StrattDa,

You are going to see a LOT of denim being worn by older as well as younger adults.

As to the washing requirement; the others can probably tell you about the need to wash egg off your face; I'm sure you can probably go for several days between washing some of your other clothes.

..washing outer wear daily is expensive both to the individual and environment. Dry cleaning in Europe tends to be very expensive so learn how to do sweaters in woolite or the equivalent. Where do you live in the US? Take climate differences into account when you pack a jacket/coat.

I remember some French women seeming offended by the flip-flops that my friends and I wore while studying abroad in Paris (in 2002). Maybe it's just Paris, though.

Aside from that, I felt comfortable wearing the same stuff I wore at home.

Have a fabulous time! Studying abroad was the best thing I did in college.