i guess i don't really care enuff to give a hoot about what people think cuz people base us on politics anyways, when it comes to "who/what the US is about" it's not about what we "wear"....i dress appropriately for where i'm going and what i'm doing.. but most of the time, i dress comfortably for the area and climate because i'm really far away from home and can't just dip in my closet or go shopping for new clothes.
based on my experience... europeans don't look at you any less based on what you wear, again, it's all politics and attitude now a days...everyone is starting to give a crap about "the ugly american" and that has everything to do with attitude and personality, while in a country NOT your own (ie: learn some of the language!)...
that article talks about going to some of the really expensive restaurants and yea, of course, your gonna want to dress appropriately for that..but you won't see me spending over $100 on any meal, currency conversion or not. you don't have to go to an expensive restaurant to get the best food, it's ALL over the place over there...
essentially, that article is just saying "pack more stuff, take more luggage"...heck, if your not planning to go out and eat *fancy*, then why bring the clothes for it?
eh, just my thinkin'
