How to dress in Italy for the Summer

Tips on what (and what not!) to wear in Florence, Rome, Venice and your other favorite cities in Italy during the summer months

When it comes to women's fashion, Italy is a country that effortlessly radiates style, elegance, and sophistication. Specifically, Italian women primarily embrace classic pieces, favor quality over quantity, and effortlessly mix high-end designs with simple yet elegant accessories. The locals look very put together - even in casual attire! But as a visitor, you need to think ahead of what you can wear that tackles 3 key elements: packing in one suitcase, staying comfortable and dressing to impress!

Often you will see locals from major Italian cities like Florence, Rome, Bologna, Venice have an elegant and sophisticated dress code so, we cover what you should pack, how to dress like a local and any questions that you may have for your upcoming trip to Italy!

What should I pack for Italy?
Recommendations for a lightweight luggage packing list are:
Sundresses
Lightweight pants (such an palazzo pants)
Button up shirts
Comfortable shoes for walking

Make sure to have clothes that you mix and match together so you can spread out your outfits throughout your trip!

What shoes should I bring to Italy?
Sneakers are a perfectly good option to wear while you’re traveling through the various major cities of Italy like Bologna, Florence, Rome and Venice. Locals opt for more neutral sneakers like all black or white. Some alternatives to sneakers too are:
Loafers/oxford shoes
Mules
Sandals
Type of dress shoes/heels

Imagine walking from Piazza Repubblicca in Florence all the way up to Piazza Michaelangelo and then back down to Ponte Vecchio; you’re going to want to have a good pair of sneakers that keep you comfortable throughout the whole day. Then for some evening plans, let’s say at View on Art rooftop bar, it’s good to change into a dress shoe or heel to immerse yourself in the formal-wear of the city nightlife! (tip: Ladies, I suggest switching the stilettos for a block heel because of the cobblestone streets)

What types of fabrics are popular in italy?
Linen and cotton are popular fabrics worn by the locals in Italy because of their versatility to be breathable and fashionable. These fabrics allow for better air circulation, keeping you cool and comfortable while exploring the picturesque streets or visiting historical sites in the country’s warm climate. Additionally, linen and cotton offer a versatile and stylish wardrobe, as they can be mixed and matched to create chic and stylish outfits that reflect the Italian fashion sense. These fabrics are essentials as well when visiting the seaside such as the beautiful region of the Amalfi Coast where you can find your Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Praiano outfit inspiration here.

What should I wear in the evening?
Typically, Italians lean towards formalwear for those night-outs. Strolling the streets of Rome, heading to Fortunato al Pantheon for dinner for example, you will see men in dress pants, shirts, and women in dresses/skirts and heels. The locals certainly like to make a statement, so I would suggest at least one formal outfit; ready to be worn for a night out in the town!

You’re probably wondering "should I bring shorts to italy?" and the answer is yes and no. It depends what kind of shorts - jean short shorts? Definitely not. But a mid thigh bermuda linen pair of shorts? Yes!

It all depends on how you style it and how much skin you are showing. Remember to keep it modest if you plan to visit cathedrals. (and this goes for crop tops too). You will be denied entry if too much is being revealed, so keep this in mind.

Don’t forget to accessorize with jewelry, handbags and a pair of sunglasses. A good leather bag paired with gold earrings, a necklace and sunglasses will surely enhance your overall look when traveling to Italy!

In conclusion, when preparing for a trip to Italy, it's essential to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and style. Opt for lightweight and versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Remember to pack comfortable shoes for long walks while still embracing the Italian sense of fashion. With a well-thought-out wardrobe, you can effortlessly explore the charming streets of Rome or Venice while looking effortlessly chic!

Big Kiss,

KissFromItaly