How to Dress Like the Portuguese

 

By Terrence Richardson

When travelling to Portugal, you’ll want to blend in with the locals as much as possible. That’s going to require you to dress like the Portuguese. If you’ve never travelled to the country before, it can be challenging to know what to wear and what not to wear. Consider this your own personal style guide so you can focus less on your wardrobe and more on what you’re seeing and experiencing in Portugal.
Modern Portugal is much like other parts of the Western World. People follow fashion trends and take great care to choose fabrics and styles that fit well, flatter, and last a long time. Shopping for apparel is very important to Portuguese people. In fact, many of them save money to take vacations where they can purchase the things that they want inexpensively.

Here’s what you should wear if you’re male:

• Suit Jackets or Sports Coats
• Ties
• Jeans
• Dress Shirts
• Shorts
• T-Shirts

Here’s what you should wear if you’re female:

• Dresses
• Suits
• Pantsuits
• Blouses
• Jeans
• Shorts
• T-Shirts
• Pashmina Shawl (for covering legs and shoulders when entering a religious site)

Don’t forget comfortable footwear. This is especially important if you plan to get around the city by foot. Walking in a new pair of shoes is a recipe for disaster. You’ll have blisters before you know it and this will significantly impede the place you go and the things you do.

A good sunscreen and hat are ideal as well. The sun can be brutal in Portugal. Having protection for your skin will prevent heatstroke and sunburn. If you’re going to the beach, it doesn’t hurt to wear a cover-up and carry extra water as well. It’s the perfect accessory for warmer climates because it quenches your thirst and keeps you hydrated.

If you travel from November to March, you may experience rainy weather. Keep a raincoat and umbrella with you so that you can go sightseeing easily. A poncho can be folded up and placed in a pocket or bag. Some are even compact enough to store in the umbrella sleeve for easy access. Getting caught in a downpour when dressed nicely is the last thing you want to do.

Note what other people are wearing in Portugal and then adjust your wardrobe accordingly. Although it’s very easy to spot a tourist in any foreign country, you don’t have to make it that obvious. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and flashing around your camera or cell phone.

Even after careful research, you could travel to an area of Portugal where security is lax. It’s best to be prepared by blending in with the locals. Don’t carry oversized bags or waist packs. Make sure your money and credit cards are safely kept in a place where they won’t be taken from you.

Dressing like the Portuguese is easier than you think. Refer to magazines and online fashion websites for inspiration. Don’t forget to pack the necessities when travelling to Portugal. Make sure that you have sunscreen, a good hat, and comfortable shoes. They’re essentials if you want to have an enjoyable time in Portugal.

 About the AuthorTerrance Richardson is a keen writer, explorer and musician. He is particularly interested in music in different cultures but is also a big food lover.

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4 responses to “How to Dress Like the Portuguese

  1. Thanks very much for sharing! I have seen visitors from the US and Central Europe who really ignored every rule of decency in Portugal.

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