No matter what you think about Germans, one fact remains: they're actually fashionable. They have a distinct sense of style, far from the nonchalant energy of the French or the ostentatious glamour of the Italians. Germans already have an air about them, cultivated by their tumultuous history and generally stoic demeanor. But when they put their style A-game on, it's all over for the rest of the world. If you want to dress up as cool and as chic as the Germans, you'll need to fill your wardrobe with their style staples. You'd be surprised at how simple they can be!
Black Basics
You know the stereotype that Germans are upright, uptight, and stoic, right? That no matter how hard you adhere to their
social customs, it's still difficult to make friends with them? Well, although that's not necessarily true, you can say that when it comes to dressing up, these stereotypes apply. More often than not, Germans aren't as fussy when it comes to their clothes. They embrace minimalism more so than any other style, and most of the time, black is all they need. In fact, an all-black outfit may even have more of an impact on them than a colorful ensemble. So as long as you have anything black in your closet, you're good to go!
A Tailored Suit
Delving deeper into the Germans’ conservative and minimalist way of dressing, a must-have style staple they always rely on is a tailored suit. Of course, you'll need it to go to work anyway so you should already have at least one in your wardrobe. More than aesthetic purposes, a suit is a must when it comes to
German business etiquette. It's the best sartorial weapon professionals have to further their careers and get ahead. And by tailored, this means it has to fit you to perfections. Whether within corporate settings or outside on the street, a well-fitted suit goes a long way with the Germans.
White Shirt
Let's go back to minimalism for a bit. What's is a timeless piece that evokes simplicity but also class, cleanliness, and a little bit of sex appeal? A white shirt! Pairing a white shirt with anything is a surefire way to look stylish in front of the Germans. This singular garment, which is also a
Parisian fashion staple, highlights conservatism and versatility in the style game. Pair it with denim jeans and you have a comfy yet classy streetwear outfit. Pair it with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt and it works well in corporate settings. And if you pair it with a long gown, it makes for a chic evening look too!
Fitted Denim Jeans
Speaking of jeans, this is yet another style staple that Germans have in their closet. Well, it's sort of unfair to say that denim jeans are exclusive to Germany. After all, this is the most universally worn garment around the world. No matter where you are, you will see people wearing jeans. But what makes it such an important fashion mainstay among the Germans? Simply because it's a sturdy piece. A nice pair of denim jeans are timeless, not just that it's a classic piece, but also because it's one that can stand the test of time. You can leave a pair in your closet for years but when you put it on again, you'll still look good in them!
A Pair of Sneakers
If there's one German stereotype that has always run true, it's the fact they're mostly pragmatic. Germans aren't ones to beat around the bush. More often than not, they're pretty straightforward in life, even with how they dress. And out of all the types of footwear out there, aren't sneakers the most pragmatic of all? They're trendy yet timeless and sturdy enough to stand the test of time like a quality pair of jeans. Since streetwear has exploded in the fashion scene, especially in the country's creative hub, Berlin, a cool pair of kicks have since been a must-have for fashion-loving Germans. Just don't wear them to work. That's taboo!
Statement Sweaters
Continuing with the Germans' pragmatic way of dressing, doesn't a piece that's both functional and fashionable fit their standards? A simple, easy-to-wear garment that can leave a statement yet serve its purpose at the same time! And in a cold country like Germany, that can mean a statement sweater. Although neutral knitwear is all the rage here, colorful jumpers and logomania sweaters have since become the more stylish option. Sure, they're louder than a white shirt, a black ensemble, or a tailored suit, but not only will they keep you warm, but they'll also show off your style A-game!
Leather Outerwear
Now, here's something that has a slightly politically incorrect origin but remains a mainstay in German fashion nonetheless: leather outerwear. From London punk-esque jackets to strict and slightly fetishistic trench coats, leather-made outerwear has been one of, if not the chicest staple ina. German's sartorial repertoire. Its origins, unfortunately, date back to the Second World War, where Nazi soldiers famously wore well-tailored leather to assert their dominance. Luckily, their mindset is long gone but their style remains influential, albeit controversial. Nevertheless, the way Germans rock leather today is far from the imposing style of the past. They work leather in a more fun and chich way now!
You might not realize it yet but Germans actually are some of the most fashionable people out there. They have a look that's all their own and if you want to cop it, you'll need to include some of these style staples into your wardrobe.
Of course, you'll need a big closet or ample space to hold all your German fashion staples. A
luxury home would work wonders for it, no?
