We are heading to Madrid next week, and need some adivce about how to dress. We usually pack light, but some things we've been reading suggest we should pack some dressier clothes for evenings. Thanks!
It is no different from the US. The more exclusive/expensive the place the dressier. But they won't refuse to serve you if you are under dressed and no one knows you. No matter how you dress they will know you are a tourist. Relax and enjoy.
To pack light, I like to outfits that can be comfortable for sightseeing during the day that I can dress up a little in the evenings. Shoes help with this a lot. Walking around in athletic-type sneakers (as opposed to more "trendy" stylish sneakers) will make you stand out in fashionable European cities, particularly in the evening/at dinner. I wear comfy shoes during the day but if I'm going to have having a nice dinner and hitting a couple of bars afterwards, I put on heeled boots in winter or heeled sandals or pumps. Add a scarf and a cute cardigan or blazer and your jeans are dressed up!