Here is a guide on what to wear in Turkey. These Türkiye packing tips are listed area by area and are written by locals to ensure you know what you can (and can not ) wear in Turkey.
Türkiye is a vast country with cultural differences as you travel across and up and down. This dress code in Turkey for tourists guide will help you decide what to wear in Türkiye. We have you covered, from the Blue Mosque’s strict dress codes to beaches (see what we did there!?).
From the sun-drenched beaches of the south to the cosmopolitan Turkish cities in the northwest and west, into the more conservative towns and cities of the south, and the very traditional areas in the east and southeast. Turkey is a country that will show you a million different traditions and trends wherever you go.
However, one thing many people get wrong is the dress code in Türkiye, especially at religious stops.
There are no strict rules for what you should and shouldn’t wear in Turkey. That’s something we should point out here. Türkiye isn’t as conservative a country as places like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, or Pakistan.
While making your packing list for Turkey, it’s essential to know that the dress code in Türkiye is generally relaxed, and you can mostly wear whatever you wish. However, if you choose to wear whatever you please, you will find that you might find yourself attracting unwanted attention in certain areas where that choice isn’t in keeping with what the local people are used to.
So, while you won’t offend anyone, you might end up being stared at or whispered about, which will not make you feel exceptionally comfortable.
To further complicate matters, the general dress guidance varies depending on where you’ll travel in Turkey.
To help you avoid making faux pas and feeling out of place, let’s explore the main areas in detail, give you a few ideas of what to wear in Türkiye, and avoid over (or under) packing your bags.
Turkey is a culturally rich country that straddles Europe and Asia As such, Turkish fashion and dress codes are diverse across different regions Understanding how locals dress provides insight into this Eurasian country.
An Overview of Turkish Fashion
Turkish fashion mixes traditional and contemporary styles. In major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, Western trends are popular, especially among younger generations. Turkish designers are also making their mark on the global fashion scene.
However, modesty remains important in this predominantly Muslim country. Locals recommend tourists dress conservatively especially when visiting mosques. Beach resorts are more relaxed.
Traditional Turkish clothing still prevails in rural areas Distinct cultural dress represents various regions, like the Black Sea, Aegean, and southeast
Let’s explore common Turkish fashion and dress codes to help you blend in during your travels.
Modern Turkish Fashion in Big Cities
Turkey’s biggest metropolises, Istanbul and Ankara, are fashion-forward hubs. Locals sport the latest Western trends along with upscale Turkish designs.
Young urbanites wear everything from jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers to posh designer labels. It’s common to see short skirts, dresses, cropped tops, and shorts during warm months. Conservative attire is also present but not as predominant.
Headscarves are optional for women. Some wear them for religious reasons while others sport fashionable wraps.
Western-style business attire is standard in cities. Men typically wear suits and women don dresses or pantsuits to the office.
Istanbul and Ankara both host fashion weeks showcasing top Turkish designers. Fashionistas flock to these events.
Big cities offer bountiful shopping from luxurious malls to bustling bazaars. Locals adore dressing in the latest fashions, be it chic boutiques or street markets.
Turkish Fashion in Conservative Areas
In Turkey’s more devout central, eastern, and Black Sea regions, modesty reigns supreme. Locals, particularly women, dress conservatively in these areas.
Women don loose-fitting tops with long sleeves and ankle-length skirts or dresses. Baggy shirts and trousers are common for men.
Headscarves are frequently worn by women, sometimes with a loose coat over top. In very traditional areas, some women sport a black outer robe called a çarşaf.
Conservative Turkish fashion utilizes dark colors like black, brown, and navy blue. Women often layer long tunics over pants or skirts. Embroidery and ornate trims add decorative accents.
Locals recommend tourists exercise discretion in conservative towns. Revealing or tight clothing can attract unwanted attention.
When visiting mosques countrywide, legs and shoulders should be covered. Some provide wraps, but bringing your own headscarf and conservative attire is advisable.
Seaside Style in Turkish Resorts
Turkey’s spectacular coastline along the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Seas boasts bustling resort towns. Bodrum, Antalya, Marmaris, and others host millions of beachgoers annually.
Resort fashion is far more laidback and revealing than elsewhere in Turkey. You’ll see string bikinis alongside one-piece swimsuits on golden shores.
Ladies strut summery dresses, short shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops along seaside promenades. Men sport board shorts, tee shirts, and sandals during beach days.
Evenings bring nicer attire like sundresses and wedge heels for ladies and polos and loafers for gents. Club-goers don miniskirts and smart tops at night.
Just use good judgment for public spaces like markets and restaurants. Throwing a sarong or other cover-up over swimwear is recommended.
Traditional Cultural Dress Across Turkey
From the lush Black Sea coast to historic southeastern cities, diverse cultures influence Turkish fashion. Traditional clothing endures across the country.
In the Black Sea region, women wear vividly-striped silk dresses with oversized scarves. Gold jewelry and beads adorn outfits.
Aegean styles utilize floral prints and bright colors like fuchsia and turquoise. Layered cotton or gauzy fabrics make up flowy pants and tunics.
Southeastern styles feature intricately embroidered dresses and loose silk pants. Vibrant coins and threads decorate garments.
Men sport collarless jackets and puffy pants across regions. Vests, belts, and headwear complete customary looks.
Villagers still don cultural garb for holidays and special occasions. Traditional motifs and fabrics remain popular countrywide.
Dressing Appropriately as a Visitor
When traveling in Turkey, take cues from locals to blend in. Istanbul and resort towns permit trendier garb, while modesty is safest elsewhere.
Pack versatile outfits like long tunics, loose trousers, and maxi skirts. Scarves and pashminas work for various settings.
Avoid revealing bare legs, shoulders, midriffs, and cleavage, especially around religious sites. Prevent unwanted attention by keeping valuables hidden.
If dining someplace upscale, smart casual wear is appropriate, and formal establishments may require cocktail attire.
Above all, remain respectful of local customs. Turkey hosts endless diversity to experience. Let your clothing reflect a cultural appreciation.
So embrace Turkish fashion’s blend of new and old by experiencing the local style firsthand. The endless bazaars and boutiques offer the perfect chance to shop Turkish designs. Just leave room in your suitcase to take some fabulous finds back home!
Pack Socks In Your Day Bag
Everyone must remove their shoes before entering the Blue Mosque, which means you must have some socks.
What To Wear In Turkey During The Evening
When visiting areas along the Turkish Riviera, Istanbul, and Izmir, you will notice that women tend to dress quite nicely for a night out – think dresses, blouses, jumpsuits, and heels. Men are often in more fitted shirts, trousers, and close-toed shoes.
Temperatures in the evening, especially along the coast, can dip. Bring a lightweight jacket if you feel chilly at 20 degrees Celsius.
What Do People Wear In Turkey?
FAQ
How do female tourists dress in Turkey?
What clothing is typical in Turkey?
Is Turkey strict with dress code?
Is jeans allowed in Turkey?