China by Dainis Matisons, on Flickr
China used to be a traditional, conservative country that held conformity in high regards. While tradition and uniting with some sort of group, even if it’s just family, are still valued in China, younger generations have become much more fascinated with Western culture.
Today, Western trends are just as popular in China as the are in the United States and Europe. If you’re wondering what to wear when you study abroad in China, you shouldn’t have to look much farther than your own closet. Chinese culture still differs slightly from Western culture when it comes to style, so take a look at these tips on fashion before traveling to China.
1. Bikinis are Rare
If you are traveling to the coast in China, don’t expect to see females dressed in cute bikinis. Two-piece swimming suits are rarely worn in China, so it might be safest for you to invest in a one-piece. The young women who wear bikinis can expect to receive more attention than those who don’t. Anyone over 30 can forget about wearing a two-piece in China; older females always wear one-piece swimming suits, and most of the time these suits are very conservative.
Traditional Chinese Fashion by Dainis Matisons, on Flickr
2. Wear Red for Luck
Red is a popular color in China; it is believed to symbolize good fortune. If you plan on going to any Chinese festivals during your time studying abroad in China, wear something red. Bright colors are also commonly worn at festivals or ceremonies in China. Spring Festival, which usually falls in January or February, is one holiday during which bright colors are always prevalent. If you’re traveling to China during that time, make sure you bring a nice, brightly colored coat!
3. Don’t Pack Flip-Flops
Flip-flops or sandals without straps are usually seen as cheap in China. Apart from not being stylish, flip-flops are a pain to walk around in. You will probably be doing a lot of walking if you visit China, especially if you see the Great Wall. Keep in mind that the streets and sidewalks in China are often crowded and not the cleanest, so wearing closed-toed sandals or shoes is better for your safety as well. Plan on bringing a comfortable tennis shoes for getting around town during the day and a nice pair of shoes for going out in the evening.
4. American Styles are In
Unless you are studying or volunteering abroad in a rural or traditional part of China, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about what you wear. Casual, Western styles are popular in China. American styles and brands have been popular in China for the past few years, so don’t worry about avoiding clothes with logos. China is a very fashion-forward country, so you probably won’t offend anyone by dressing unconventionally. But keep in mind that your clothes say a lot about you, so what you wear should reflect how you want to be seen.
5. Lean Toward Conservative Clothing
While Chinese fashion is very similar to Western styles, showing too much skin is frowned upon. Shirts that are low-cut or leave shoulders and backs mostly bare should be avoided. Similarly, it’d be safe not to wear incredibly short dresses, skirts or shorts. Sweat pants should also be avoided as casual street wear.
Have you been to China? Share your fashion knowledge with us in the comments below!
**This post is brought to you in part by this month’s GoAbroad Blog partner,KCP International! Looking to study and improve your Japanese abroad? Be sure to check out KCP’s programs in Tokyo!
