33 Countries of Origin’ Profiles

7 Most women also covered their heads with some sort of cloth or handkerchief. Likewise, men traditionally wore clothing similar to that of historic Europe with pants, shirts, and often times a vest. Boots were common due to the snow and mud, while hats were essential through much of the year, often times being made from fur. Today the dress in Russia is modern western-styled clothing, but aspects of the past have survived. Boots and hats remain essential in the winters and women generally plan their outfits and hair with their hat in mind. Fur is also still a common clothing items, but today primarily for women's coats. Women also tend to dress liberally, especially in the summers when outfits can be scarce and white pants can be nearly transparent. The opposite is true for Russian men; pants are the norm, but they are almost always black, as are shoes and boots. Blue jean and tennis shoes are expensive so uncommon in Russia today. As a visitor to Russia any western-styled clothing is fine, but try to avoid anything with a political message or anything that may indicate where you are from (although foreign shirts are somewhat of a status symbol in Russia). Despite your best efforts to fit in, blue jeans and tennis shoes will give you away as a foreigner unless you are in Moscow. Other than this, just try to dress for the occasion; many churches, nice restaurants, and political sites require long pants and long-sleeved shirts for entry, while Black Sea beaches are fit for swimsuits and the clubs at night can be rather risque. Behavior Justin Dodge The people of Russia maintain much of the Soviet mentality as they rarely get involved in other people's personal affairs and tend to keep to themselves when in public. Due to this attitude, the people take offense at few things. Although everyone will notice odd behaviors and cultural abnormalities, rarely will anyone point out your cultural mistakes. As a visitor to Russia t ry to follow the lead of the locals by dressing in alike manner (see below for details), dining in the local etiquette (see our Russia Dining & Food Page) , and avoid sensitive conversation topics, such as politics, finances, and business unless initiated by your local counterpart. Also try to avoid being loud, rude, or showing off wealth.