How to Blend In and Stand Out While Traveling Abroad
Embrace local culture on vacation, while still keeping your style aesthetic
There’s a fine line between being a welcomed traveler somewhere and being that tourist — the one who stands out for all the wrong reasons. At 1923 Main Street, we believe that travel can and should include elements of being unscripted and bold, while still being respectful to your local environment.
Yes, you and your style can be all three at once. Here’s how.
Six Ways to Strike the Perfect Balance of Local Respect and Personal Style
So how do you blend in with local culture while still standing out as yourself? Here are six ways to strike that perfect travel balance.
1. Know Before You Roam
Every culture and destination has its own unspoken sense of clothing, fashion and style. In fact, discovering these regional differences can have a positive impact your own personal style and regional styles have definitely impacted some of the top designers in the world.
So, it is worth doing a quick search on local expectations before you pack for a destination that may not be familiar to you. For example, in some places, sleeveless tops or shorts may be considered inappropriate. In others, looking too polished or wearing loud clothing might mark you as a tourist.
One way to look at it is that respect is always in style — and being thoughtful with your clothing choices shows that you are not just passing through, you are present. All of which will likely make your travel experience that much more genuine and enjoyable.
1923 Main Street Travel Tip: Our signature sweatshirts like the Unscripted Statement shirt offer understated coverage that transition easily from ruins to restaurant, all while keeping you comfortable and conscious.
2. Choose Neutral Palettes with a Punch
One way to stand out in style — without waving a big flag that screams "I'm not from here!" — is to wear versatile neutrals with a statement element. Think earth tones, navy, black or white layered with a graphic or message that says something about you, not to everyone around you.
Our Dare to Roam tee is a perfect example — soft, travel-ready cotton in a low-key color, with a message that speaks volumes without shouting or speaking to others.
3. Rethink the Logo Shout Outs
Unless you're hiking Everest or repping your favorite team at a game, there's no need to plaster yourself with oversized logos or loud branding. When it comes to tourist shirts, novelty hats and flag-waving gear, save them for your vacations closer to home, or airport selfies.
Instead, consider more subtle, thoughtful and meaningful graphics that hint at your traveler soul. Roam Freely. Wear Boldly. isn’t just a motto — it’s a mindset that lets you express your inner explorer without overwhelming the view.
In fact, we find that our gear like this actually sparks great conversations with locals and other travelers while on vacation. And isn’t interacting with your environment in a meaningful way what travel is really all about?
4. Layer Smart, Travel Light
Weather can be unpredictable at many destinations — and so can your itinerary (and that’s the fun of it). Always travel with layers that let you adapt on the go. A light hoodie like our Unscripted pullover gives you just enough warmth for that chilly café patio or breezy mountain hike — and its minimalist design blends effortlessly with both city scenes and rural escapes.
Layering isn’t just practical — it’s a way to stay stylish, too. Mix textures, lengths and cuts for a confident, yet context-aware look.
5. Touristy Accessories? Maybe Not
Fanny packs, passport lanyards and selfie sticks all have one thing in common: they scream “tourist target.”
And while we’re all for a great photo op, blending in means being well aware at all times. Great alternatives for style and safety include a sleek crossbody bag or a foldaway backpack. Definitely leave your flashy jewelry at home and let your vibe — not your valuables — do the talking.
6. Confidence is Quiet
The bottom line is: real style isn’t about standing out through extravagance — it’s about living your vacation like you belong everywhere, even when you’ve just arrived.
The confident traveler is curious, open-minded and unbothered. They may not know the language, but they respect it. They may not have a set plan, but they’re dressed for whatever happens next.
And that’s what 1923 Main Street is all about — traveling unscripted, with clothes that invite the journey to unfold naturally.
Roam Freely. Wear Boldly.
Roam freely … and thoughtfully.
No one needs to be loud to make a statement — especially when you’re a guest in someone else’s backyard. Style isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about how you show up. Be respectful. Be present. Be bold in your own quiet way.
At 1923 Main Street, we design for travelers who seek the story beyond the itinerary — those who roam not to escape, but to connect. So go ahead. Dare to Roam. Dress for Detours. And wherever you end up? Make sure your outfit says: I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.