Austrian Style: Clothing And Culture

Austrians tend to dress in a sophisticated, fairly conservative way. Revealing clothing is generally frowned upon, and the same goes for athletic wear, baseball caps, and pyjamas. Instead, opt for smart casual or smart business-oriented clothing, with dark, solid colours. For footwear, comfortable and stylish flat shoes are best – but definitely no sneakers.

Traditional Austrian clothing

The traditional Austrian outfit for women is called a "dirndl" – a close-fitting bodice and whole/knee-length black/blue skirt attached to a waist bang with gorgeously patterned material layering it on top. For men, the traditional outfit is "lederhosen" – a short or knee-length leather breech. These outfits are common to Bavarians and many other German-speaking nations.

However, it is uncommon to see Austrian men and women wearing these outfits except at the Tyrolean show and restaurants in Krems.

In general, Austrians tend to wear clothing that is quite formal and stylish. They opt for more solid colours such as black, maroon, navy blue, white and beige shades.

What to wear in Austria in summer

Austria is a stylish and sophisticated country, and its residents tend to dress in a fairly conservative and classy way. When in Austria, it's important to keep in mind that the country has a strong fashion sense, and dressing well is a part of the culture.

In summer, the weather in Austria is warm, with temperatures reaching the high 70s to 80s °F (high 20s to low 30s °C). It is a great time for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons. With this in mind, here is a guide on what to wear during the summer in Austria.

Clothing

For both men and women, it is important to opt for natural, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to keep cool. Polished t-shirts in neutral tones are perfect for casual, day-to-day outings. Linen button-downs are also a great option for a more refined look. Avoid wearing shorts, as Austrians tend to dress conservatively, and showing too much skin can be frowned upon. Instead, go for well-fitting pants or trousers.

For women, sundresses and blouses with skirts are common during the summer. Try to avoid showing too much cleavage, as the city can be quite conservative when it comes to revealing clothing. A lightweight, flowy dress made from breathable fabric will help you stay cool while respecting local customs.

For men, a light, button-down shirt with a pair of well-fitting pants is a good option. Collared shirts and chino pants are also suitable for slightly dressier occasions.

Footwear

When it comes to footwear, comfortable and stylish flat shoes are a must. Leather boots or stylish sneakers are ideal for the warmer months. Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes, as these are generally not seen as appropriate footwear in Europe. Instead, opt for a trendy pair of lightweight sneakers with ample support and a flexible outsole.

Accessories

While the summer days in Austria can be warm, the mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially by the water. Bring a light cardigan, sweater, or jacket for layering. A stylish scarf or pashmina can also be a useful accessory to have on hand. Don't forget to pack a small foldable umbrella, as summer thunderstorms can come out of nowhere!

In conclusion, when packing for summer in Austria, focus on classic, conservative pieces in neutral shades that can be easily mixed and matched. Opt for breathable fabrics to stay cool and comfortable. Prioritize comfortable and stylish footwear, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. By following these tips, you'll be able to dress like a local and enjoy your time in Austria to the fullest.

What to wear in Austria in winter

When packing for a winter trip to Austria, it's important to focus on warm, insulating layers to stay cosy and stylish. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to wear during the chilly season.

Clothing for Cities and Hanging Out

For a walk around the city or a casual hangout, it is advisable to carry a warm jacket, preferably in a dark colour. This is not only practical for the cold but also helpful in case someone bumps into you and spills your mulled wine! Pack one or two warm sweaters that can be layered over t-shirts. While Austrians tend to dress formally and stylishly, people in ski towns generally dress casually. Therefore, leggings and regular pants, along with a pair of t-shirts, should suffice. Don't forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep yourself warm.

Footwear

When it comes to footwear, comfort and style go hand in hand. Opt for waterproof boots that will keep your feet warm and dry while walking around the city or travelling to ski destinations. Running shoes might not be the best choice as they may not protect your feet from the cold and wet weather. If you plan to walk on icy surfaces, consider adding Yak traks or similar crampons to your footwear for better grip.

Accessories

A stylish pashmina or shawl is a must-pack item for women. Additionally, bring along a bathing suit if you plan to visit any spa areas, pools, or hot tubs at the hotels. Don't forget to pack sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun or snow.

