How I blended in without really wanting to was funny even to me. I don't consider myself a fashionista nor a fashion victim (the 80's don't count). I don't have a distinct style but I do have a personal style that ranges from a little bit bohemian to a lot casual with a dash of pretty.

When I travel comfort comes first but that doesn't mean I pack an endless supply of shapeless t-shirts and multi-functional style-deficient safari trousers (look full-length pants! look cropped pants! look shorts! all in one!) the color of dirty water. What I mean by comfort is clothes that don't cinch my waist (ahem belly), ride up my crotch or strap in my breasts like a bustier straight out of medieval times. Loose (stylish-ish) clothing is the way to go and cotton is my best friend.

What I'm getting at is that while wanting to be comfortable, I still like to look somewhat decent while I travel. I always pack a pair of going-out shoes (no heels but they're usually shiny) to turn my daytime clothes into acceptable evening-worthy outfits.

A scarf or two to dress up my outfits day or night always find a place in my backpack. My pants range from skinny jeans (with a high percentage of spandex) to fun-patterned elastic-waste harem/gypsy pants to versatile black leggings (a must-pack item). My tops are casual with lots of potential. My dresses are flirty and flowing. My shorts are worn-out denim.

Read also: Mishaps of my Trip in South East Asia

Smart, efficient mixing & matching is the best policy when packing. I make sure every top and every bottom are compatible enough to create a variety of different outfits. My last-minute (day before or day of departure) packing process is well-thought out (with about a dozen edits). But one thing that never, ever crosses my mind is matching my outfits with the places I visit. That would just be crazy.

And yet.

It's happened more than once.

Sometimes I notice while I'm in the midst of exploring a new place (that wall should have told me it would be wearing the same outfit as me!); other times I gasp when I go through my pictures (I did it again?!). My friends even mock me by commenting on how my outfits unbelievably match my surroundings....again.

Sometimes it's downright obvious. Sometimes it's more subtle. Either way it's crazy how often it happens.

From Southeast Asia to Central America to Europe and the U.S.A., my travel style and I have blended in....without really wanting to.

See for yourself!

BLENDING IN WITHOUT REALLY WANTING TO