What Not to Wear to Look European

After more than four years abroad in Europe, I got a very good sense of what to wear to look European. Pretty quickly after moving back to the United States, I picked up on some major differences between European and American fashion. There are a lot of pieces that are worn on either side of the ocean – button-downs, blazers, loafers, etc. In fact, a lot of the items in this post will fit right in whether you’re in New York or Amsterdam. But as important as it is to know what to wear in Europe, it’s just as important to know what not to wear to look European.

Maybe you’re traveling to Europe or just want to infuse some class into your daily outfits. Either way, this list contains a few things you’ll want to leave at home (or potentially just donate). Europeans are known for their sophisticated, classy style, and the below items definitely won’t get you there. Keep reading for the items to toss, and a few things to replace them with so you fit right in amongst the Europeans.

Xx, Kelsey

Graphic tees

At the top of the list for what not to wear to look European are graphic tees. You’ll never see a European in a graphic tee announcing where they went to college or what sports team they root for. And don’t even get me started on those sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek graphic tees. That doesn’t mean Europeans don’t wear ANY graphic tees, but they stick to ones that are more minimalistic. Or better yet, opt for a super nice basic white or black tee to tie your looks together.

Flip-flops

Unless you’re literally going to and from the beach, leave your flip-flops at home. Wearing thong sandals for anything else will make you instantly stick out as an American. Instead, opt for some classy slides. Look for details like nice stitching, quality leather, and trendy styles. Europeans always invest in quality, and it shows in their shoe choices!

Pajamas in public

I’m not going to lie I’ve been guilty of leaving the house in my loungewear to walk the dog since we moved back to the US. This is something you’ll never catch a European doing. They’ll always throw on something easy like a breezy dress or pair of linen pants versus stepping outside for anything in their pajamas. You definitely won’t catch them in a pair of pj pants at the airport. Steer clear of wearing anything that falls under the pajama or loungewear category out of the house if you want to look more European.

Hoodies

To be honest, I rarely even thought about hoodies in the years I lived abroad. Hoodies make this list of what not to wear to look European because you’ll rarely ever see one being worn in Europe. Instead, opt for a crew neck sweatshirt. Those you’ll find plenty of!

Bright colors and patterns

For the most part, Europeans wear much more subdued colors and patterns. In fact, in most European countries, standing out in the crowd is frowned upon. Wearing something like camouflage or a very loud print will make you look very American. The one exception to this rule is when you’re somewhere like Spain or in a beach town. Then you’re more likely to see bright colors and patterns on Europeans.

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Top is old Zara | Sézane jeans | Quay sunglasses