Monaco may be one of the smallest city-states in the world, but don’t let its size fool you; this microstate has built up a reputation as being one of the most fashion savvy places on the globe. So, before heading out to this Mediterranean hot spot, I made sure to think carefully about what exactly I was putting into my suitcase.
The pristine, white beaches and tourist filled sidewalks of Monaco are swarming with celebrities, designers, and billionaires. Safe to say I didn’t want to make a fool out of myself by dressing like your typical tourist. Instead, I wanted to look like I actually belonged. But you don’t have to break the bank by shopping the high-end shops of Monaco. Simply shop the malls in your local area before making your luxurious gateway, and keep these tips in mind:
Accessorize. There’s a reason why Moroccan straw totes are the must have items in Monaco: accessories are essential in this country. Guys, you should consider citizen watches when breaking out your suits for a night out on the casino.
Skirt the issue. For you ladies having trouble thinking of that perfect outfit, then play it safe and go with your favorite skirt. It’s all about the skirt in Monaco, whether it’s mid-thigh, high crystal pleats and even calf length or longer. You’ll find a number of women walking the sidewalks of Monaco in long, white, cotton billowy skirts.
Think Bond … James Bond. Monaco’s classy casinos and scenic beauty served as the perfect backdrop for the Bond films Never Say Never Again and Goldeneye. So you guys out there should do your best Bond impersonation by dressing like the British spy himself. While this formal look is the way to go for the casinos, many other nightlife areas are toning the formal look down a bit. Be sure to bring your best J. Crew-esque outfits as you’ll want to achieve that unfussy, casual-luxe look for many Monaco hot spots.
Rediscover. When dressing to impress, many people dress in a formulaic kind of manner. Instead, play with different proportions when preparing for Monaco, and don’t be afraid to try something new, or rediscover things buried deep within the closet.
While your shopping in Monaco may be limited to just window shopping, browsing through the luxurious shops is still a fun experience. Monaco is well known for its shops that showcase one particular piece in the window, whether it be a necklace or shoe, and neglecting to tell the on looking admirers the outrageous price. After an afternoon of window browsing and thinking “if only,” indulge in the high life and take part in a local favorite: caviar. Eating around the city is expensive and this is definitely no expectation as these black pearls are caught fresh daily from the nearby sea.
Monaco is definitely a city-state of luxury, there’s no question about it. When visiting this high class microstate, you’ll be rubbing elbows with some of the world’s richest, but that doesn’t mean that you should go broke trying to look like a million dollars. Just shop your own area and keep local Monaco fashion and customs in mind before hand, and you’ll be sure to fit right in.
Author bio: Written by Alexa Thomas.