Rules of the Game
Fashion can be tricky to understand, from all the do’s and don’ts to supposed fashion crimes—you don’t want to end up on the wrong end of the stick. However, in some countries, the styles are pre-determined, and this can be a bit of a downer. Meanwhile, other countries are celebrated for how far they take their look game.
1. North Korea
North Korea is one of the strictest authoritarian regimes in the world. Did you know the people who live there are not allowed to leave, as the border is guarded to prevent citizens from escaping? The country is so strict that they have a list of pre-approved hairstyles that men and women must choose from. Even your job and where you live are pre-decided by the government, which means it is no surprise that there are strict dress codes and a ban on Western-style clothing.
2. Eswatini
Eswatini is a country in Africa that has pretty much simplified what women are allowed to wear. The options are either long dresses or long skirts. This is because both pants and miniskirts are banned. While there are some rules for men, you’ll find the majority of these restrictions just like putting women in boxes.
3. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is well-known for its strict treatment of women and its old-fashioned rules. Only in 2018 were women permitted to drive in this country. Showing skin is considered a criminal act, and similarly, men who dress in traditionally female clothes or wear makeup are also punished.
4. Meteora, Greece
This region in Greece has the same rules as many other religious sites, which means that there is a strict dress code meant to exude respect for the cultural sites and heritage within the area. Since Meteora is full of monasteries, women and men are expected to dress modestly and cover their arms and legs.
5. Sudan
Sudan takes their dress code very seriously, and women in the past have faced arrests for breaking the strict Sharia laws. For women, this means they cannot wear skirts or even Western-style slacks. Jeans are probably a no-go either. On the other hand, for men, makeup is strictly forbidden.
6. St. Lucia, Trinidad
There are a surprising number of countries in the world that forbid camouflage. Luckily, it isn’t for any adverse or strict reason. It is simply because camouflage is associated with the military and is hence reserved for them. To avoid confusion, no one aside from military personnel is allowed to wear the pattern.
7. France
France took things the other way around by banning some of the strictest dress codes and fashion choices out there. For instance, instead of forcing people to wear burqas, they outright banned them. In fact, no face-covering garments are allowed in the country as they pose a security risk. This includes helmets and hoods as well.
8. The Maldives
This vacation destination is a must-visit for many. With the allure of the beaches and the fantastical stilted houses, there’s plenty to do. However, you can only wear Western-style bikinis in the private resorts meant for tourists. If you wanted to visit the local beaches in public areas, then you are expected to be covered up, as the Maldives is a Muslim country.
9. Uganda
Uganda is another conservative region that can be quite harsh on women who fail to follow their strict rules. Skirts that go above the knee are prohibited, and even tourists must avoid wearing such garments. Anyone who fails to do so faces arrest.
10. Cinque Terre, Italy
This rule is a little bit more relaxed and is meant to increase safety rather than force people to acclimate to dress codes. The rule is simply that people visiting hills and vineyards in the area cannot wear heels, sandals, or flip-flops in order to avoid accidents. If you’re caught wearing these types of shoes, you can expect a fine.
Now that we have discussed some of the strictest dress codes out there, here are 10 countries that keep things relaxed and actually push for fashion innovations.
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo has quickly risen to the forefront of fashion, no doubt thanks to its blend of futurism, pop culture, and traditional wear. Depending on where you go, you can expect to find bold styles inspired by Harajuku culture, Lolita looks, and Gyaru influences. Of course, the more traditional parts keep up with kimonos and geta sandals.
2. New York, United States
Since New York has always been a melting pot of many different cultures, the fashion has become an eccentric blend of casual streetwear and luxury showstoppers. Some of the biggest brands in the world, from Ralph Lauren to Calvin Klein, have found their footing in New York, which continues to be a hub for urban style.
3. Milan, Italy
If you prefer luxurious looks to streetwear, then Milan will have you feeling quite underdressed. Known for its impeccable tailoring and high-end leather, many top brands, from Gucci to Prada, originate from Milan. You can find the finest fabrics here, and everyone is eager to show off their haute couture.
4. Paris, France
Most people think of Paris when they think of fashion, and they would be right to do so. After all, Paris is home to gold-standard brands from Dior to Chanel to Givenchy. With an emphasis on elegance and minimalism, Paris was the launching point for classic silhouettes and modern couture. Not to mention, Paris Fashion Week is quite the showstopper.
5. London, England
As another melting pot of many cultures, London has been home to a fusion of streetwear and avant-garde styles. Brands such as Alexander McQueen and Burberry got their start on the streets of London. Nowadays, you can find everything from punk-inspired fashion that’ll take you back to the ’80s to high-end tailored jackets and flawless dresses.
6. Seoul, North Korea
With the rise of K-pop and K-dramas, many Westerners are falling in love with the vibrancy and glamour of South Korea. Their street styles are quite unique, as locals opt for understated pieces, oversized fits, and layered outfits to create cutting-edge looks. Just one glance at a K-pop music video will leave you stunned.
7. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Despite the United Arab Emirates' reputation as quite a strict country, especially for fashionable women, Dubai has managed to escape these preconceptions. This is because Dubai has major Western influences and is home to many international residents. Due to this, it manages to blend Middle Eastern luxury with Western preferences, leading to opulent accessories and flowing fabrics. Nothing quite beats the iconic malls in Dubai.
8. Shanghai, China
China has quickly begun to rise in the fashion world as well, although it’s still mostly known for its great deals and affordable trends. In Shanghai specifically, an emphasis on urban street style has taken over. Of course, some still prefer to keep on the traditional qipaos and add a few contemporary touches.
9. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the perfect example of a city where modern fashion mixes with traditional craftsmanship, leading to a great East-meets-West hub. Just think of the opulence and glamour of the Ottoman Empire with their high-quality textiles, and now throw in some European and Asian influence, and you’ve basically described the boho scene in Istanbul.
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
If you prefer minimalistic fashions, then Copenhagen is the city for you. With an emphasis on neutral tones, sustainable materials, and clean silhouettes, this city has pushed Scandinavian designers into the limelight.
