How my style changed since living abroad
One thing I don’t see a lot of digital nomads talk about is border runs and how exhausting they can get after traveling for months.
It’s exciting and exhilarating to see new countries back to back. But after a while, you start realizing how different this lifestyle really is. As someone who loves fashion and is from NYC, I’ve always loved having options the shoes, the accessories, the outfits, the full look. Before traveling, the look always mattered first.
Now, I dress for comfort, movement, and functionality. I still care about style, but I care more about whether something can actually last. I look at fabric differently. I think about quality more. When you’re constantly moving, every piece in your bag has to earn its place.
I can’t just order something new on Amazon whenever I want. I can’t bring every pair of shoes, every purse, or every “just in case” outfit. So now, before I buy or pack something, I ask myself:
Can this go on the journey with me?
That question has changed the way I shop, dress, and value my clothes.
Fashion still matters to me, but now it has to make sense for the life I’m actually living.
Living abroad truly reshaped not just my wardrobe but also how I perceive and value my clothing. Before my travels, I prioritized aesthetics—color, cut, and trendiness were my main factors. However, months on the move taught me that practicality must come first. The constant packing, unpacking, and adapting to different climates forced me to rethink every piece I owned. For instance, I now look for fabrics that not only feel good but also resist wrinkles and dry quickly. Merino wool and bamboo blends have become my favorites as they are lightweight yet warm, odor-resistant, and easy to wash on the go. Quality craftsmanship matters more because a well-made garment lasts longer, which is essential when shopping opportunities are limited. Shoes are another area where function trumps fashion. Instead of bringing multiple styles, I invest in versatile shoes that can transition from casual sightseeing to a dinner out. Comfort has become a priority; painful feet can ruin an entire trip! This lifestyle also changed how I shop and pack. I became more intentional: before buying, I ask myself, "Can this piece go on the journey with me?" If the answer is no, I skip it. This has helped reduce impulse purchases and build a capsule wardrobe adapted to my life abroad. Moreover, living in different countries exposed me to diverse fashion cultures that influenced my style subtly. I’ve learned to blend comfort with local sensibilities while retaining elements of my NYC roots. The result is a personal style that is authentic, versatile, and sustainable. Ultimately, embracing a function-first wardrobe hasn’t meant sacrificing style—it’s about redefining what style means to me in a new context. For anyone considering long-term travel or living abroad, I recommend focusing on durability, comfort, and adaptability when choosing clothes. It truly makes life on the move more enjoyable and stylishly smart.
