Russians, especially women, particularly pay attention to their appearance both at the local market and at the club. When you look a bit too casual and lay back when it comes to your outfit, you’re going to look like a tourist, which you are. But it’s always best to look like you belong. Russia is a bit conservative and if you choose to wear bright colors, you’re most likely going to stand out. Despite the usual snowy image of Russia, summers in Moscow are hot.

Dress in layers because that will help with the temperature changes throughout the day, whatever month you visit.

When you go to Moscow and St. Petersburg, you will see women dress up with makeup and high heels.

Some worries about pacing miniskirts and short shorts but when you get to the country, you will see how the girls are dressed – they are basically free of wearing what they like.

You should pack dressier clothes than you normally would. Expect to see men in business suits on campus thinking they’re professors, but they’re not. They’re actually students.

When you decide to travel there for winter, wear two things – a warm coat which is nice for when you’re walking outside and taking public transportations and a light outfit under for when you’re inside buildings. Most public places usually have a cloak room so you can basically just leave your warm coat there.

Bring a smarter outfit for formal occasions, like going to the opera or for a play. Locals of the city actually dress up for these types of events and it will be nice to do the same.

Accessories will transform any outfit. So pack a couple pieces which are going to be versatile for an ensemble.

When you decide to visit an orthodox church, be sure to cover your head with a veil or a scarf. Cover up your arms and legs as well.

You should also pack your swimwear if you want to join in the winter time ritual bathing in hot and cold pools and saunas.

Russians wear a lot of fur during the winter – whether it’s fake or real. When its winter, you’re going to need gloves, warm coats, a hat or ear muffs with really good boots that has soft rubber soles because medium soles get really hard when it’s freezing. Remember to take off your gloves when you shake hands with someone.