The White Shoe Thing

Thank you, Jo!!!!!!!!

I used to wear white shoes on our trips. They were what I wore at home. When I got tired of them turning beige, I realized that black was a better choice. Also most of my wardrobe (home and travel) is centered around black as a base color. It just makes more sense for me. I have always wondered about this "white shoe" concern too!

Jo,

thank you , thank you, thank you !

My white jogging shoes are my most comfortable and I will admit some trepidation about taking them next month to Italy.....you have eased my mind! : )

Lorraine

May I just add my appreciation for your comments to the chorus of "thank you Jo". I have worn white shoes in Europe and found it to be a "non issue". Of course, I don't mind if people know I am an American (I am) and if I am not "mistaken" for a local (I'm not) I have never really understood that whole thing either (I want people to think I am German, Italian, etc) Of course, I love interacting with people from other countries here at home, and I think people have always been extra friendly to us because they "know" we aren't from "around here". I have been approached numerous times by people asking where we are from. This has led to some good conversations, and in some cases, a shared meal or drink.

Thanks JO, I don't get the white shoe thing either. I saw plenty of locals in Italy in white shoes and have worn them myself. We've always been treated wonderfully. I wonder if it's some urban legend?

The white shoe thing may vary by country. My wife (Belgian) makes fun of me when I wear them in Europe, telling me that only Americans wear white jogging shoes when not actually jogging... to which I cheerfully reply, "And what am I?" But I agree with all above, wear what you want and what you find comfortable. Ignore the fashionistas! As Oscar Wilde wrote: "Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months."

I've never been to Germany, but the only white shoes I've seen in Italy were at a 10K run or on a frumpy American tourist. When you do see them, oh, man! they stand out like a sore thumb! (That's not a compliment.)

This observation from someone whose feet were exclusively shod in Nike and K-Swiss for decades. Cringe. Like your son, I thought this was hip and stylish. Yet, I found myself cringing whenever I saw white running shoes in Italy. I wasn't even looking, but they were so noticably awful and dorky. I was so traumatized I only wear Eccos now. (kidding..)

Anyway, it's a matter of juxtaposition and comparison. What fades into the background in the US--and apparently in Frankfurt--can look so out of place when surrounded by stylish Italians it's hard to miss. There is a difference between having individual style, being an tourist, and being a caricature. Clean, well-fitting American clothes can be unique and stylish and yes, give you away as a tourist. That's OK. White shoes are self-parody. In my opinion there is a difference.

So, Europe is a big place, but depending on where you're going "Don't wear white shoes" may be good advice. Not because they "give you away" but because they look awful out of their natural habitat. It's not the end of the world if you want to look frumpy, but some people don't want to look dorky every day of their vacation. That's all.

What I don't understand is this fixation on whether or not we will "be given away." Dressing well, feeling good about yourself, and not embarrassing yourself is not a disguise. It's not a trick to fool people. Think about why do you dress nicely to go out to dinner if you don't understand.

Even in the nicest parts of the nicest cities in Italy, I don't remember seeing people wearing white sneakers. I remember groups of Germans and Japanese tourists too obnoxious to even make a space to get by on the sidewalk, I remember American families talking loudly and thinking if they spoke English louder, the local might understand better, or the American who complained about his pizza not being like "home" and the list goes on and on.I think with footwear, perhaps more than any other thing, comfort is the most important concern. If you have a choice of white or black shoes, sure, go with the black, but if you're going and you have this one pair of white shoes that is so well worn in that you know your feet will be able to handle the extreme amount of walking, no one should even think twice about wearing the white shoes. And even if they do make you stick out like a sore thumb, at least you'll be comfortable. I agree with Jo, it is not the shoes a person wears that gives them away at all. That was my personal experience from Portugal to Belgium to Denmark to Italy and several other countries in between. They ALL knew I was american before I opened my mouth, black shoes, black pants, no backpack, and all.

I totally agree with Linda's comments above. Thank you for stating this so well!
I have traveled only to large European cities - Paris, London, Rome, Venice, etc. and I have seen very few local women wearing white, jogging style shoes. Perhaps no one notices or cares what you are wearing wherever you are, but it seems to me there is an appropriate way to dress, even if you are on vacation. Kids can get away with the white jogging shoes, jeans and t-shirts in the sophisticated cities -- but adults will look dorky. I work at a major airport and believe me I see people dressed really badly, in unbelievably casual and sloppy attire getting on and off planes. And, don't even get me started on all the men wearing shorts!

I responded to an issue like this some time ago. My point was that European destinations are jammed with tourists wearing umbrellas on their heads, white knee socks, ugly shirts and canvas shoes.

No one. Absolutely no one. Cares...what...you... wear!

Well said, Doug. I think we all over-estimate the amount of thought that others apply to us.

