In recent years, the global retail landscape has become boring. There is very little to discover or explore in another country that you’ve not already seen online or in a store near you.
– Anne Pitcher, managing director of Selfridges department store, London.
I agree with Ms. Pitcher. I’ve noticed in my travels to the UK there is nothing unique to be found. It’s all the same stuff made in China and sold everywhere else including online. That is if you shop at department stores.
There is an alternative. Unique treasures abound at antique markets. I like the Covent Garden Antique Market held every Monday, where I find jewelry, silver, vintage clothing and accessories. Antiques not your thing? On the weekends the market offers locally made arts and crafts.
So it can be done … anywhere you travel, look for antique markets and locally owned shops that feature handmade merchandise.
OverDressed for Life 
I have noted the Covent Garden site for my trip next year. I have recently been thinking about this precise issue, in fact. When I traveled in Europe in 1978, I knew I was dressing VERY differently from everyone there and I screamed AMERICAN without saying a word. I used to be able to tell a European by his/her shoes but I don’t think that’s true any more. We’ll see!
I still see some people who look European but it’s on the decline.
Covent Garden is one of my favorite London spots. I always make sure to hit the antique market every Monday. The rest of the week is a market of handmade items.