Preparing
Go for tailored clothing. Munich is a posh, beautiful city. Tailored clothing seems to fit the scene perfectly. I felt chic in nicely cut clothing. European cut is different than American cut, especially in men's clothes. (notice the lovely fit the European men always wear?) Women travelers can pull that off too with a few key pieces -- slacks, not too long, comfy, stylish shoes (closed toe), white shirt, and a dark jean jacket, or leather jacket that you can tie around your waist when the sun shines (you will see many of the locals doing the same) Forget the jewelry, super high heels, (lots of cobblestone streets -- no fun for the Prada's) Dressing great is part of the enjoyment of being on a city bound vacation. Think chic!
Angela, Houston, USA
No bright clothes and no white tennis shoes is a good rule to follow when packing for Germany. Consider a dark blazer with blouses and sweaters, dark slacks and shoes, dark long comfortable skirt to go with all of above. Add extra comfortable walking shoes, mid-calf length raincoat and small umbrella. Layering is very important due to several temperature variations in the same day. Consider the business woman's approach -- definitely not grunge. Leave that to the very young kids. Look classy.
Shari, Hamilton, Canada
I lived in Germany for 10 years, and I travel there every year. My advice, simple is better. Jeans or casual pants and t-shirt or blouse, with dark shoes is fine for shopping or sightseeing. Not too many women wear short skirts or shorts, unless they are going to a club, but even then it is not that common. Some dark pants with a "hip" top might be a better choice for a club. Keep in mind, that most fashionable clubs and restaurants have doormen who will not let you in unless they like the way that you look. What I do is pack the necessary things, and then go shopping there for fashionable things that I like. Avoid the touristy areas for shopping though! Even if you just walk a few blocks away from the tourist areas, you will find much better deals. Don't worry, in large cities, most people in stores speak English.
Michelle, San Francisco, USA
I lived in Germany for four months, travelling extensively in the neighboring countries. Simple is always best. Plain, muted, solid colors fit in well anywhere and prevent you from looking like a dorky American on vacation.
Anne, Pasadena, USA
Here in Munich, we tend to easily identify (North American) tourists by their white gym shoes. These shoes might be very comfortable for travelling but if you do not want to stand out from the crowd please keep them in darker colours! Be aware that there are informal restrictions for entering some restaurants, music clubs, etc with sneakers.
Karin, Munich, Germany