I saw plenty of locals wearing white shoes in Germany, Norway, Belgium, and I have never felt uncomfortable wearing them. They do not have to look sloppy. I only ever heard that issue on this forum, and shortly after I saw it was an issue here, my German friend sent me her vacations pictures, and I noticed her whole family was wearing white shoes (and she is much more fashionable than me.) Even if it was an issue, I really haven't cared if people thought my clothes were dorky since I was about 17.

Hi Jo

I've also asked my friends who live in Germany and they never heard of this either. Thought is was a crazy thought all together.

Seems like we all agree that you wear what you want, wear what you need for comfort, and nobody should really care what others think about what you wear, and frankly, they obviously don't care.

While I was in Wales a few years back, the tour guide was talking about how he could tell who was an American and who wasn't. The White shoe comment came up. He said it never failed, that Americans always wore white jogging shoes.

We made the same assumption while on our last visit to Ireland (that white-shoe wearers were all American), but when we got nearer to each couple they were all either Irish or British.

"The White shoe comment came up. He said it never failed, that Americans always wore white jogging shoes." Ah, so all the people wearing white shoes were American... but do all Americans wear white shoes?

Forget about white shoes! There is another fashion trend even more disturbing, and it must be stopped! That trend is couples dressing alike in identical outfits...what's up with that? Was there a buy-one get-one free sale at LL Bean or something? To be fair I' have no idea if these couples are American, or from another land...whenever I spot this "anti-fashion" I run in the other direction as fast as I can, as if they're zombies. Can't something be done about this? IMO immigration officials should be empowered to stop these couples from crossing borders. Customs officers should be required to check all luggage for matching outfits..forget about drugs, salami and WMDs! The Schengen Treaty should be canceled and all border checks between European countries reopened to stop this crime against humanity! Won't you join me in my crusade? Write your Congressman today!

Do you think there is this type of travel forum in India where the women discuss if they should wear saris or not? I guess I have always wondered.

Michael - Does this mean I can't wear my shirt that says "I'm with him" and my husband wears the "I'm with her"? Darn it, now I have gone and wasted my money.

Hmmm. You know, I just don't understand some of this discussion. What does having a southern accent or not being able to hide the fact that you're American have to do with being appropriate? I find it so curious that people think that's what we're talking about. Is there no other reason to pay attention to dress? Really?

Would you wear a faded jogging suit to your sister's wedding? Would you wear goofy tee shirt from Spencer's gifts that says "I'd rather be golfing" to your mother's funeral? Would you wear bike shorts and a baseball cap to a dinner party at a five-star restaurant? Would you wear flip-flops to the White House? (Correct answer is No.)

OK, OK. Gotcha. These are VERY extreme examples; I know that. Yes, going to the White House for your photo op is very, very different from the topic at hand, which is traveling in Europe on vacation-- no need to point that out. I am using extreme examples to illustrate when people are giving helpful advice that you may use to shape your packing list they're talking about being APPROPRIATE-- not wearing some sort of disguise to "pull one over" on Europeans and hide your nationality.

Being appropriate does NOT mean you are trying to fool people or are ashamed of being American. It just means you are not oblivious. It also does not mean you are uncomfortable or overdressed. (Why do you have to be uncomfortable????)

Of course, by definition what is appropriate varies greatly according to circumstance. That's why judgement is involved. That's why it's different from one place to another. With that said, why sure, go ahead and wear white shoes if you want. Clearly it is most appropriate, dare we say fashionable?, in Germany-- along with white knee socks and sandals--or so I divined from this board. (Just kidding Jo..I really don't know)

But, I'm awfully glad I didn't dress that way in Italy. But, heck, looking dorky is not the end of the world. If it was I would have used my nine lives many times.

I've always heard the white shoe thing, too. Whether or not it's true that only Americans wear white sneakers or not, and whether it's true or not that they make us look frumpy and dorky - why is it so important to not look like American? Do people in Europe hate all that is American? I certainly don't think we are perfect, but are we really that bad that we should try at all costs to disquise ourselves as Europeans.

I took great pains to purchase very stylish and strappy walking sandals for my upcoming trip to Europe (including Paris) because I personally am not a big sneaker person at home. I think they make me look frumpy! I think others look nice and sporty in them, I'm just not one of them. But I am curious about the whole "scared to be identified as an American" thing. I agree it's much more important how you behave than how you dress. And unless you are an obnoxious person at home, you probably won't have a problem (ha ha).

Kerry, it is Americans who think they should try and "blend in", and not the people who live in Europe. They certainly don't hate us! Where did you get that idea? Many Americans think they will get better service, or lower prices if they can pass themselves off as locals.

Then there is the group of people who simply dress badly, and believe me, there are just as many bad dressers in the UK, Germany, France, Spain or Italy as there are in the states. I know, I see them in downtown Frankfurt every day. The US does not have the corner on bad fashion sense! It is just because as an American, you tend to notice the things that may be common in America and not see the things that look bad in other countries "fashion challenged" populace. Have you never seen British men with white hankies on their heads, or German men wearing little shorts and black socks and sandals, or Italian men with speedos on and these are the ones who should NOT be wearing something like this. It looks like I am picking on the men here, but the ladies in these other countries make huge fashion mistakes too. Nothing like seeing a grandma with purple henna hair, a nice eyebrow and nose piercing, and a tribal tattoo on her upper arms, wearing fringe boots and a mini. Yes, some cities are known for their stylish fashions, but not everyone dresses like this.

