Tag Archives: travel clothes

Europe

What to Wear on Vacation in Europe

Europe

If you are planning a trip to Europe you are in for a wonderful time and will experience things that you may never experience again. What is very important when you do visit Europe though that many Americans may not take into consideration is the way you dress. If you go looking like ‘an American’ you will be labeled as such and you could miss out on a whole bunch of things as many Europeans are on the stuffy side and will tend to judge you by the way you dress. So how should you dress when on vacation in Europe?

Europe is a big place and depending on where you are going it could be hot and balmy or cool and crisp so it pays to be prepared for anything. Here are some tips for how you should plan on dressing when you are getting ready to head over to Europe:

•    Classy cloths: Again, many Europeans will judge you solely on the cloths you are wearing. Unfortunately for you, the bulk of the people you will meet in Europe are hotel workers, restaurant worker, and so on. In order to get the good rooms, good tables, and good food you should always dress as though you have it coming to you.
•    Slacks as opposed to jeans: Jeans started gaining popularity in the 1990s in Europe but there are still a great number of places that won’t even let you cross the threshold if you are wearing a pair. A nice pair of comfy slacks made of wool and polyester will have you feeling and looking great and will be much more excepted wherever it is you go in Europe.
•    Dress in layers: This goes back to the point about being ready for any type of weather and climate. Europe has the tendency to even change from town to town when it comes to temperature, humidity, rain or shine, you name it. A great way to be prepared is by layering your clothing. What this means is that you are simply going to wear items that can easily be removed and then added back as the weather permits. Always start off with the most layers on in the morning and then adjust as the day goes on.  Make sure that you look great no matter what layer you may find yourself in.
•    Shoes: Europeans love their shoes and you will notice a great number of them looking at your feet way before they ever look into your eyes. The most important rule with shoes in Europe is to have a pair that is already broken in. If you look like you just bought them to fit in, you’ll be a dead giveaway and almost instantly be labeled as ‘the American.’ Be aware of what shoes you are wearing with your outfit and as cozy as those old white sneakers are, leave them at home.

Europe is definitely a wonderful place to visit and your trip can be even more enjoyable if you follow the local rule; cloths make the man. Dress classy and comfy and you will never go wrong.

New Orleans

What To Wear In New Orleans

New Orleans

New Orleans has a unique cultural history and is steeped in tradition. The city is a study in contrasts with very wealthy areas and very poor ones. New Orleans is also known as a city that knows how to party and celebrate. Numerous festivals are held annually that attract tourists from around the world. Despite the fact that the population of this southern city is still greatly reduced in the post-Hurricane Katrina era, it is still a lively place full of joie de vivre.

If you are visiting New Orleans you will find that it is important to dress for the weather. Summers are very hot with average daily temperatures in the 90s. Even winter is mild, with 60s for daytime averages and no snow to contend with. However, as commonly found in the south, all buildings are air conditioned and even in summer you will need to tote a shirt or light sweater to wear inside, especially if you are easily chilled.

New Orleans is a very laid back city where practically anything goes. You will see a wide variety of clothing and styles on both the residents and tourists in the Big Easy. Local musicians influence the style of the city with their Bohemian looks. Artists who strive to look unique by putting together some unusual looks are also commonly seen, mixed in with business professionals and other more straight-laced individuals.

New Orleans is very much a college town, being home to multiple colleges and universities. The abundance of young people in the city are there primarily for post-secondary education. However their presence gives the city a youthful appearance. They also make the fashions of the younger generation more common around the city. You will see lots of students relaxing and studying, dressed casually in jeans or shorts and a T-shirt. The casually dressed tourist can easily fit in.

When it comes to going to New Orleans on business, note that many companies require professional business attire. Others opt for business casual, but don’t let the reputation of the city lure you into dressing too casually. The workplace is still taken seriously and people dress appropriately. Learn the guidelines for the company you will visit before making a mistake.

If you are planning to go out on the town, plan to dress up. Clubbing is serious in New Orleans. However, natives will warn you against wearing Mardi Gras beads or dressing in an overly revealing outfit. For dinner in upscale restaurants, expect to dress up. Many will require men to wear a jacket and tie. Women will need to wear dress pants, a skirt or dress.

If you plan to explore the city on foot, be sure to choose shoes that are supportive and comfortable. High heels are not the best choice. The streets are often uneven and you may hurt yourself. If you make the right choice in footwear you’ll be able to do more and see more and enjoy your stay to the maximum.

