Do you know your personal style? And has it ever changed based on the country you live in? Having lived in over 7 countries, I can confidently say that where you live definitely influences your style. As someone who writes about fashion regularly, I’ve noticed how different my style was in each country. Let me share some highlights.
The Netherlands (Amsterdam, Nijmegen)
I was born and raised in The Netherlands, where people are direct but relaxed and don’t like to show off. Society values equality, and it’s common to see millionaires driving simple cars instead of flashy ones. This mindset is reflected in their fashion. Big brands are rare, and about 13 years ago, major brands hardly had any shops in Amsterdam. The Dutch often say, “Act normal – That’s crazy enough,” which describes how I dressed too: safe, comfortable, and a bit fashionable.
Dutch style features:
– Comfortable clothing, like jeans and jumpers.
– Layered outfits due to the unpredictable weather, with tunics over trousers and lots of jackets.
– Practical accessories; for example, many women carry practical bags or little backpacks for biking.
– A focus on reliable, affordable clothing rather than brands.
Italy (Bologna)
I spent only 5 months in Bologna, Italy, but it was enough to fall in love with the country’s fashion culture. In Italy, fashion is hugely important, with all major brands present in every city. You naturally pick up the local style, which in Italy means dressing well. My style became much more fashionable and tailored there than it ever was in The Netherlands.
Italian style features:
– High-quality, tailored clothing.
– Fur is common in winter.
– Dressing to be seen, especially during the slow Sunday afternoon strolls through town.
– Adherence to the latest fashion trends with a preference for quality items.
Japan (Yokohama / Tokyo)
In Japan, being close to Tokyo meant that brand importance was significant. Shopping was a major activity, and just about every Japanese woman owns a Louis Vuitton bag, seen as a status symbol. To be part of accepted society, you need these brands. Although I adopted a dressy and fashionable style, I resisted buying a Vuitton bag.
Japanese style features:
– Major focus on designer brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
– Younger individuals often have quirky street style.
– Strict adherence to the latest trends.
Australia (Sydney)
I lived in Sydney for 7 years, and the laid-back Ozzy lifestyle shaped my fashion choices. High fashion is rare; comfort is key. There are a few trendy shops, but overall, casual dressing dominates. During my time there, I wore lots of t-shirts and baggy trousers.
Australian style features:
– Shorts or three-quarter pants for both men and women.
– Sneakers and other comfortable shoes.
– Minimal emphasis on brands or designer items.
China (Shanghai)
Shanghai has grown rapidly, and its shopping scene reflects that. Major brands are now common, but fashion isn’t as brand-centric as in Japan. Style is still evolving, and traditional dress like the qipao is popular. In China, you can be very creative with your style. I had custom boots, coats, and skirts made, all with a touch of Asian influence.
Chinese style features:
– A blend of western and Asian influences, with lots of silk.
– Creativity, with many people making or customizing their clothes.
– The prevalence of fake brands, making it hard to tell if someone’s Gucci bag is real or not.
Singapore
Having lived in Singapore for over 5 years, my style saw significant changes. Coming from the Netherlands and Australia, I had to step up my game in Singapore. People here are laid-back during the day but dress up for parties. I learned to be more ladylike, got nice handbags, and fabulous heels!
Singaporean style features:
– Fashion is important.
– Displaying wealth through clothes and accessories is common.
– All major brands are present, but unique boutiques are rarer.
– Work attire tends to be formal with suits and dresses.
To sum up, while some core elements of my style have remained the same (minimal, a bit of fun, asymmetry; fashionable but comfortable), I’ve found that each country influences your style a bit. Your environment plays a big role in shaping how you dress.
Have you ever lived in a different country? Did your style change?
