So You Think You Can Dress Like Royalty in England? Think Again! A Guide to Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas (and Possibly Arrest)
Ah, England. Land of crumpets, queuing, and questionable weather. You've booked your trip, got your fish and chips vocabulary down (it's "chippy" by the way, not "chip shop," darling), but there's one crucial detail: what on earth do you wear? Fear not, intrepid traveler! This handy guide will steer you clear of sartorial disasters and ensure you blend in like a pro (or at least a confused tourist who somehow managed to avoid dressing like a neon sign).
Packing Perils: Items to Leave at Home (Unless You're Going for the "American Abroad" Look)
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
- The Union Jack Jumpsuit: Yes, it exists. No, it should never be worn by anyone who isn't the Queen herself. Trust us, the locals will appreciate it.
- Anything with "I (heart) London" on it: We get it, you love Big Ben. But this screams "tourist" louder than a flock of pigeons outside Buckingham Palace.
- Flip-Flops (aka Thongs, for our Australian readers): Unless you're planning on spending your entire trip lounging on a beach in Cornwall (unlikely, given the weather), leave these at home. England is a land of cobblestones and damp sidewalks, not poolside cocktails.
Footwear Faux Pas: Stepping Up Your Shoe Game
QuickTip: Use CTRL + F to search for keywords quickly.
- Stilettos in the City: Think about those aforementioned cobblestones. Imagine navigating them in stilettos. Now picture yourself with an ankle the size of a grapefruit and a face permanently contorted in pain. Not ideal for sightseeing, is it? Opt for flats or wedges with good grip.
- Hiking Boots in Harrods: Unless you're planning on scaling Mount Snowdon, you can ditch the hiking boots for the city. They'll make you look like you're about to embark on an expedition to find the Loch Ness Monster in the middle of Oxford Street.
Special Occasions: When to Ditch the Casual Look (Unless You Want to Get Kicked Out)
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
 |
- Posh Restaurants: If you're planning on treating yourself to a fancy meal, check the dress code beforehand. Some places might require smarter attire (jacket and trousers for men, dresses or skirts for women). You don't want to be turned away at the door because you look like you just rolled off the plane from Cancun.
- The Royal Enclosure at Ascot: Look, unless you're royalty or a millionaire socialite, you probably won't be attending Ascot. But if by some miracle you do, be prepared to break out the fascinators and frock coats. This is one place where casual just won't cut it.
How to Avoid Fashion Faux Pas: A Quick Guide
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
- Comfort is Key: England is a great place to walk around and explore. Pack clothes that are comfortable and allow for movement.
- Layers are Your Friend: The weather in England is unpredictable, to say the least. Pack layers so you can adjust to whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
- Accessorize Wisely: A scarf or hat can be a great way to add a pop of personality to your outfit and keep you warm. Just avoid anything too outlandish (think giant Union Jack top hats).
Bonus! Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
- How to Pack for Rain in England? Pack a waterproof jacket and consider bringing an umbrella. But don't be surprised if it rains sideways – that's just England being England.
- How to Dress for Pubs? Smart casual is the way to go. Jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly acceptable, but maybe ditch the ripped jeans and the band t-shirt with an offensive slogan.
- How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist? Ditch the fanny pack (it's called a bum bag here) and the aforementioned Union Jack apparel. Focus on comfortable, practical clothes.
- How to Dress for Clubs? It depends on the club. Some might have a dress code, so check beforehand. Otherwise, smart casual is usually a safe bet.
- How to Blend in Like a Local? The key is to relax and not worry too much about what you're wearing. The English are a pretty laid-back bunch when it comes to fashion. Just be yourself and have fun!
Now you're all set to conquer England in style (or at least, without causing a fashion riot). Remember, there's no need to stress – just pack comfortable clothes, embrace the layers, and don't forget your sense of
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
