The Type Of Clothing Tourists May Not Want To Pack For A Trip To This Iconic Australian City

Australia is known for its spectacular beaches. But if you're planning a trip to Sydney, you may want to avoid stuffing your suitcase with flip-flops, board shorts, and beachy mumus. While Australia is known for its laid-back vibes, locals in Sydney tend to dress with style and polish. So with a little bit of planning, you can avoid looking like a tourist without overpacking.

Dressing for a day at the beach while out and about in the city is a no-no. Leave the too-casual beach bum clothes at home, and instead opt for something a little more high-brow. You'll want to avoid tight, restrictive clothing — breathable is better, because the weather can get super hot during the summer. Some swankier places also enforce a dress code, which could ban clothing like singlets, sportswear, track pants, or flip-flops.

Sydney is a great Australian spot for a warm-weather winter vacation, but you won't get away with just shorts and a tank. You should also avoid heavy winter coats and bulky sweaters. The winters are mild (which for those on the Western hemisphere, Australia's winter is from June to August), with temperatures ranging from the high 40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit, so it's all about layering for comfort. Dressing in layers lets you go from the warmer days to cooler evenings easily — plus, layers add an extra touch of style to your look.

Local fashion in Sydney is smart-casual — but don't shy away from bold prints or colors. Fashionistas say the summer months call for dressy or tailored shorts and slacks with chic tops, polos, button-down shirts, or fitted tees. Linen is your friend since it's so breathable. Fashionable, relaxed jeans and lightweight dresses are also popular casual wear. Stylish sandals, sneakers, boots, or wedges are great for the day, and high heels and dressier shoes are all the rage for nights out. Choose mix-and-match classic pieces, which will allow you to sport different looks without overpacking.

Of course, there are plenty of hidden-gem destinations to add to your Australian itinerary, so plan your wardrobe around the activities you'll be focusing on. A key strategy is to have one dressier outfit for going out and something smart but comfortable for excursions — think a classic white tee and tailored shorts with supportive shoes if you'll be doing a lot of walking. You can't go wrong with a stylish Timberland waterproof boot for hiking.

And of course, don't forget some upscale swimwear for the beaches. The sun is intense in Australia, so rashguards (like this LAFROI UPF 50+ base layer) and fashionable coverups can protect you from burns.