Get your stuff ready now for the Big Easy and enjoy your stay in a one-of-a-kind

Phoenix

What To Wear In Phoenix

Phoenix

Phoenix is the state capital of Arizona. It is also the largest city in the state and the 5th largest city in terms of population in the entire country. Located in the desert, Phoenix is also the hottest big city in America. The daytime averages for Phoenix are over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the months of June, July and August. Winter temperatures are considerably lower but still are warm enough to be considered summer temperatures for states up north. If you are heading to Phoenix, learn a little about how people dress there so that you are as comfortable as possible.

Packing for the weather is important when you are going to Phoenix and most other destinations. Being in the desert, it is a very dry locale and therefore umbrellas and raincoats are completely unnecessary. Even winter is very mild there with high 60s and low 70s as daytime averages. Nighttime temperatures are in the 40s in the winter. If you are visiting Phoenix in winter, you will be comfortable in typical spring and fall clothing. Many people who reside in the city will be wearing heavy sweaters and heavy weight pants or jeans at that time of the year. It’s mostly because they enjoy getting to wear that type of clothing for a short period of time, rather than any true intolerance to cold. If you are packing lightweight clothes, remember to bring a jacket or a heavy sweater to help you keep warm in the evening.

The extremely hot summers are cause for most people to stay inside for a good portion of the day. If you are in Phoenix in the summer, bring lightweight clothing for outside and a sweater or blazer for air conditioned spaces. Waterparks are a popular tourist destination and are also popular with Phoenix residents, especially in the summer. Therefore if you are planning a trip to Phoenix, be sure to pack a swimsuit, so you can enjoy the break from the heat.

Bring comfortable shoes or sneakers if you are playing the part of a tourist in Phoenix. There are many beautiful parks to enjoy, however you will be on your feet and will need to be comfortable. You will also need to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Sunscreen is also a must if you will be outside for any amount of time.

Phoenix has a variety of different types of businesses; however communications and high-tech firms are most prevalent. There are also many government departments found in the city. Business wear in Phoenix is pretty much the same as in other parts of North America. Some companies want a professional business look while others prefer business casual. In Phoenix, the major difference is the weight of fabrics. People tend to wear lightweight business clothes year round because they can.

Pack yourself a variety of lightweight summer clothing in loose fitting styles if you are heading to Phoenix. Stay cool and enjoy the desert.

Chicago

What To Wear In Chicago

Chicago

Chicago is nicknamed the Windy City and if you visit at certain times of the year, you will have no doubt as to where the name came from, although in reality it was named such because of local politicians there. It is an exciting place to visit. However, knowing what to wear in Chicago is very important. Chicago may be in the Midwest, however, it is definitely a big city and as such fashion is different than in small towns.

Chicago is a city known for its architecture and elegance. It is the booming “New York of the Midwest” and as such, fashion is important. Those who live and work in Chicago will attest to the fact that most people there pay attention to fashion. They keep up with the trends, dress with care and accessorize beautifully. If you are going to Chicago, you will want to have a variety of well-put-together outfits ready for all occasions. Whether you are going to a show, restaurants, sight-seeing or shopping, you will see city-dwellers dressed up.

The city itself offers a variety of boutiques, featuring renowned designers. There are also a multitude of places where you can find less expensive but still stylish outfits. Chicago is truly the biggest fashion Mecca west of New York. Well-dressed individuals are wherever you go.

As with every place, the season dictates more precisely what you will wear. Those who live in Chicago will tell you that they have two seasons summer and winter, with a week or two of milder temperatures separating them. While this may be a bit of an exaggeration, it makes for easier clothing choices when you are shopping. With a wardrobe of true summer clothes and true winter clothes you will be able to manage the tiny spring and fall with a little mix and match creativity.

Summer is very warm in Chicago, so keep your clothing choices light and airy. If you plan to sightsee, be sure to take an extra sweater or blouse to cover up when you go inside. You may get cold in air conditioned buildings. Wear comfortable supportive shoes, because even though the L is a reliable form of transportation in the city, you will still find that there is quite a bit of walking to do to get to some of the places you will likely want to visit.

In winter, Chicago can get bitterly cold. Be sure to have winter boots with good traction to make sure you don’t slip on ice. In addition, a long very warm winter coat is needed. Be sure to invest in good warm winter clothing for optimal comfort. If you plan to spend extended periods of time outside, a snow suit and possibly even some long underwear will be welcomed also.

If you are visiting Chicago on business, keep in mind that this city is a financial and business center and as such, many companies, especially ones located in downtown Chicago, require business attire. For women this will include pantyhose, even in the summer, with a business suit. For men business suits are a requirement.

When eating out, expect to find dress codes in the nicer restaurants. Shorts are often a no-no, especially for evening dining. Many places will require men to wear a jacket.

As you prepare for what to wear in Chicago, be sure to check the weather so you know what the Second City is bringing your way.