Fashion in Freiburg: Did I Pack the Right Clothes?

I want to start off this blog post by saying that fashion is subjective, and while there are general trends in what is popular and acceptable, you should feel free to express yourself uniquely through clothing! In the end, fashion is about how you want to present yourself to the world, and it is often deeply connected to cultural and personal values.

A few weeks ago, when I was packing my suitcase to study abroad in Freiburg, I faced a major dilemma. I would describe my style as “elevated loungewear”. You’ll often see me in a hoodie and leggings, which in the U.S. would warrant no second glances or odd stares. But I knew (from past students who had studied abroad and from a rapid Google Search) that Europeans typically “dress better” than people from the U.S. What did that mean for my wardrobe? I didn’t want to stand out as a foreigner or be perceived as unprofessional because of my clothes. Still, I couldn’t afford to simply go out and buy a completely new wardrobe. My solution was to ruthlessly cull my closet and only pack my best items. Sweatpants, oversized T-shirts, and hoodies with college emblems would not make the cut.

Alas, I was still unprepared for the fashion scene in a German university city. I had entered the unfamiliar world of trenchcoats, slacks, sensible knits, cardigans, and straight-leg jeans, and I felt uncomfortably out of place. I could feel the stares from the locals in Freiburg as our American group passed by in our obviously American outfits (although speaking loudly in English probably gave us away first.) I don’t feel threatened or unwelcome, but there’s a part of me that wishes I had done more research to better assimilate into pop culture here in Freiburg. For anyone planning to study abroad in Freiburg in the future, I have assembled a few tips based on my own observations that may elevate your wardrobe and help you blend in.

1. Active wear is only for the gym

There are a few exceptions to this rule, including wide-leg sweatpants that resemble slacks more than joggers. Hiking pants are also generally acceptable, because many people here in Freiburg appreciate nature and enjoy hiking in the Schwarzwald on evenings and weekends. You’ll also see hiking shoes worn throughout the streets of Freiburg. However, leggings and sweatpants are a big no-no for everyday streetwear! Instead, trade your activewear for jeans, slacks, or linens.

2. Dress for the season, not necessarily the weather

I arrived in Freiburg during the last week of February, and the weather was unusually beautiful that week. Sunny, blue skies, and highs around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Whenever the Northeastern U.S. is graced with a 70 degree day in early spring, we experience a kind of Vitamin-D scarcity craze. Everyone pulls out their summer clothing, trades hats and jackets for shorts and T-shirts, and runs around soaking up the sun like there is no tomorrow.

One day I walked with a few friends to the Seepark in Freiburg, wearing shorts and a short sleeve shirt. To our surprise, almost everyone around us was still bundled up in their winter jackets, and looking at us like we just dropped from Mars. I guess it makes sense: it won’t really be spring in Freiburg for another few weeks, and it’s not practical to bring out your lighter clothes before it’s predictably warm outside. Even though I might be sweating through the layers, from now on I’ll be wearing my jacket to blend in with the crowd.

3. When in doubt, wear black

Of course, people do wear color in Freiburg. I have seen many brightly colored, unique pieces, especially worn by university students who have a more alternative/vintage style. However, if your goal is blending in and looking classy, you will never get a strange look for wearing a muted, neutral palette. Think black jeans or slacks, a cream or gray sweater, and a simple jacket to top it off.

4. Your water bottle is not an accessory

This is my final tip, and a dead giveaway of Americans. You do not need to have your Stanley, Hydroflask, or Owala on display at all times. Yes, water usually costs money in German restaurants, and staying hydrated is crucial. However, if you have a backpack or purse on hand, consider stowing your water bottle away. Very few people in Germany carry a water bottle throughout the day, let alone a 40 oz bright pink Stanley. 

I hope you all enjoyed my fashion tips and feel more confident about packing for your study abroad! Once again, these are purely my observations, and I would also recommend doing your own research beforehand, no matter where your destination is.