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[weaselwoman13]

Went to the big study abroad orientation today, and I'm so worked up about it that I have begun to pack already. Going from what I've been able to pick up from all of the orientations, here are my ground rules for clothing

Comments

[flamingfairy]

They're suggesting you dress like a Mormon to avoid unwanted male attention in Spain? Duckieboots, it's not the western frontier full of sex-starved prospectors and cowboys. It's a fully-functioning, civilized country. Yes, I'm told by women friends that the men can be a bit fruity sometimes, but they're not going to pounce on you the moment you set foot outside the door.

The best way to avoid attention of any kind anywhere is to look like you know where you're going and to step manfully (or womanfully) forward with assertion in every step, neither looking to your left or right but straight on. This is what Quentin Crisp taught me and whenever I feel afraid or unsure, this is exactly what I do.

[weaselwoman13]

No, they (and not just the office of study abroad, but also tourism websites I've looked at) are saying that people dress a bit nicer and a bit more conservatively in Spain and if you wear bright, garish colors, openly American sweatshirts, and miniskirts, you're going to be earmarked as a rich American and paid extra attention to by pickpockets and dudes. I'm not under the impression that I'm visiting some kind of anarchistic wasteland or anything but I DO want to make some kind of effort to blend in with the locals and keep a low profile!

[flamingfairy]

Last time I was in Spain (2006), they wore pretty much the uniform of all Europeans - The Gap, Uni Qlo, sportswear, trainers, jeans etc. I really wouldn't worry too much about the way you look. I've seen your pictures and I reckon you'll be fine without having to make any extra effort.

[weaselwoman13]

OK, I won't freak out so much about dress then...they must be exaggerating it / assuming everyone is a slob for the sake of the orientation (I don't go out of the house in pajama pants and don't own any non-fitted sweatshirts so I guess I don't dress "like an American"). I will still try to look my nicest though! ;)