So, once again, just relax, be polite, wear what you think is proper, learn a few phrases in the language if you can and be a walking ambassador for your country as that in itself is the best thing we can do.

My problem with white tennis shoes isn't about comfort or whether you look American, it's whether you look and feel like an idiot when you go to a nice restaurant or a show. I have pairs of white running shoes and white basketball shoes in my closet but they don't make the packing list.

I pack light so everything that's packed has to be able to perform multiple functions. White tennis shoes are fine for some functions, such as walking around town or in museums during the day. White shoes are not fine for other functions, such as hiking on trails or dressing up. It's better to pack a pair of trail runners that can do more, as comfortably, for the same weight and space.

Micheal,

In Spokane, couples dressing alike is how we spotted the Canadian tourists. LOL

My daughter told me, while studying in France last year, that she was the only one who would show up at the gym in "gym clothes". The European students would walk to the gym, dressed in their street clothes - including regular, usually DARK shoes - and then change in order to play basketball, workout, etc. She was also very out of the norm by jogging around the city streets. She never could figure out where runners would run in order to practice for races.

In France, at least, the idea seemed to be wear what is appropriate for the situation. So if you are IN the gym, then wear gym shoes. If you are out in the country, hiking, wear hiking clothes. But if you are walking around the city, they wear "city clothes". And I agree, it does seem to vary country to country - Europe is not one homogeneous culture. German tourists also stand out in some European cities.

Bottom line, some people really don't care how others perceive them as long as they are neat and clean - so go ahead, wear your comfortable clothes & shoes. But others DO want, for a variety of reasons, to make an attempt to be a little less obvious a tourist or a little more stylish in general. For those people, the "fashion tips" are helpful.

Jo

I don't know whether it's advisable to ask Germans their opinion on what kind of footwear is stylish - they are after all the proud inventors of the "knee-high white socks with sandals" look that makes them so recognisable in Mediterranean resorts throughout the summer holidays.

Michael Schneider, Since I am 152% sure you are speaking tongue-in-cheek, these comments are not to condemn your comments.

When my sisters an I were young Mom would make all of us (including her and Dad) matching shirts every year. When we are out and about together as a family we were likely to wear them.

This could be helpful if someone (particularly a child) got separated from the others. Might even help if child was kidnapped and others remembered that s/he was with a family with the same shirt.

My grandmother (Mom's mom) would make herself a dress and Grandpa a shirt that match that they often wore at the some time. I'm not sure about the every year part I I saw them were different matchings enough to think she did.

My parents often wear matching t-shirts. They have been married almost 60 years.

A few years ago, I mentioned that if the most comfortable shoes for you were white (only came that way) and you didn't want to wear white you could take them to a she repair place and have them dyed. There is a men's hunting boot that comes in a wonderful deep green that I like but doesn't come in women's sizes. I would need to dye my walking shoes that color.

Anyway, we're in good company as regards to this issue. Larry David has pondered the importance of sneaker colour. In season 2 he muses to his psychotherapist: "So I'm really happy with my new sneakers. You know, 'cause they're gray. And, if you think about it's a good color, 'cause white is really too bright and black is like a pair of shoes. And gray is kind of like right in the middle. They look good. "

The first I knew about "white shoe syndrome" came from a RS book. Perhaps Rick started it! It is like growing up in the Midwest and you only wear white shoes from Easter to Labor Day! :D

I have worn white NB in Europe but actually prefer my grey NB because they don't get as dirty and they look better with black pants. However, I am of the school wear what is comfortable and easiest for you to pack.

I do notice what people wear because I'm a people watcher. I get a kick out of socks. It seems Americans wear white socks (except old men in shorts and sandals and black socks -- just kidding). I see more colored socks in Europe and I am actually wearing more colored socks with capris (black, navy, red). Of course with the Birkenstock culture, socks are the thing. The livelier the better. I always buy socks as souvenirs on my trips --- sheep from the UK, White Highleand terriers from Scotland, edelweiss from Switzerland, etc/ I enjoy my trips through my feet.

Thanks Jo for letting us know it is okay and Rick is just a man with a nan's opinion. ;-)

Tom, Since I hate solid white jogging shoes then the answer to your statement is NO! I refuse to purchase all white jogging shoes. This guy had his mind made up what a sterotypical American tourist looked like and we all looked a like to him.

For me, I can attempt to dress and blend in all I want to. But the minute I open my mouth, it's over. As I have the most Southern accent you will ever find. It's a dead give away.

I check to see if there is any special requirements(like for churches and such), if not then I wear what is comfortable for me. I am not going to impress anyone.

