DRESSCODE

Without question, the American informal dress code of T-shirt, jeans and tennis shoes is increasingly popular in Germany. Nevertheless, you'll find yourself dressing up a lot more in Germany. Even at informal gatherings the German emphasis on stylishness is reflected by wearing a tie or fashionable blouse with jeans (and usually leather shoes). In Germany, you're rarely overdressed unless an invitation has specified attire. Most invitations don't. It is therefore safe to assume that any after-hours gathering not amongst friends requires a dress or coat and tie.