Q & A

Subject: What can and can not be worn in France.

Question: I am told that women don't wear shorts or athletic type shoes, that slacks or skirts are the thing to wear. So is that true - no jeans and tennis shoes, or shorts - I don't want to stand out like a neon tourist, but I don't want to buy a whole new wardrobe if I don't need it. I am pretty much casual, but stylish for America.

Answer: Yours is the second or third question about what can and can not be worn in France. From my time in France, going on four years, I would say that the French dress very much like Americans, as our culture is everywhere. My wife wares shorts and athletic type shoes and I have seen other women doing the same. I would say, dress how you like and don’t worry about what others will think. As for not looking like a tourist, sorry but you will. I can’t really explain it but Americans are easy to spot, as are Germans and Italians, if you are looking.