So you’ve got your nomination for study abroad, now what? You’ll need to make sure that wherever you’re heading, you aren’t sticking out like a sore, American thumb. Yes, that means less leggings-as-pants and no, you should not wear t-shirts with obnoxious logos (hopefully you already knew that one). And yes, you should embrace different and more local fashion trends. Why not do your best to get the best emersion you can? Emersion through La mode!
FRANCE:
France is the ultimate capital of fashion next to Italy, and so there is a certain expectation when it comes to what you might wanna bring. For fall, when many of us are heading overseas, France can have some unpredictable, rainy, moody days, or some beautiful sunny ones so versatility is key. The examples below are what I think of as quintessential French fashion, tailored and put together with a distinct tousled, sexy attitude.
I would opt for a solid trench coat; it’s easy to layer with other pieces and is always classic. Or, a structured blazer – maybe wool – (shown above) that’s warm yet neutral enough to be worn with any number of clothing combinations.
SPAIN:
Spain is more Mediterranean in its fashion approach, and is known for its beautiful weather, so you won’t be needing to bundle up quite as much. Spaniards do enjoy a good leather jacket however, and will often pair it with a more flowy, colorful pallet. Many people dress for comfort, and end up with a signature style which is both effortlessly cool, and rich in fabrics and textures.
ARGENTINA: For many Latin American countries we may be tempted to think of the clothing of Carnival: intense and bright colors with flashes of skin, however the style can be found with more blacks and whites, with smatterings of red, turquoise and purple. Femininity is central to a woman’s fashion sense, and always has been and so women’s style ends up being a lot more about cut than any specific trend. Sexiness is essential, especially when it comes to shoes, so even if you’re heading to a day of classes, don’t be afraid to spice things up.
UNITED KINGDOM:
For the UK I’d say it’s okay to opt into either the sort of punk-rock, grunge look, or the polished, preppy Kate Middleton inspired ensembles. However! (And this is important.) Do not forget an umbrella! You’ll probably want some rain boot-type shoes as well. It’s no fun sightseeing, pub-crawling, or attending class while your feet are soaking. Aside from that rule, the UK is very accepting of all styles and trends. Granted you may not want to invest in a baby-blue tracksuit as many of the shadier characters tend to do, but in the end the choice is yours. (But just don’t.)
Remember: wherever you go, don’t forget about your own style! Feel free to incorporate an international flare, but don’t be bogged down when some fashion choices are just too wild to tackle. Remain steadfast in what you like to wear and the rest will come to you.