If you’ve been binge-watching Emily in Paris or re-running Sex and the City episodes to prepare for your European getaway, I have some gentle advice: Hit pause.
While we love the drama of television fashion, the reality of European style is far more understated. During my time living in Paris and curating itineraries for clients across the continent, I learned that European fashion is built on a "less is more" philosophy. The goal is effortless elegance, not costume drama.
Nothing ruins a bespoke travel experience faster than feeling like an outsider because of what you’re wearing. To help you travel like a local—and ensure you are treated like one—I’ve compiled the ultimate packing edit.
The Top: Swap the Logo Tee for a V-Neck
Leave behind: Sports jerseys and loud, printed T-shirts. In the U.S., a team jersey is a sign of pride; in Europe (unless it’s the World Cup), it screams "tourist." The Upgrade: A high-quality, loose V-neck tee. It’s the ultimate neutral base. Whether pa
2. The Bag: Swap the Backpack for a Sleek Crossbody
Leave behind: The bulky backpack worn on your chest to prevent theft. It signals to pickpockets that you have something worth stealing. The Upgrade: A leather crossbody or a stylish belt bag (fanny pack) worn across the chest. It keeps your hands free for gelato and shopping bags while keeping your passport secure and your silhouette streamlined.
3. The Layer: Swap the Hoodie for a Crewneck Sweater
Leave behind: Oversized hoodies. While acceptable in Berlin's club scene, in most luxury settings (museums, bistros), hoodies are considered gym wear. The Upgrade: A camel or neutral crewneck sweater. It’s the cornerstone of "Old Money" aesthetic. It pairs perfectly with trousers or dark denim for a look that is gallery-ready.
4. The Denim: Swap Ripped Jeans for Tailored Skinny or Straight Leg
Leave behind: Distressed denim. Europe is generally more formal than the US; rips and tears are seen as messy rather than trendy. The Upgrade: Dark indigo, tailored jeans. A clean, dark wash is acceptable almost everywhere, from a casual lunch to a smart-casual dinner.
5. The Outerwear: Swap the Rain Jacket for a Trench
Leave behind: Heavy-duty, technical rain gear that looks like you’re reporting on a hurricane. The Upgrade: A belted trench coat. It is the ultimate European staple. It serves as a windbreaker, keeps you dry, and instantly pulls together even the simplest outfit.
6. The Shoes: Swap Stilettos for Chelsea Boots
Leave behind: Sky-high heels. Between the cobblestones in Rome and the grates in Paris, heels are a safety hazard. You will look (and feel) uncomfortable. The Upgrade: Waterproof Chelsea boots. They offer a sophisticated matte finish and a non-slip grip, bridging the gap between sensible walking shoes and chic dinner footwear.
7. The Kicks: Swap Cross-Trainers for Vintage-Style Sneakers
Leave behind: Your chunky gym shoes. If you can run a marathon in them, they don’t belong at brunch. The Upgrade: Vintage-inspired, low-profile sneakers. Think sleek silhouettes that look just as good with a midi dress as they do with trousers.
8. The Trousers: Swap Cargo Pants for Palazzo Pants
Leave behind: Bulky cargo pants. The Upgrade: High-waisted Palazzo pants. These are my secret weapon for flights. They are as comfortable as pajamas but look incredibly chic. Pair them with a block heel for a seamless transition to a dinner party.
9. The Comfort Wear: Swap Leggings for Faux Leather
Leave behind: Athletic leggings (outside of the hotel gym). The Upgrade: Faux leather pants or elevated joggers. They offer the same stretch and comfort for long walking days but fit right in at a trendy bar in Barcelona or an Antwerp gallery.
10. The Coat: Swap the Puffer for a Wool Coat
Leave behind: Neon or bright puffer jackets. Nothing identifies a tourist faster than a bright, puffy silhouette in a sea of black and navy coats. The Upgrade: A double-breasted wool coat. It provides warmth and wind protection while maintaining a sharp, tailored silhouette. It makes you look like you belong in the city, not on a ski slope.
11. The Hat: Swap the Baseball Cap for a Fedora
Leave behind: Baseball caps and bucket hats. The Upgrade: A wide-brim wool fedora. It’s practical for sun and rain, hides a bad hair day, and adds an immediate touch of glamour to your travel photos.
12. The Handbag: Swap the Monogram for a Minimalist Tote
Leave behind: Flashy designer logos. While you are in the land of Gucci and Vuitton, "Stealth Wealth" is the current mood. Flashy logos also make you a target. The Upgrade: A high-quality, unbranded vegan leather tote with a zipper. It’s discreet, safer, and mimics the effortless style of the locals.
13. The Dress: Swap Bodycon for a Midi Dress
Leave behind: Tight, mini bodycon dresses. The Upgrade: A button-down midi or maxi dress. A satin or cotton midi dress is universally flattering, culturally appropriate for visiting churches, and moves beautifully as you walk. Layer it with a leather jacket for chilly evenings.
14. The Summer Bottom: Swap Shorts for Cropped Denim
Leave behind: Short-shorts. While necessary in extreme heat, they are rarely worn by locals in city centers outside of beach towns. The Upgrade: High-waisted, wide-leg cropped jeans. They offer ventilation and style, looking appropriate in cafes where cut-offs might be frowned upon.
15. The Storage: Swap the Travel Vest for a Utility Jacket
Leave behind: The "Safari" vest with 20 pockets. It screams "tourist with cash." The Upgrade: A utility zip-up jacket or Anorak. You get the same deep pockets for your lip balm and phone, but the look is utilitarian-chic rather than tactical gear.
The Golden Rule: When in doubt, lean toward neutrals, tailoring, and natural fabrics. You want to focus on the architecture, the food, and the experience—not on pulling up your strapless dress or tripping in your heels.
Planning a European getaway? Contact me today to start building your bespoke itinerary.
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