Jo,

I don't think Europeans hate us; it just seems so important to so many that they not look American in Europe, I wondered why. I agree, I'm certain not all Parisians are fashion savvy, just like all New Yorker's aren't either. I personally have an excellent sense of style. In my opinion of course! (ha ha)

"I personally have an excellent sense of style. In my opinion of course!" That's what I keep telling my wife, and for some reason, she keeps rolling her eyes ;)

I think Linda makes some good points. Often, it matters very much how we are dressed. Walking into a restaurant in Paris, for example, wearing tennis shoes and shorts is disrespectful (just as it would be if you wore that outfit to a wedding, or heck, it would be if you wore that to a nice American restaurant).

I've heard so many stories about people getting a cold shoulder in Paris from restaurant a maitre'd or waiter or shopkeeper and my first thought is always, I wonder how you were dressed. It's entirely possible you looked inappropriate and they wanted you out of there. In all my trips to France I've never--NEVER--had service anywhere that was anything less than very polite. And, I'm always dressed decently (always leather shoes, usually a skirt or dress).

Maybe the reason many Americans wear jogging shoes, in any colour, is to try to fool people into thinking they might actually jog. Are jogging shoes the same as trainers? What about canvas shoes that are obviously not jogging shoes? Do they fall into the same no no catagory? It's gotten very confusing. Anyroad, white shoes make your feet look big.

2 years ago while walking from the cathedral in Rovinj, Croatia a man ahead of me had on a Tshirt that said "F--K THE BABYSITTER" (no missing letters on HIS back!!) A while later I was in the same little shop as him and his female companion..hearing them in conversation I was pretty darn sure they were either Canadian or American, although I hoped they were neither! Can't think of a single place where that Tshirt would be appropriate...but maybe thats just me. After seeing that, I say if its white shoes that make you and your feet happy..go for it, who cares! Also my 100 year old Aunt still laughs about an overseas tour she was on many years ago that included 2 50ish sisters who always dressed in matching outfits.

"dorky" is an opinion. I am 52 and many young people dress differently than I do. However, "I am a live and let live "person and don't attach labels to them like "dorky". Your opinion is your opinion. I have met some wonderful people by looking past dress and appearance. For instance, the man striding around Copenhagen, Denmark in a kilt looked out of place and different from anyone else I saw that day...some might say "dorky". Yet he had a big smile on his face and was making friends as he strolled around the downtown area. If you don't want to wear white shoes...don't. But let others choose for themselves. I personally am too busy enjoying the experience to spend a lot of time judging how anybody is dressed.

Connie is a good person with good values and good common sense. It's wise not to get too wrapped up in appearances and judge people too superficially. But, folks, try to take the emotional charge off of the fact being appropriate is a value others hold. I enjoy understanding and experiencing those values because that's why I travel. I don't want to barge in with "I don't care what others think..I just wanna do my own thing and take pictures of the duomo." So, I guess you can say it doesn't matter, but I suggest you're missing someting about travel.

Anyway, when people suggest not wearing white shoes in Italy, they are only providing good advice based on different cultural values. Those values are not determined by us. (Nor by Frankfurters I guess! Jo's son and I must have had matching footwear in our past!) You may choose to balance that advice and take other factors into account. This is called using your judgement.

Haven't you ever gone somewhere, realize you didn't dress properly and feel a little self-conscious? Wouldn't it have been nice to known before-hand? Did you die? No it wasn't terrible. In fact, didn't it make a funny story later? But good advice would have been useful and well-received. Sometimes having "funny" stories about your own faux-pas gets old...

Our friends showed us some pictures from their trip to Italy last year. "Joe" was wearing bermuda shorts, white socks, and white shoes I have to admit, I'm not as nice as Connie, I tried not to laugh. But, his wife volunteered there was a group of older Italian ladies sitting on a bench in Assisi snickering and pointing at him. They were having a lot of fun at his expense...

Hey, look at the bright side, my friend didn't have to worry about Italian women taking any interest in her husband :->

So, wear what you like. But, remember there are other cultural touchstones besides ours.

Oh, yeah, why do people think this means being uncomfortable????

I have to respectfully disagree with Linda. If I tried to dress more European when visiting Europe I would have to go out and purchase an entire new wardrobe. On top of the trip cost I would not be able to afford it. I don't think most people would want to do that either.

I fully admit to not being stylish and not really able to afford to be stylish. I dress neatly and comfortably and I would do so on any trip whether it's Europe or Disney World. If some snooty French waiter didn't want me in his establishment then I would be happy to leave and give my hard-earned money to someone else. Of course I can't really afford that kind of restaurant anyway so it's a moot point.

"snooty french waiter"' Marcella, PLEASE,, let me assure you there are many places,, IN AMERICA where you would not be welcome unless you were dressed appropriately, stop with the French sterotyping you Americans love to do.

As for needing a whole new wardrobe,, really, I seriously doubt that, unless you are from Hawaii and only own flip flops and Aloha shirts.

