How does somebody "look American"?

[Anonymous]

Please leave aside the banal stereotypes like weight.

More from a neutral standpoint, what physical characteristics or mannerisms do you think Americans have that stand out that are in the "you know it when you see it" category? I always thought it would be impossible to "look American" or "not look American" because America is a diverse place, as are many other countries. Perhaps in a more homogenous country, it is possible. But now, after having traveled more, I think I can sort of tell when someone looks American, but I can't quite put my fingers on it. Something to do with the eyes and mouth and their facial expressions. Walking movements also appear more casual. This is not just for white people.

[Anonymous]

In general: bigger smiles, louder reactions, more personal space with strangers/less with family/friends, more casual clothing in boring colors

[Anonymous]

Also white people focused:

Openness and friendliness to strangers is a very American thing. I’ve noticed that Europeans rarely walk up and make small talk with strangers.

When traveling in European cities, i also notice The cut of clothing. American men rarely well clothing that is really well tailored to their body type, while that is the norm in most big cities in Europe.

Very white teeth is often an American giveaway.

[Anonymous]

Definitely bigger and more frequent smiles.

[Anonymous]

Backpack on one shoulder.

[Anonymous]

People all over the world in big cities make small talk with strangers, but usually with Americans tourists they want to scam or pickpocket.

[Anonymous]

Loud slobs who think they own the place and are oblivious to those around them.

[Anonymous]

Sightseeing / peoplewatching vs walking purposefully to a destination.

[Anonymous]

obnoxious behavior

[Anonymous]

Fat, sloppy, loud, obnoxious, ignorant.

[Anonymous]

My dc who is at an overseas university says straight, white teeth are a giveaway, big smiles, greeting or smiling at strangers as they walk by, American men don't dress as well/clothes not as good quality or as tailored as European men wear.

[Anonymous]

Americans have a lot more clothes, but probably not as nice or tailored. If you only have a few things because tiny house, no closet, you may spend more on the few things you own.

And definitely straight teeth. Usually better complexions, clearer skin, and clean hair.

[Anonymous]

I think Americans are more likely to wear shorts and flip flops

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Sightseeing / peoplewatching vs walking purposefully to a destination.

? all tourists sightsee

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Americans have a lot more clothes, but probably not as nice or tailored. If you only have a few things because tiny house, no closet, you may spend more on the few things you own.

And definitely straight teeth. Usually better complexions, clearer skin, and clean hair.

very true about the closet, but the rest is really white people focused. Have you seen how Asian's take care of their skin? Much better complexion than Americans.