Helpful Hints for Kiev--Day 2

Marsh had me bring clothes that would look the most Ukrainian because it's not a great idea to stand out as a tourist or American in these large cities. Boy am I glad I fit in a little! (He says my straight teeth make people think I am either a movie star or from another country. :) ) It's uncomfortable to be somewhere where you can't speak the language and have no idea how to ask for help or anything else. So I thought I would share some tips on what things are like here so you can know how best to fit in.

We were on public transportation almost all day (not something I would advise unless you have someone who knows their way around and can speak the language!). And while I was staring at the floor, trying not to make eye contact (see Behavior below), I was taking mental notes on the differences and similarities between their various life stages and the fashions to go along with them.

Women's fashions:

• Here in Kiev, some people wear jeans. In the outer towns, that may not be so.
• A lot of fur...fur lined coats with huge furry collars are the most common.
• Dark colors. Occasionally I'd see a woman wearing pink or cream, but that was very rare. Most people wear black or gray. Same goes for both genders.
• Shoes are usually black with a pointed toe (rounded point is most common)
• High heeled boots are most common among younger women
• Women always carry bags, not back packs. Their bags are usually dark and often made of faux alligator skin.
• I did not observe one woman wearing earrings. In the US it is a fashion to wear big ones...I wouldn't do that here. It's too uncommon.
• Ponytails are often worn low on the neck
• Gloves and scarves are common in these colder temperatures.
• Things seem to be either really plain or really gaudy. Women will wear Stilletto-type heels, mini skirts, black leather and jewels on their clothes and shoes...or their clothes will be rather plain and dark. I felt like I fit in alright with my black skirt and shoes and my brown faux fur lined skirt and black scarf and gloves.

Men's fashions:

• Dark colors...blacks, greys, browns
• Men rarely wear jeans.
• Men do not carry backpacks...they use bags that are usually black, too. A computer bag would work fine.
• Black coats are most common.
• Everything is pretty non-descript on the men...not many name brands or designs on clothing.

Behavior:

• Do not look anyone in the eye unless you have a reason to converse with them
• Do not smile at anyone
• Men give up their seat on the metro and the women just take it
• Shove your way on the metro with no concern for anyone else...getting interesting, isn't it?
• Dicker down on prices at the tourist shopping areas
• Don't small talk with people
• Walk fast and act like you know where you're going
• Don't take pictures unless you want everyone to know you're a tourist.
• Wear your passport in a pouch around your neck and under your clothes (these can be found at Walmart or anywhere)
• Wear your cash in a money belt under your clothes
• Don't use public transportation in Kiev unless you have a native or former missionary with you!
• Don't expect people to smile at you or feel offended when they don't. That is just how they are here.