My apologies for stereotyping the French. However, the way Linda is talking I would be turned away from ANY restaurant in my jeans, t-shirt and sneakers. Those are the types of clothes I own and the clothes I am comfortable in. I am not going to change that just for the sensibilities of people in Europe.

Oh, goodness. I must not be making myself clear and I suppose I should just drop it if I can't do a better job, but I said nothing about buying a new wardrobe. I said nothing about buying European fashion, a curious interpretation to be sure. Appropriateness is not a pre-determined uniform, it's about cultural values. (remember judgement...judgement...) I said nothing about being turned away from "expensive" restaurants. What on earth are you talking about? Just observing that different cultures have different values. That's why you travel (well unless all you wanna do just want to check the sights off your list). Ignore that as you wish.

Goodness gracious. I am so stunned. Where the heck did you get all that? We are so not having the same conversation.

Oh, I get it. Are you thinking this is about money and class distinction? About being "fancy"? You are confusing respect and appropriateness with putting on airs. That can be considered an attitude in itself. I would encourage people not to look at it that way. I find that experiencing different cultural values to be a delight and I would not encourage you to not automatically presume they are a snooty pretense or require a large capital outlay. These are entirely false assumptions.

Hope I'm not too rude here. In struggling to be understood I've certainly carried it too far. It's so much harder to talk about trying to experience travel and culture, which is subtle and a challenge to express, than to get hung up on white shoes.

I dont generally wear athletic shoes outside of the gym much less white athletic shoes. But if I did I would wear them in Europe. I used to wear them when I was a kid but not so much now b/c I found the white looked too dirty too quickly and I'm not into white polish!

I'm a big white tennis shoe wearer too, wore them all over Europe and the Middle East too. I'm going back to Germany and France in less than two months and will probably wear my white/gray/pink tennis shoes, unless I buy a new pair. They're comfortable and I don't plan to go anywhere that I would have to dress up. I also don't care what anyone thinks of the way I dress, or the shoes I wear. Why wear uncomfortable shoes that give me blisters and hurt my feet? Makes no sense.

Lindas post had some good points.

Pam, that mans tshirt was disgusting, and it infuriates me that he would wear it in public,, I would be the person that told him so too. Sorry, do what you want in private, but don't you dare expose my kids or my mom to your filthy mouth( t shirt),, its one thing that it used the full swear word,, and then another that it basically is talking about sex with underage girls,, as we all know, most babysitters are young girls. Disgusting pig,, and his wife or girlfriend was a moron.

Im waiting for our Italian friends to chime in on this one.

Italian men dress better to garden then any other men, of any other nationality , period..LOL,

Even in Paris, you can tell the Italian,, I think they are the sharpest dressers ever.

Linda, I am so sorry it was not your post that included restaurants.

Christy's post states: "Often, it matters very much how we are dressed. Walking into a restaurant in Paris, for example, wearing tennis shoes and shorts is disrespectful (just as it would be if you wore that outfit to a wedding, or heck, it would be if you wore that to a nice American restaurant). I've heard so many stories about people getting a cold shoulder in Paris from restaurant a maitre'd or waiter or shopkeeper and my first thought is always, I wonder how you were dressed. It's entirely possible you looked inappropriate and they wanted you out of there. In all my trips to France I've never--NEVER--had service anywhere that was anything less than very polite. And, I'm always dressed decently (always leather shoes, usually a skirt or dress)."

Are all restaurants in Paris fancy? If so maybe it is a place I would be uncomfortable visiting. I am more a takeout or supermarket meal kind of traveller as that is what my budget allows. I wouldn't be shopping at Dior either so I am not sure why the criticism from Christy for people who don't dress the part.

Oh, I'm sorry too. I got overwrought the way I do when "driving in Florence" or the "what's the best flat iron to use in Europe" comes up. (ahem, those are jokes..) It's more about me trying to clearly express myself--which ain't easy on this point--and wondering what I was doing wrong there?

I don't know what to say about the restaurants. I've never been turned away, seen anyone turned away, or heard about it first hand. If you were clearly inapproprate for a certain "dining experience" I'm sure that would happen. I would tend to think it's more subtle than that--people make assumptions about you and it affects their attitude toward you. Doesn't that happen ALL THE TIME here at home too?

But, dressing appropriately doesn't have to be expensive, fancy, uncomfortableor European. And it's a US attitude that this implies the restaurant therefore must be "expensive." I haven't been to Paris (still on the list) but like other places dressing well--not necessarily dressing up--is a courtesy that you extend to others--that doesn't translate into wearing expensive uncomfortable business clothes to dinner. Americans dress to please themselves and don't care what others think, so we have a hard time working with that.

Come to think of it, I've never been denied seating anywhere. On the contrary, they seem to go out of their way to find me a place to sit whether I'm alone, with friends or with my family in tow. I'm never dressed to the nines and I don't wear anything that would attract thieves' attention. Could it be it's because I'm wearing appropriate clothing rather than shorts, flip flops and/or white tennis shoes?

