WHAT TO WEAR: The Modern Tourist

When people think of the word “tourist” they tend to envision a middle-aged couple wearing matching Hawaiian shirts, hiking shoes, fanny packs, and cargo pants. However, now that college students are venturing out more through study abroad programs and alternative breaks, that image is being redefined. More than ever, tourists are comprised of young people who are traveling to trendy cities and wish to dress accordingly.

The first element that makes this outfit perfect for exploring a new city is the color choice. As a guest in another country, the last thing you want to do is stand out. It makes a lot of sense to wear dark neutral tones because you know that color scheme will fit in anywhere. As a result, it’s more difficult for locals to identify you as a tourist straight away. This Fashionista’s black outfit with gray jeans communicates that she is willing to observe her foreign surroundings, rather than become a spectacle herself.

The most important piece of this ensemble is our Fashionista’s coat. Being somewhere new makes it difficult to know exactly what to expect, which includes weather conditions. However, this jacket serves as the perfect combat to temperamental weather. It’s long so that it covers a good portion of the body. Also, it’s waterproof, which is important in case it starts to rain as you’re sightseeing. The inner lining of the coat will also be good for any heavy winds that may pick up. The worst thing as a traveler is being caught unprepared for poor weather since it can prevent you from enjoying the day’s activities. A good quality coat can make a huge difference on how your day goes.

One might argue that the most practical footwear for a day of exploring is a sneaker. However when in a fashionably conscious city, you may want to wear something a little more stylish. In the case, our Fashionista chose black booties with a slight heel. They are still comfortable enough to walk in all day, but they also have a nicer look to them than if she had chosen tennis shoes instead. Also, these shoes are great for transitioning from day to night. She won’t have to go back to her hotel in the evening to change for dinner. Rather, her shoes are nice enough that they can still be worn out.

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