Work these killer outfits, inspired by global fashion capitals

Photo: Showbit

Nailing the perfect #OOTD-worthy outfit during your vacation is, arguably, the toughest part of any holiday trip. After all, it’s hardly a breeze trying to look stylish (as opposed to sloppy, or worse, mismatched) with a limited array of pieces from your luggage.

What’s more, every culture has its own distinct fashion flair, so if you’re not careful, you’ll come off looking impossibly out of place and stick out like a sore thumb. Not to worry, we have some suggestions that will make you look like you fit right in. And even if you’re not hopping onto a plane and making your escape to somewhere exotic this year, there’s no harm still dressing the part.

Here are our edits on how you can embrace various unique fashion cultures with these outfits inspired by different cities. From Seoul to Tokyo to Casablanca, we guarantee you’ll feel just like the locals in no time.

Tokyo, Japan

Mention Japanese fashion and what comes to mind is usually the quirky and colourful over-the-top street fashion seen in the Harajuku district of Tokyo. While this fashion subculture is still thriving, you might want to go for a trend that is more accessible and equally popular — minimalist fashion. Seen as a form of expression for a simple and zen lifestyle, pieces are pared-down and basic, but not lacking in style and comfort.

Go for something in white, camel, or military green. Leave off the fancy details like prints and textures. It’s all about being low-key, with garments that are “icons” rather than trend-based pieces. Think: Cashmere sweaters and simple wool coats.

Shop the look:

Cashmere sweater by Joseph, £235 ($423), via Net-a-Porter

Long knit cardigan by Zara, $139

Denim straight jeans by H&M Studio, $109

Leather sneakers by Common Projects, US$455 ($621), via Ssense

Leather tote bag by COS, US$225 ($307)

Seoul, South Korea

We cannot deny that K-pop has played a huge role in changing the spectrum and dynamics of K-fashion. South Korea’s fashion is now widely seen as expressive and unique, ranging from the feminine to the refined, and the quirky to sporty. The inspiration for this look, for instance, was drawn from K-pop girl group, BLACKPINK. Their on-stage style is a mix of fun, offbeat, girly, athleisure and sometimes, luxe. Don’t be afraid to clash colours and prints — here, we have combined leopard prints, colour-blocking and sequins together. It’s all about being experimental with your wardrobe.

Shop the look:

Sequinned midi dress by Rixo London, £395 ($711), via Net-a-Porter

Leopard print coat by Topshop, $249

Crossbody bag by H&M, $24.95

Leather heeled boots by Topshop, $169

Prince of Whales check bustier by Fleur du Mal, £285 ($513), via Net-a-Porter

Paris, France

Think of Paris and you might be tempted to don a beret for a seemingly jaunty Parisian flair. Skip that. But for the occasional bad hair day, French girls would much rather flaunt their windblown tresses. Don’t go too OTT with your outfit either — contrary to what you think or see in the movies, French girls never overthink it when putting a look together. Think classic chic with a touch of effortless. A turtleneck pullover with a pair of casual jeans, a black coat and some sneakers will suffice.

Shop the look:

Cashmere turtleneck pullover by COS, US$225 ($307)

Denim skinny jeans by Zara, $69.90

Cashmere wool coat by Totême, €680 ($1,093)

Black sneakers by Superga, $69.90

Crossbody bag by A.P.C., €420 ($675)

London, United Kingdom

British girls are cool and unconventional, bold and fun. Just look at style stars such as Alexa Chung and Cara Delevingne — there’s always an intriguing tinge of femininity with their tough and boyish outfits. Try a printed black t-shirt and a plaid skirt. Add a dose of masculinity by pairing it with a checkered wool blazer. Round it up with some spunky chunky boots.

Shop the look:

Printed t-shirt by H&M, $17.95

Plaid skirt by Zara, $99.90

Over-the-knee socks by Gipsy, $14.39, via ASOS

Leather booties by Topshop, S$179

Double breasted blazer by A.L.C., $1,183, via Farfetch

Leather crossbody bag by Marni, $905, via Farfetch

Casablanca, Morocco

Since Morocco is a religious country, it’s best to be more respectful and conservative when it comes to your style choices. Go with a long-sleeve maxi dress that’s lightweight. Accentuate your waistline with a chocolate brown leather belt. Bring along a silk scarf and tie it into a fashionable turban around your head. If you’re visiting The Sahara, slip on a pair of flat sandals for easier commute.

Shop the look:

Maxi dress by Zara, $139

Flat buckle sandals by Charles & Keith, $49.90

Suede belt by FRAME, £230 ($414), via Net-a-Porter

Printed silk-blend scarf by Bimba & Lola, $125

Straw basket (to be carried as a bag) by Ikea, $14.90

Aviator sunglasses by Loewe, £290 ($522), via Net-a-Porter

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