I submit that you're all preaching to the choir. Those who are interested in the subject of dressing appropriately don't need instructions in how to do so. Those for whom "appropriate dress depending on conditions" is something that doesn't occur to them naturally are rarely of the, "Oh my, I had no idea, thanks for telling me" persuasion.

So as long as you're comfortable with how you're dressed, good on ya. If it perturbs you to see a fellow countryman in a foreign country dressed in what you feel is ill-advised garb, try gaining some emotional distance from that thought. If your enmity is due to a "They give_______a bad name" sentiment (fill in any country, it's definitely NOT U.S. tourists who are the worst offenders) then, well, angst that goes nowhere may be your thing.

Now, having said that I was wondering if anyone besides me had heard about that babysitter in Wales who jumped the shark? Weird, wild stuff.

Hmm. Do you ever read this thread and wonder what people are wearing?? I'm sporting my beer-dyed "Ugly Tuna Saloona: warm beer, lousy food" tee shirt. I hear it's all the rage in the finest establisments in Wales. Fortunately no one in Nashville, New York or D.C has a clue how dorky I look. I'm just torturing you people with this scary trivia since I don't depend on you for contracts.

Jo, Been going to Europe for a month each summer for the past 14 years. Most Europens do not wear white tennis/jogging shoes around town. In the UK their known as Trainers. Students (I taught there for a year and lived in The Netherlands for three years)do not wear them to school, they change into their trainers for PE and after school sports and later change back into their regular shoes. Other folks wear them to their parks for exercise/sport. When I see a person wearing white tennis shoes around town I see an "American tourist". But really - who cares, go comfortable. Now to pick out the European - say "HI" to the the guy wearing shorts/tennis shoes and BLACK socks! Enjoy your trip!

Jo, I swear that every trip we make, I go out of my way to prove some of the folks on this board wrong about shoes/dressing.

I saw so many Europeans wearing white shoes, T-shirts with various teams they like, a few baseball caps etc. Sure in general they dress better than the average person here, but it's getting to a point now where you see North Face and all the other brands we have in the US.

I think there is a different between white shoes and white running shoes/cross trainers. I see white shoes all the time, but I hardly ever see white running shoes except in the gym. Workout clothes aren't worn here out and about like they are in the US and this includes white running shoes.

However, I think you should wear whatever makes you comfortable. Especially since the new trend among young people over here seems to be JEAN SHORTS with black tights and high heels. That is definitely one thing I won't be wearing to blend in.

Jo writes, "Have you never seen British men with white hankies on their heads?" Recently I was sent pics of buff young male stars in their heyday contrasting with their older non-buff selves. Hot Rod Stewart was shown, age 60+ in BOTH a Speedo AND with a hankie on his head.

In Paris I saw a well-dressed woman, with high heels, riding a bike down the street. I wouldn't even be able to get on a bike in high heels without tangling myself up somehow.

Linda, I think you've expressed your opinion well. In your opinion, white shoes aren't appropriate. But some here have a different opinion. This is a pretty amusing thread-- a bunch of North Americans arbitrating what Italians consider appropriate. Just a thought--- using extreme analogies for effect usually backfires and tends to undermine any point you're trying to make. Wear comfortable well broken in shoes of whatever color you feelco mfortable wearing, two pair if at all possible, bring an open mind and heart. Learn a few words of Italian, particularly the "politeness" words. Please, thank you, excuse me, I appreciate that. SMILE. Be comfortable in who you are and appreciate Italy for what it is. Seven days from now I'll be on a plane for trip 5 to Italia! I'm currently wearing workout clothes and PURPLE spa socks and watching "Only You" and sighing at all of the scenes in Rome.

Pat, I'm with you on Italian men and how they dress. My daughter was quite impressed because she is quite the fashionista. Oh, she always wore white shoes but they're not the huge Reebok running shoes.

I fall in between on this one.
I think it is important to dress decently when going for dinner for example...would I wear runners...no...I would wear approapriate footwear.

during the day though when I am sightseeing I want to be comfortable...would I wear traditional running/tennis shoes...no....but I do wear pumas which are more stylish and I remember alot of europeans on the last trip wearing them, especially the younger crowd.

But I don't wear tennis shoes on a daily basis unless I am at the gym ect....I wear puma style though in my daily life.
My partner wears more tradition tennis shoes and will wear them on the trip because that is what is most comfortable for him. But would he wear them at dinner...Never...

I think it is a fine line between being comfortable which is very important and style which is also important. Again the context is very important!

I believe someone posted it in a forum and some people took that info for granted.
However, white shoes come in differnt shapes and are worn for differnt reasons. Running white shoes look differnt than Converse i.e. I would never wear running or workout shoes unless I am inside the gym.
Many workout men's shoes in the US look very bulky and you don't really see those in Europe.
Some people don't understand that Europeans actually wear the same kind of clothes we do here in the states, but they just look different.
Europeans wear jeans, but not baggy jeans. Wear those in Europe and you'll be recognized as American.

