From Suitcases to Streets: My Abroad Fashion Diary
Written by Lola Schectman
Over the past few months, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to explore some of the most stylish cities and scenic spots in the world while studying abroad. Fashion truly varies by location, and knowing what to pack can elevate your travel experience. Here’s a breakdown of the styles I encountered (and wore) on my trips thus far.
Barcelona, Spain: Year-round Aesthetic
My home base is Barcelona, a region with an effortless and unique style year-round. Locals have been layering up in oversized wool coats, chunky scarves, and boots. Neutral tones are mostly worn here, but pops of color appear in statement accessories like handbags, belts and heels. Denim is a staple and is often paired with oversized sweaters and button-up cardigans. I have yet to experience the fashion of a Barcelona summer.
Madrid, Spain: Polished and Timeless
The fashion in Madrid was high-end. Locals wore structured coats, trousers and heeled boots, making them look effortlessly put-together at all times. The color palette was largely neutral, with handbags and stylish sneakers or loafers often accompanying the outfits. If you like to thrift, be sure to check out Neare and Disco Cherry Vintage!
Chamonix, France: Fur Coats & Après-Ski Chic
When we weren’t skiing, we embraced the après-ski aesthetic. Think plush fur coats, cozy turtleneck and fitted ski pants that look just as good on the slopes as they do at the lodge for an après-ski party. Accessories were key: big sunglasses, beanies, headbands, furry boots, leather gloves and scarves. Whether you were actually skiing or just there for the vibes, the fashion was effortlessly cool and luxurious.
Marrakesh, Morocco: Silk, Linen and Earthy Tones
The fashion in Morocco was light and elegant. Many travelers would wear modest, flowing silk dresses accompanied with knit sweaters and linen sets to stay cool while out in the heat. Colorful and patterned head scarves were styled by everyone while spending the day in the desert. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes during day-time activities like a hot air balloon ride or atving through the dunes!
London, England: Denim Everywhere
London’s fashion scene is always ahead of the game, but one thing that stood out to me was the amount of denim people were wearing. Locals rocked oversized vintage Levi’s and denim-on-denim looks paired with chunky sneakers, leather jackets and blazers. The style here was very similar to New York street style.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Effortless Cool
Amsterdam locals mastered minimalism while still looking chic. Trousers, oversized sweaters, and classic trench coats were a big hit here. Almost everyone here was seen wearing Adidas Sambas and had large accessories like chunky scarves and large sunglasses.
Venice & Florence, Italy: Elegance
In both Venice and Florence, the style was a mix of sophistication and glamour. Since it was very cold when we visited, locals were bundled up in wool coats and cashmere scarves, but even when bundled up, they never skipped out on golden bangles, statement belts and authentic leather hand bags. Don’t forget to check out the true leather jackets here.
Prague, Czech Republic & Budapest, Hungary: European Street Style
Both Prague and Budapest had a street-style vibe. Puffer jackets, baggy jeans and stylish sneakers were the go-to choices, especially among younger crowds. Leather coats were also a huge hit here, mainly to keep warm during the freezing nights.
Tenerife, Spain: Beachy & Bohemian
As a warm-weather destination, Tenerife’s style was beachy and bohemian. Flowy dresses, crochet sets, statement jewelry and espadrilles sandals made for the perfect coastal-chic look. During the day, expect to live in your swimsuit and a big beach hat.
Packing & Travel Style
Each city has its own unique aesthetic, but the key to dressing well while traveling is to not be afraid to try new styles. European fashion is unlike any other, and embracing different trends makes the experience even more exciting.
Edited by Hana Razvi, Quinn Diedrich, Olivia Ruetten, & Safa Razvi
