Don't…
Dress up

Though Berlin features a range of tribal looks, from scruffy hipsters to New Romantics revisited, business suits are decidedly not part of the mix. Nor are blazers and loafers or anything remotely business-casual. The residents of Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, and Kreuzberg—the neighborhoods where you want to be—are largely marginally employed and dedicated to pursuing their own version of café society. This precludes an outfit that might convincingly belong in an office. If you do wear a coat and tie, be prepared to be mistaken for a politician.

Instead…
Dress the part

Berlin is not Paris, capital of tasteful accessorizing; here, everything is a performance. To fit in, dress according to theme: Full-on ski outfits and Venetian gondolier getups are par for the course. Thrift stores abound, including the ultracheap Colours (pictured), on Bergmannstrasse. At a higher price point, perfectly tattered hoodies and gothic looks from Rick Owens can be found at Apartment; classic 1920s-inspired dandy wear at Herr von Eden on Alte Schönhauser Strasse is finely tailored and a fraction of the price of big-name Italian designers. Those inclined toward retro-cool can find excellent 1970s and '80s shades and eyeglasses at Lunettes on Marienburger Strasse. You'll look like a rich revolutionary in no time.

Next: Follow in Ziggy's footsteps >