The problem with this thread is that we have North Americans trying to impose their own fashion opinions on others, with the use of emotionally loaded terms like "inappropriate" and other value judgements. There is a secondary underlying assumption by some that all US travellers wish to not appear to be American.

"inappropriate" is not an "emotionally charged term" when used like this: "It is not appropriate to wear a bikini to church, or , it is not appropriate to wear mud encrusted work boots to a four star restuarant for dinner".

It also has nothing to do with looking or not looking American( when people ask what is "appropriate to wear to St Pauls " for instance)

I wear runners and shorts,, just not everywhere , everytime. There is a time and a place for everything. It is a judgement call though as to the where and when, and some poeple has trouble with the lines.

There is at least one guaranteed method for sparking a heated debate on ricksteves.com- make a statement for or against what to wear in Europe!

Recently I was in 6 large European cities and was keeping an eye open for the dreaded "white shoes" just to see if I saw anyone in them (I didn't wear any 'cuz I don't own any). Indeed, the only folks I saw in them were American tourists, but who cares - they were probably comfortable.

The Europeans were mostly wearing stylish, pointy-toed, leather shoes BUT they weren't going to be walking 5-10 miles a day touring all the sights!! I definitely wouldn't wear my most fashionable shoes while touring all day("oh, my aching feet!") and I'm sure the Europeans wouldn't either.

Good point, Lee. This observation could also double for the "Europeans don't wear shorts" myth... how many of us wear shorts to work in the cities where we live?

I agree Lee that's an excellent point.

I heard about the "don't wear white shoes in Europe story" and bought a pair of black Clark's unloop shoes. When I got to Paris I saw plenty of white shoes but I'm glad I bought the Clark's as I bought a pair in every color when I returned they were so comfortable. I have a wide foot and sneakers are just not that comfortable for me.

Greetings from Firenze. I had my first Rick Steves sighting--- he was visiting our hotel the day we arrived. We've had a fun game of counting white shoes in Italy. After the first 300 it got tedious and we quit.Sorry to pop the bubble but they're everywhere--- both tourists and locals. Mostly athletic or casual shoes. The people wearing them appeared neither "inappropriate" or "dorky". They looked like they were having the time of their lives. I was shocked to see so few tourists this time of year. The owner of our hotel said Rick check out his rooms and asked questions about how the shift of the ecconomy has been affecting his business.

I don't understand what's wrong with looking "foreign." I'm more concerned about appearing rude or uncouth, whether at home or abroad. I don't mind looking American, because that is what I am and I'm not going to fool anyone by wearing clothes with European labels. The minute I open my mouth to order in my badly pronounced and probably grammatically incorrect French, it's going to be pretty clear what my nationality is. What matters more is that I don't look like an American jerk, and this is easy to avoid by dressing properly for the occasion, speaking quietly and taking an interest in what's going on without comparing it unfavorably to what I have "back home."

Oh my gosh, this is so true. Before my first trip to Europe with my brother, I chastised him for packing jeans because I read in several places "nobody wears blue jeans in Europe". Well, wasn't I surprised when I arrived in Paris and TONS of people were wearing jeans (mostly people under 35-ish like us). Boy he gives me a hard time about that now :-) Granted, they're not wearing torn up light blue acid wash jeans but the jeans that are considered "stylish" here at home are stylish there too.

I've given up on packing "special" and expensive "travel clothes" (you know, the Tilley/Eagle Creek stuff) because I just look like I'm heading off to an African Safari (not to mention I'm uncomfortable) and everybody else is basically wearing what I wear back home. Other than a few pairs of quick-drying socks and undies, I don't even buy new clothes before I go to Europe, I just take a few nice-ish outfits and if need be I can buy a few items there (that are surprisingly cheap compared to the equivalent here).

The worst books I ever read about traveling overseas was the French or Foe series (oddly recommended by Rick), it was so funny how off or wrong these books were regarding style, customs, etiquette, etc. Not to mention outdated (ie. prices in French Franks)

Oh well, live and learn I guess...

D-

Ashely, I see this is your first post, so I want to welcome you. I agree 100% on what you said. And Darrell, I agree with you too. I seldom buy new clothes before going to Europe. Maybe I did buy a few silk clothes because they take up less room in my backpack, but I bring mostly clothes I already have.

Wow! It is really amazing to read through some of this. I've read a lot of it before on here, and I must say that I appreciate Jo's original post, though I also recognize that what goes in Germany isn't necessarily fashionable in France or Italy. But my larger question, that I haven't seen addressed here, though it may have been by somebody, is this: Does no one on this board think that tourists pack more than one outfit for their trip? What I mean is, people dressing casual as they walk around a city during the day looking at tourist destinations does not mean they ALL wear the same outfits to dinner or the theater at night (I know some do - but some of those are locals, too).

