Amsterdam is a relaxed and informal city. Work attire is casual with juniors in suits and the bosses in sweaters. The finance industry tends to be the most conservatively dressed. Only in the swankiest of restaurants will a jacket and tie seem particularly appropriate, and the stylish-but-casual look is de rigeur at cultural events. You can wear jeans to the opera or Concertgebouw and you won't stand out a bit. In terms of the climate, there's no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing – so come prepared for rain and lots of it. If you haven't yet mastered the art of cycling with an umbrella – though many people do – pick up a rain cape at a cycling shop. Winters are getting milder but you'll need a scarf/gloves/hat combo in January.