Skincare

The cold, dry air can be harsh on your skin, so it's essential to pack skincare items such as moisturisers and lip balm.

Electronics

The cold weather can drain your electronic devices quickly, so investing in a high-quality spare battery pack is recommended.

Money

While most places in Austria accept card payments, some Christmas markets and small restaurants only take cash, so it's a good idea to carry some with you.

What shoes to wear in Austria

When packing shoes for a trip to Austria, it's important to keep in mind that you'll likely be doing a lot of walking, so comfort and support are key. Here are some tips to help you choose the right footwear for your trip:

Prioritize Comfort and Support:

Austria is a very walkable country, with charming cities, scenic trails, and historic sites to explore. This means you'll be spending a significant amount of time on your feet, so it's crucial to choose comfortable and supportive shoes. Look for shoes with good cushioning, arch support, and flexible soles that can handle various terrains, including cobblestone streets.

Choose the Right Type of Shoe:

The type of shoe you bring will depend on the season and weather conditions during your visit. Here are some recommendations for different times of the year:

• Spring and Autumn: These seasons can be chilly, with the possibility of rain or even snow. Waterproof boots or ankle boots with good traction are ideal for dealing with unpredictable weather. Chelsea boots are a popular choice as they are both stylish and functional. You can also opt for comfortable sneakers or tennis shoes for walking around the city.
• Summer: During the warmer summer months, stylish sneakers or sandals are a good choice. However, avoid flip-flops as they may not provide enough support for extensive walking. If you plan to visit lakes or engage in watersports, don't forget to pack a pair of swimming shoes or water shoes.
• Winter: Austrian winters can be bitterly cold, so focus on packing warm and insulated footwear. Leather boots or snow boots with soft rubber soles are ideal for navigating slippery streets and dealing with snow and ice. Waterproof winter boots will keep your feet dry and warm.

Avoid Looking Like a Tourist:

If you want to blend in with the locals and avoid standing out as a tourist, there are a few shoe choices to avoid. Neon or brightly coloured running shoes or sneakers are commonly associated with tourists and may make you stand out. Instead, opt for more subtle and classic styles in neutral colours. Additionally, avoid open-toed shoes like sandals or flip-flops, especially in cities like Vienna, as they are generally not considered appropriate footwear in Europe.

Packing Tips:

When packing your shoes, consider bringing along a shoe horn to help you put on your shoes comfortably, especially if you're packing stiffer shoes like leather boots. Additionally, packing a shoe cleaning kit or travel-sized shoe care products can help you keep your shoes looking neat and tidy during your trip. If you plan to bring multiple pairs of shoes, using shoe bags or shoe cubes can help you organize your luggage and save space.

Clothing tips for men in Austria

What to Wear in Austria

Austrians tend to dress in a formal, stylish, and conservative way. If you want to blend in with the locals, avoid wearing anything too revealing. Dark and solid colours are generally more popular.

Shoes

Given that Austria's roads are paved, cobbled, and unpaved, comfortable and stylish flat shoes with thick soles and heels are ideal. Leather shoes or boots are a good choice. Avoid sneakers, sandals, and flip-flops, which are considered a fashion faux pas.

Luggage

Choose an understated travel backpack instead of a neon hiking bag or a suitcase, which will make you stand out as a tourist.

Clothing tips for men

Jeans are occasionally worn by younger Austrian men, but most other ages do not wear them. Instead, opt for smarter trousers or pants to fit in with the locals. Avoid t-shirts, baseball caps, and athletic wear, unless you are exercising.

Seasonal tips

In summer, try a light, button-down shirt with a pair of well-fitting trousers. A lightweight jacket or sweater and a light raincoat are also useful to have, as the summer evenings can be cool and there may be rain.

In autumn, layers are key. A collared shirt, earth-toned trousers, and a pullover wool sweater will help you blend in seamlessly.

Austrian winters are incredibly cold. Accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves will be on show, so choose stylish options. Inside, sweaters and turtlenecks are common.

In spring, it is still cold and rainy, so pack warmer layers. Trench coats, hats, and umbrellas will be needed. As the season progresses, you can start to incorporate brighter colours into your wardrobe.

Frequently asked questions