I wore shorts around London all day but changed into slacks to go to a nice dinner and a show in the evening. It can be done! Even when packing light! I agree with those who say that there are certain occasions where dressing inappropriately really makes you stand out. However, I would not classify walking around the streets and museums of a large European city as one of those occasions.

I think that everyone who puts this much time and thought into topics like this would be well-served to remember the old adage, "You wouldn't worry so much about what other people think about you if you realized how little they did it." I think that was Jo's thesis, and I agree.

What we Americans call running shoes, white or otherwise, are commonplace in Europe.

However, if you're overweight, overly loud, wearing immaculate white shoes, a matching belt, an Izod polo shirt and polyester slacks of a primary color, that's a different matter. That outfit would mark you in Tulsa.

The important thing is to wear comfortable broken-in shoes. Then, they won't be immaculate, white or otherwise.

Why can't shoe companies make shoes that feel like athletic shoes and look like dress shoes? I have 2 pair that are suppposed to fit that description, but it doesn't work.

My selection of shoes is decreasing by the minutes. No heels, to much walking, flip flops not appropriate according to previous emails, jogging shoes not for me!

What do the young ladies wear?
Ladies I need some suggestions before I go shoe shopping!

It kind of depends on your age a bit, but converse tennis shoes are HUGE over here and I believe in France too. Other than that, a pair pumas, or nike, or addidas, or something like that. Or a good pair of sandals with an absorbing, comfortable sole. For dressing up in the evenings if you desire, ballerina shoes, the stores are full of them here, in every color of the rainbow and every price range too.

Waddys - re: flip flops - while I wouldn't wear them myself for European travel, my daughter took 2 sturdy pair with her for her 3 1/2 week Europe trip and loved them. The only trouble she got into as far as appropriate was she was unable to enter a particular club in London that had a strict dress code. Again, I personally find them hard to walk in around my hometown for a day so would not bring them myself. For summer Europe travel I bring 2 pairs of sandals with straps and good cushy sole - I love my Mephistos, Eccos & Naots. A few years I actually bought the same Mephisto sandal in 2 different colors and brought those.

Waddys, If I'm going anyplace that has a beach, I pack my flip flops. I take 3 pair of shoes. Usually black walking shoes, a pair of cute but comfortable sandals and the flip flops.

I wear white flip-flops with running soles. Covers all the bases.

Well Neil, you will certainly "blend" in Wales. Mission accomplished.

I read this before I left mid May to Paris so it was on my mind while we were traveling. I don't think I've ever noticed so many peoples shoes! My final thought is it doesn't matter what color you wear, b/c the shoes we have access to buy in the US are very different than the choices you can buy in Europe. It's not the color that makes American's stand out, it's our styles.

Well after 17 days in Italy the data is in. White shoes, particularly athletic type shoes are EVERYWHERE. The Italians I asked about the "propriety" of wearing white shoes in Italy were perplexed by the question, and seemed universal in the opinion that no one of their acquaintence judged people by their shoes--- though they found it an amusing concept. There were a number of comments about women wearing tank tops, halter tops and tube tops that were of an age or physical endowment that made such an "unsupported" fashion choice inappropriate, and the grwoing trend of tourists of all nationalities to ignore the posted restrictions on photos/ flash. I myself observed this in the Sistine chapel last Tuesday. Bottom line, how you comport yourself and treat others is what matters, not the shoes you wear.

Actually, the majority of the white shoe wearers wouldn't have a chance in the worst dressed contest. The Italians we spoke with don't get the "white shoes are the antichrist" thing. But hey why should we consider their opinion of what is appropriate--- it's not like it's their country right LOL.

Thanks Maggie. That was my original premise. Both the fashionable young woman from Paris and the young man from Switzerland had also never heard this thing about white shoes. They both were puzzled when I asked them about it. It is a myth. People in these countries are not looking at your shoes. This is not what gives you away as a tourist.

So, the count is rising. In Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland and I imagine Wales too, wearing white shoes is ok. Lets hear from some other countries!

We have just returned from 2 weeks in London and southern England. I loved every minute, and every Brit I met, and couldn't tell you what color shoes they had on if my life depended on it. Nor do I think they could tell you about mine. For the record, mine were black Crocs. And jeans. Every day, everywhere. And we were treated with warmth and kindness for 14 consecutive days. Period.

So,, its not white shoes that are a no no,, its "halter tops and tube tops" ....LOL

Its always something.

Because this is the topic that will not die and go away, by the power invested in me by The Master:I hereby appoint each person who has posted more than once on this topic to be a:Member of the Helpline Fashion Police SubcommitteeFrom now on, every fashion question we get will automatically be routed to your computers for dispensing of words of wisdom to the perplexed on the subject of what to wear in Europe.

This conversation actually happened in Paris when a woman in a tube top walked by:

My Wife: "Gross. I mean, that's just wrong."

Me: "Hon, it's OK to wear white shoes. We just decided this on the Helpline."