Amman is one of the most liveable and most culturally rewarding capitals in the Middle East — the seven hills of the city, the Roman Theatre in the heart of the downtown, the Citadel above with its Umayyad Palace and the National Archaeological Museum, the restaurant scene of Rainbow Street and Abdoun, and the day trips to Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum that make Amman the most practical base for exploring Jordan's extraordinary heritage. The wardrobe responds to the Jordanian cultural context and the city's own sophisticated social register.

The cultural dress context. Jordan is a Muslim-majority country with a relaxed interpretation of public modesty requirements in its cities — Amman is cosmopolitan and the dress code for foreign visitors is liberal by regional standards, but covered shoulders and modest dress are appropriate in the old city, the mosques, and the more conservative neighbourhoods. A PP linen shirt fully buttoned with linen trousers is both respectful and comfortable.

For downtown Amman. The Roman Theatre, the Duke's Diwan, the gold and spice markets of the downtown souq — a PP linen shirt in a warm earth tone or natural with linen trousers and leather shoes. The ochre stone of Amman's buildings rewards natural fabric in warm natural colourways.

For the Rainbow Street and Jabal Amman restaurant scene. The most internationally observed dining area of Amman — the restaurants and bars of Rainbow Street, the rooftop terraces overlooking the city. A navy PP linen shirt with linen trousers and leather shoes for the evening social register.

For the day trips. Petra — the rose-red Nabataean city, the most visited archaeological site in Jordan. The Siq approach, the Treasury, the Monastery — considerable walking in significant heat. A PP linen shirt in a warm earth tone with linen trousers and leather walking shoes. The Dead Sea — natural swim shorts and a white PP linen shirt.

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