Looking for advice about what to wear in Italy? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Ah, Italy! The land of pasta, picturesque landscapes, and unparalleled fashion. Whether you’re wandering through the ancient streets of Rome, basking in the Tuscan sun, or gazing at the Venetian canals, Italy demands a certain sartorial finesse.
Maybe it’s the stylish locals, maybe it’s the sheer historical significance of the place… Whatever it is, I just can’t help but feel compelled to dress up a little when I’m visiting Italy.
Dressing well in Italy is not just about style; it’s about embracing the culture, the climate, and, of course, making those holiday photos extra chic. With this in mind, I’ve put together a little guide on what to wear in Italy… and when to wear it!
My list below goes through all the seasons, and the kind of outfits you should wear, and can wear out and about in the cities and countryside. And don’t worry – I’ve included plenty of examples too!
But first, here are some general tips and advice for what to wear in Italy…
Tip 1: Bring comfortable shoes. A lot of Italian cities and towns feature cobble stones, so a comfortable and sturdy pair of shoes is essential – especially if you plan of walking a lot. And in most cities – you’ll always end up walking a lot.
Tip 2: If you plan on visiting churches or cathedrals, pack modestly. Italy is pretty forward-thinking when it comes to fashion, but if you plan on visiting ancient churches or cathedrals, you’ll need to respect the culture and dress modestly. So it’s worth brining some more ‘covered-up’ options for those days.
Tip 3: Check the season before you leave! Make sure you’ve checked what kind of weather to expect during your visit, and the weather reports, and pack accordingly. There is no point bringing summer dresses, if it’s going to rain the whole time.
Now that’s done – let’s dive into a seasonal guide to ensure you pack the right wardrobe essentials for your Italian adventure!
Spring Splendor (March to May)
Let’s start with what to wear in Italy during springtime. Spring in Italy is a beautiful affair with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It’s one of my favourite times to visit the country because it can be mild and pleasant. However, also unpredictable! So think layers!
- Tops: A mix of long-sleeved blouses / tshirts and light sweaters. Opt for pastel colors or floral patterns to echo the spring vibes.
- Bottoms: Bring along a pair of comfortable jeans and some flowy skirts. The weather can be unpredictable, so versatility is key.
- Dresses: Spring time, floaty dresses work perfectly, just make sure you have a warm jacket to wear over the top. Denim or leather is ideal!
- Outerwear: A trench coat or a light jacket is perfect for those cooler mornings and evenings. They’re stylish yet functional.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must (think stylish sneakers or loafers). You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and cobblestone streets are no joke!
- Accessories: A lightweight scarf can add flair to your outfit and warmth during cooler days. Sunglasses are a must-have for those sunny Italian spring days.
Summer Sizzle (June to August)
Italian summers are amazing, but they are also hot! Your Italian summer wardrobe is all about breathable fabrics, floaty textures, keeping cool, and protection from the sun.
- Tops: Opt for light and airy materials like cotton and linen. Sleeveless tops and flowy blouses are your best friends, so long as you have spf.
- Bottoms: Short skirts, floaty skirts, linen pants, denim shorts, and linen shorts (with modest options to respect the culture, especially when visiting religious sites).
- Dresses: Nothing screams “Italian summer” more than a breezy, beautiful dress. Choose light colors to reflect the sun’s rays. My favourite thing to wear are silk dresses, they’re super light and airy, and perfect for an Italian summer.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals are a must (think chic but practical), but sneakers would work too. Avoid flip-flops unless you’re at the beach. They’re a nightmare on the cobblestones.
- Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin, and don’t forget your sunglasses.
Autumn Allure (September to November)
Fall in Italy is enchanting, with its warm colors and cooler temperatures. It’s such an amazing time of year to explore this beautiful country. Layering is once again your friend, and as the weather can be a little unpredictable – prepare for everything!
