Growing up in Wisconsin, I am very accustomed to having all four seasons (something three in one week!) so when I started researching the kind of temperatures I would experience in Taiwan, I got nervous. I do NOT like humidity or feeling sweaty but trying new things and adapting to a new lifestyle was what this whole thing was about. I was committed to embracing it even if that meant missing out on the smell of Autumn in the air towards the end of Summer, crafting a Halloween costume like I did every year, and putting up a Christmas tree.
Although Taiwan brings a lovely sub-tropical climate, it also brings the rainy season, lasting from around June-October. This is also known as Typhoon season, but living in the geographical center of the island with no ocean nearby in Puli, I didn’t have to worry about that. You can definitely leave your winter coat at home but you better pack some good rain gear to get yourself through the day-to-day. January-March are the coldest it’s going to get on the island at around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit, but to a Midwest girl like me, that was still shorts and maybe a thin sweater kind of weather.
Depending on your own personal style, you may need to decide where you want to go. I am a little overweight with a larger chest size so I knew that finding clothes would be a challenge once I arrived. I made a plan ahead of time to purchase everything I thought I would need in case there was truly no where that could accommodate to my curvier figure. I am also much more of a dress lady than one who wears pants and blouses so that too was considered when planning for which store to hit up. My biggest piece of advice when filling in the gaps: stick to a color scheme and vibe where everything goes with everything. I tried my best to create a capsule wardrobe because of the limited space I would have in my suitcases. Also, who wants to carry all of that around the world? It really takes the stress out of picking out clothes in the morning.
Retail Staples
After I took bits and pieces from my closet, I made a list of what I thought I needed and headed to my favorite stores. I knew that Target would be great for basics like tees, pajamas, a carry-on bag, a water bottle, travel-sized things, face wipes, make-up, and socks. I do live by the phrase “If it’s not at Target, you maybe don’t need it!”
Old Navy has always been my destination for teacher shorts and dresses because of their affordability, comfort, and style. This season, they did not disappoint and starting my shopping in the end of July/beginning of August was the best time to snag those end of season deals. I found so many dresses there that I LOVED!
My mom and I have a tradition of going to T.J. Maxx and with our own carts, filling them to the top, and trying on half the store. We enjoy the digging to find the good stuff and if you take the time, you really come away with some fantastic purchases. Of course, I made some stops there and was able to find great dresses and some Ellen Tracy undershorts that are good to wear under dresses (because little kids pull on your skirt to get your attention). It proved again to be a great choice to find A+ brands for a steal!
Some of my favorite items
Waist-Defined Flutter-Sleeve Dress: This is the ultimate teacher dress! When I came out of the dressing room, I even hopped out, smiling, saying “Yฤซngyว lวoshฤซ!” (English Teacher)๐ It’s airy and comfortable while looking professional, making it perfect for moving to a country with such a humid climate. I bought it in both the Blue Plaid (pictured above), the color “Lost at Sea Navy” and in Black Plaid. Women’s Size L
Universal Thread Utility Shorts: Are these going to be something I can wear to work? No. Do I love them and will I live in them every weekend? Yes. Not only do I love the color but they are breathable and super soft. I’ve actually had these shorts for a while and I’ve fallen asleep in them they felt so good (and I usually change into pajamas the second I’m home for the night). One downfall, which honestly I’ve found with a lot of Target clothing, is since these are marketed to a younger age group, the seams are sown very narrow so to find a pair that were loose and breezy on me, I had to purchase a size that is WAY bigger than I usually get. If this is something that bothers you, I’d skip them and find something similar at another store. Oh well, to me, it’s just a letter and if they fit, I’m wearing them! Women’s size XXL
Lancรดme UV Expert Aquagel Defense Primer & Moisturizer with SPF50: This is an all-in-one primer and moisturizer that is oil-free. Moving to a country with a sub-tropical climate, I knew that I needed a solution to protecting my very fair skin from the sun but I didn’t want the heavy texture of face sunscreen every single day. I tested many options at my local Ulta before moving and although this was one of the more expensive options, it felt the best on my skin. It is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and absorbs very quickly without leaving the skin shiny. Size 1.0 oz
Pacifica Stress Rehab & Pacifica Super Green Detox: I wanted to make sure that I had something that reminded me of home when I needed to “treat myself” so I stocked up on some of my favorite sheet masks. Going to a hot and foreign area, I knew that I will be sweating more and under more pressure so I knew that a good green tea and charcoal masks would really do good for my skin (and mental health!) They are very small and take up hardly any space in a suitcase, so why not? 0.67 fl oz
Star Above Notch Collar Pajama Set: These pajamas are AMAZING. They are soft, breathable, and super cute. They were also extremely easy to ball up and throw into a suitcase. I got them in two different colors and in a pattern. I cannot rave enough about these. I do recommend getting these in one size larger than you usually wear for an extra airy, comfortable wear. Women’s Size XL
Mayari Birko-Flor Nubuck Stone Birkenstocks: These shoes are the real deal. I fought these shoes for years because I thought they were ugly, but I have to say, they are the most comfortable shoes EVER. I have troubles with my arches and I sometime put them ON even if I’m just at home because they feel so good. The cork-latex foot bed molds to fit the shape of your foot, making them a truly custom shoe. I’ve had mine for a little over a year now, but they are durable and very well made so I know they will last a very long time. A little pricey but 150% worth the splurge to get these incredible weekend/beach/hiking/working shoes! Unisex Size EU 38
Keds: Double Decker Suede (Light Pink): These shoes are comfortable, cute, and look really good with the color scheme that I decided to work with. I also love that you don’t have to tie them. Slip them on and you’re out the door! Women’s Size 7.5
Keds: Courty Jersey (Light Grey): I was looking for a sporty little shoe that is comfortable yet didn’t look like a chunky sneaker. These are cute with the few pairs of pants that I do have but also chic with all my dresses that I ended up packing. I also knew that these would be a good walking shoe which is needed in a town that doesn’t have a regular established metro. I already had another pair of Keds but they truly are a great shoe! Women’s Size 7.5
Columbia Switchback III Hooded Packable Jacket Plus: In this weather, a rain jacket is absolutely necessary. Columbia is a very trusted and durable brand but I chose this one because it is also nice and light, which also will be good for the heat. This jacket does have a hood that can conveniently get Velcro-ed under the collar when you don’t need it. I know that I will be able to also use this in the colder months if I really need a little jacket. And that color? I’m in love! Women’s Size 1X
I found the blogs of Caffeine & Roses, Olivia Leaves, and Discover Discomfort to be incredibly helpful when making my lists and checking off all the boxes. Check them out as well for more tips and advice about moving to a new country! Pinterest has also been a lifesaver throughout this whole process so if you do not have one yet, seriously sign-up. You can even use your Facebook for quick and easy login information.
Thanks for reading! What are your retail go-tos for essentials? Do you have any favorite brands you can’t live without? Let me know! Comment below if you have any questions for me or if you’d like to see something else on this blog.
There is still so much more to see but for now this has been,
Emma Eiden, An ESL Teacher Abroad
An ESL Teacher Abroad 