My husband and I travel regularly, typically two, three to four week trips per year. I put a lot of thought into my wardrobe. I start by deciding whether we’ll be traveling with carryon or with larger luggage. Even if we opt for larger checked bags we travel as light as possible. The factors I consider are; what are we doing (e.g. hiking or visiting cities), the likely weather, comfort, packability, quick drying and how to mix and match. One thing I do not do, is aim to dress like a local! So many travel sites seem to think this is important. I recently read about the importance of wearing black or neutral tones if you don’t want to stand out in European cities. We just spent two weeks in Spain visiting cities such as Seville, Cordoba, Grenada and Ronda. People, both local and tourists, were wearing all kinds of bright colours. So my advice is wear the clothes you feel good in. There are so many other important things to consider when trying to be a considerate “visitor” who fits in, what you wear isn’t one of them.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
8311 posts
There’s a long discussion currently on this topic. Here’s the link:
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Interesting discussion!
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11953 posts
Sounds like you go through the same mental process as I do and we often go for 6 to 8 weeks with no more clothing than I take for 3 weeks. I do not wear a lot of black at home so neither do I wear it overmuch when traveling. I do like, at home and on the road, a base color (navy, black, khaki) and then pack two or three other colors for tops and layers so they mix and match so navy/khaki/bright pink/off-white for an upcoming spring trip, usually black/red/white for autumn or winter. Works for me and I am frequently approached both by people speaking the local language and tourists asking for directions.
Posted by
Phoenix🌵
3264 posts
There are so many other important things to consider when trying to be a considerate “visitor” who fits in, what you wear isn’t one of them.
So true. Being polite, courteous and curious is most important. Wear whatever you want that complies with sites' dress codes, e.g. shoulders and knees covered in Italian churches. Beyond that, be comfortable. Nobody cares what you wear plus you will never see them again.