- Tops: Transition to warmer fabrics. A mix of short and long-sleeved tops allows for flexibility with changing temperatures. Layers are great because you may be warm during the daytime, and cooler at night.
- Bottoms: Jeans and trousers paired with boots create a perfect autumn look. I also love a floaty maxi skirt with boots too!
- Outerwear: A leather jacket or a wool coat for the cooler evenings. They’re not just practical but ooze Italian chic.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes and ankle boots are perfect for exploring cities or vineyards. I’d also pack a waterproof option, just incase you experience rain.
- Accessories: A scarf for warmth and style. Consider a statement piece that adds a pop of color to your outfit.
Winter Warmth (December to February)
Winters can be quite cold, especially in the north. So, it’s all about warmth and style at this time of year.
- Tops: Layering is essential. Thermal undergarments, sweaters, and cardigans will keep you cozy.
- Bottoms: Woolen pants and jeans are staples. Pair them with warm socks.
- Outerwear: A down jacket or a heavy wool coat is a must. Italian winters demand serious outerwear.
- Footwear: Waterproof boots with a good grip are ideal for those rainy or snowy days.
- Accessories: Warm gloves, a beanie, and a scarf are necessary for braving the cold Italian winters.
Ready for your trip to Italy? Check out this list of Do’s and Don’ts!
Just a few last helpful tips before you set off on your Italian adventure!
Dos:
- Do pack light and versatile pieces: Opt for clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Neutral colors work best but include a few colorful or patterned pieces to add some flair to your ensembles.
- Do choose comfortable footwear: You’ll be walking a lot, often on cobblestones. Bring stylish yet comfortable shoes like loafers, ballet flats, or supportive sandals. Always break in new shoes before your trip.
- Do bring a scarf or shawl: Not only does it add an element of chic to any outfit, but it also comes in handy for visiting churches and religious sites where modesty is required.
- Do pack a compact umbrella and a versatile jacket: Weather can be unpredictable. A lightweight and waterproof jacket and a small umbrella will prepare you for unexpected rain.
- Do include a day-to-night outfit: Italians are known for their passaggiata (evening stroll) and chic dining culture. Pack an outfit that can transition from daytime exploration to an elegant dinner.
- Do remember your sunglasses: Italy is sunny year-round, so a good pair of UV-protection sunglasses is a must.
- Do pack a reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while you explore. Italy has many public drinking fountains with excellent quality water.
Don’ts:
- Don’t overpack: Space is precious, and you’ll likely want to bring home some Italian fashion or souvenirs. Plus, navigating through cities with heavy luggage can be a hassle.
- Don’t bring valuable or flashy jewelry: It’s best to leave expensive items at home to avoid drawing unwanted attention or dealing with the stress of losing them.
- Don’t pack high heels for daily wear: While they might seem like a good idea for a stylish night out, the reality of uneven streets and extensive walking makes them impractical.
- Don’t forget adaptors and converters: Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs, and the standard voltage is 230 V. Ensure your electronics are compatible.
- Don’t ignore dress codes: Research the norms for any specific events you’ll attend. Also, many churches require shoulders and knees to be covered.
- Don’t pack too many heavy books or unnecessary gadgets: Optimize your luggage by using e-readers and multifunctional devices. Remember, most things can be bought or accessed digitally if needed.
- Don’t underestimate the sun: Especially during the summer months, the Italian sun can be intense. Pack and regularly apply a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.
By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Italy’s diverse landscapes and cultural expectations stylishly and comfortably. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your journey, immerse yourself in the beauty of Italy, and create lasting memories—without being weighed down by your luggage.
Ok, you’re all packed and ready to go!
Remember, the key to dressing well in Italy is blending comfort with style. Italians appreciate good taste and dressing appropriately for the occasion.
When in doubt, opt for a more polished look. And most importantly, wear what makes you feel confident and beautiful. After all, the Italian adventure is as much about feeling good as it is about exploring. Buon viaggio!
