Poland

Youth and young adults are enthralled with denim in Poland, so jeans are perfectly acceptable as long as they are not ripped, torn, or dirty looking. Women in their 20s and older generally wear nice clothing when going to cities and towns, so take along a pair of khaki or dressier pants/skirts and a few nice blouses (not see-through or revealing, though). Leather shoes are quite popular, either sandals in summer or clog-type shoes year round. Wearing clothing with English words on it is not bad at all for foreigners, as the English language is very "in" at the moment. In winter, bring WARM sweaters and heavy socks - it gets mighty chilly. If you plan on staying with a Polish family be sure to bring a pair of houseshoes or slippers, as it is thought that without properly covered feet, you will become sick.
Lynnsey, Tallahassee, USA

Especially in towns other than Warsaw: the women wear cotton skirts (like a dirndl) a few inches above the ankle, usually flowered, easy flowing with flat shoes, either sandals or loafer types. They wear short sleeve blouses, mostly white, or a plain tee shirt with these skirts. In Warsaw, more women wear long pants however the skirt is always most appropriate. I found myself wearing my same longer mid calf swirl skirt all the time, especially when touring churches, etc... For gifts, the women in the surrounding country and villages love any material that is white. They also love to receive white blouses because they wear them so much to church, shopping, etc.
Wanda, Salt Lake City, USA

Portugal

In Portugal don't wear jeans, and sneakers. Nothing screams AMERICAN louder. The women are very well dressed, pants suits in the city, skirts and long sleeves in the countyside. Any woman over the age of 30 should stick to dark colors. We saw black everywhere-even in summer. My best advice: a black light weight cotton skirt, and a 3/4 sleeve knit tee, or a cotton camp shirt. Nothing to tight. Simple, stylish jewelry and hair.
Terri, Des Plaines, USA