Hello New to CC-
This may seem like a silly question but looking for any Tips & Packing Suggestions from both students & parents of Hamilton Jan’s attending Arcadia Univ (London Ctre)? Our son will be leaving in 4 weeks and would value others experiences and advice. Specifically attire. Americans in general are far less formal in our manner of dress, even more so on the West Coast. However, it seems Londoners adhere to a ‘Smart Casual’ dress code. As a college student studying in London for 3.5mos does our son need to pack at least 1 suit? Plus, any ‘don’t forget’ items input appreciated. Thanks!
@Nubeginnings, I sent you a PM
I don’t know that young people in London dress any more formally or even more stylishly than young Americans do, though they do dress somewhat differently. Not many baseball caps, hoodies, shorts, t-shirts with things printed on them, or khakis. Somewhat darker and more muted colors. And like many other Europeans, Londoners tend to have fewer items of clothing, but they seem to prefer sturdy, well-made clothing that lasts a long time, and they don’t mind having a well-worn look, even in a suit. Sturdy shoes, too, though you also see young people wearing good athletic shoes these days.
The thing about London, though, is it’s a very international city. There are lots of students and other young people from other EU countries there, as well as Americans, Canadians, Australians, and people from various African, Caribbean, Latin American, and Asian nations. They don’t all dress alike, and no one expects them to. So I wouldn’t worry about it too much. Plus they do have clothing stores there, and if your son really feels a need to dress to fit in with the locals, the best way to do it to is buy a couple of locally made items.
As for must-have items, I’d say an umbrella and a rain jacket, though you can get very nice umbrellas there which might be more convenient than traveling with one. London actually gets less precipitation than New York, but as you get into November and December it gets pretty dark and dreary with lots of drizzly days.
“I don’t know that young people in London dress any more formally or even more stylishly than young Americans do, though they do dress somewhat differently.”
Agree. From seeing what my English nephews (several of whom live in London) wear, they’re not any more formal than Americans, they just wear a different type of tacky casual. None of them would ever be caught dead in a suit in college unless it was for a job interview, but they’re just normal Londoner college kids which might be different than whatever program your son is attending.
If you’re from sunny CA or an area that isn’t cold and rainy, the one thing your son may need to think about is shoes that are warmer and waterproof.
Thanks for your reply, he’s an extremely well traveled young man & we’ve decided just to throw in a Navy blazer for “just in case situations”. In regards to the weather were from the PNW, climate very similar to London so were well versed in rain! Everyone owns Gortex jackets, solid boots, and waterproof backpacks, however locals Never use umbrellas a sure sign that you’re a visitor.
Thanks so much for your input. We’ve decided just to throw a navy blazer in his bag for “just in case” situations. Otherwise in regards to rain gear, we’re well versed living in the PNW so no worries there.