'across the pond.' While you're here, I hope you'll explore the many, many free resources I've created about traveling to Europe, including a free, downloadable Europe packing list. Bon voyage!

• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for 10 Days in Europe
• What to Wear on a Long Haul Flight to Europe
• 6+ Easy Tips for Surviving a Long Haul Flight to Europe
• The Practical Guide to Looking Perfect in Paris​

Europe Travel Essentials

Love it? Pin it!