STEPS:

Clothing

1. Ditch the athletic shoes. White athletic shoes (otherwise referred to as tennis shoes, or sneakers) are stereotypically American. Any shoes that don’t look like they were meant for exercise will suffice. If you do wear socks, make sure they’re dark or match the color of your pants. Flip-flops are also very noticeable as American attire, unless you’re in a country like Brazil where Havaianas reign, or Australia or New Zealand where the Brazilian flip-flops are also ubiquitous. In most countries, open-toed sandals (Chacos, Tevas, Keens) are borderline at best, and may be totally unacceptable; shoes are always the safest bet in urban areas. However, these are quite acceptable for hiking and active outdoor pursuits, just as they are here. Also, Crocs, the popular foam clogs, may be ubiquitous in the US, but in most of the world are regarded as ridiculous in the extreme and are worn mostly by gardeners and the very young, if at all. Sneakers like K-Swiss, Vans or Adidas in a dark color with no or very subtle logos are much less conspicuous and are a good compromise if you are planning to do a lot of walking.
2. Buy accessories at local stores, especially ones that you see the locals wearing, like scarves. Sometimes not wearing something could signal that you are a tourist. For example, in some countries, hats or scarves are worn by the majority, or, in winter, most people might wear neck scarves. Also, head scarves in some religious establishments. It would be wise to research this in advance and be prepared to take something with you if you plan to visit religious places.
3. Avoid US brand name clothing with easily readable names (e.g., Nike, Gap, Abercrombie, etc.). In fact, don’t wear any slogans (like “Virginia is for lovers”) that will tie you to a specific place. Notoriously American brands are becoming more popular outside of the US due to globalisation; however, it’s still a good idea to stick to non-slogan clothing.
4. Dress a little nicer than usual. Casual dress (wearing sneakers, sweatshirts, t-shirts, jeans, or shorts (especially athletic shorts) instead of slacks or skirts with shirts or blouses) is not as common outside the US. Jeans are not universally accepted as appropriate in all social situations. Take some pairs of trousers or slacks in lieu of jeans. Adults, especially women, should not wear shorts, except for hiking and similar activities. Look around and see whether people tuck their shirts in, or leave them hanging out–sometimes this differs for men and women in the same country. Even in hot weather, a lightweight long sleeve shirt and linen pants may be more appropriate, and will help limit sun exposure.
5. Dress appropriately for the local weather. Shorts and a t-shirt in cool climates (or winter time) are a clear sign that you are not in touch with the local weather. Many Americans also tend to wear technical outdoor gear, such as down jackets and ski jackets, as casual winter outerwear. This is not common in most countries, even very cold ones; more formal coats of wool, fur, or leather are de rigeur. If you have one or are willing to buy one, bring it.
6. Camouflage. What colors do the locals wear? Mostly black and other neutral shades, like in London, or bright, bold colors like in the Caribbean? Wear colors that you see the locals wearing. Folks in Paris, London, and other European capitals tend to wear lots of black, and as a tourist, you tend to blend in if you’re wearing it, too. Your hot pink sweater vest or bright blue collared shirt might be fashionable in Minneapolis, but it won’t fly in Budapest. In tropical climes, keep in mind that local modes of dress may still be less casual than you expect – so a t-shirt and loud board shorts may still look silly. Check travel forums and photos online to get a feel for what the locals wear.
7. Leave your baseball hats, backpack, fanny pack and water bottles at home. Baseball caps and fanny packs SCREAM “American!” Besides,”fanny” means something entirely different in some places, not to mention how unsafe these packs are. It’s best to not carry bags of any kind, with your personal effects concealed about your person in pockets and on lanyards. A purse or tote bag, bought locally, may also work. If you are worried about getting sun in your eyes then wear sunglasses instead of a baseball cap.
8. Be careful about socks. In some countries like Brazil, most people usually don’t wear shorts with black socks – most use white socks and wear clothes that combine with that. And most important, they don’t pull the socks ’till their knees like a tennis player does. Shorts with socks are also a no-no. If you are going to be doing a lot of walking in some place warm like Spain and want to wear shorts, get the short socks that don’t stick out of your shoes.
9. Avoid the stereotypical nylon cargo pants and travel shirt. While they may dry quickly and offer appealing functionality, avoid these unless you’re trekking, rafting, or otherwise truly out in the wilderness. If you’re simply sightseeing in a developed area with plenty of residents, it’s almost guaranteed that the residents will find you comical at best and be offended at worst. Nothing will set you apart faster. Thankfully, it is possible to obtain clothing that offers the technical advantages of quick-dry nylon in styles that are unobtrusive.