Looking for what to wear in Italy so your packing list is complete before you head to the land of pasta, pizza, and friendly people? You have come to the right place!
Italy is one of the most fashionable countries in the world, so packing the right outfits for your trip is key to looking chic while staying comfortable. I have been to Italy many times and in every season, so I am the perfect person to help you plan your Italy outfit ideas.
From the cobblestone streets of Rome to the canals of Venice, your packing list for Italy should be comfortable and versatile. It also depends on what time of year you are visiting Italy and what you are planning on doing.
What to wear in Italy for summer on the coast vs summer in the Dolomites will be two entirely different outfits. Visting Venice in fall or Rome in winter will be very different as well. Sicily in winter? NOT the same as Milan in winter! So having an idea of when you are looking to visit is also a great help for planning what to wear in Italy.
I will take you though some Italy outfit ideas and break them down by occasion as well as give packing tips to ensure you’re ready for any Italian adventure. Whether you’re visiting during the summer, winter, spring, or fall, this guide will help you dress confidently and appropriately for the season.
What To Wear In Italy
Choose Timeless, Lightweight Fabrics
Italy’s climate can range from mild to hot, depending on the season and location. In the warmer months, opt for breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk. These will keep you cool during the day and looking polished for dinner.
Also, it is important to keep in mind that Italy doesn’t have AC in many places, so that makes packing breathable fabric all the more important!
Cotton sundresses: Perfect for wandering through Italian cities or enjoying lunch at a piazza. Choose flowy, elegant styles in neutral tones or soft patterns.
Linen shorts and blouses: Linen is a summer favorite in Italy. Go for relaxed linen shorts with a light blouse or a button-up shirt for a casual yet stylish look.
Maxi dresses and skirts: These pieces offer both comfort and chic style, ideal for coastal areas or evening strolls. A maxi skirt paired with a fitted tank or blouse can easily transition from day to night.
Pro Tip: Stick to neutral or soft, understated tones like beige, cream, and pastels for an effortlessly chic Italian look. This makes mixing and matching your Italy outfit ideas easy especially if you are packing a capsule wardrobe. That being said, I do love a few pops of color, but this is still a good rule of thumb.
Footwear for Exploring Italy’s Cobblestone Streets
Walking is an integral part of any Italy trip, and cobblestone streets are everywhere. While you want to be comfortable, Italians are known for their polished style, so aim for shoes that strike the perfect balance between comfort and fashion. I highly recommend testing out your shoes in advance of adding them to your Italy packing list!
Leather sandals: These are a go-to for both casual and dressier occasions. Opt for strappy leather sandals that offer support and durability for long walks.
Stylish sneakers: A sleek pair of leather or canvas sneakers will keep you comfortable while exploring cities like Rome or Florence without sacrificing style.
Espadrilles: Perfect for warmer days, espadrilles are stylish and breathable, making them great for coastal regions like the Amalfi Coast.
Pro Tip: Leave the high heels at home, especially if you’ll be walking through uneven streets. Stick to flats, sandals, or low block heels for evenings out. Personally, I usually only pack a few shoes that go with many of my Italy outfit ideas and heels are not one of those things.
Layering for Day-to-Night Transitions
Even in warmer months, temperatures can drop in the evening, so layering is key when packing for Italy. Lightweight outerwear and accessories will keep you comfortable as you move from day tours to evening dinners.
Light cardigans or blazers: A fitted blazer or cardigan can instantly elevate your look, perfect for dining al fresco as the sun sets.
Denim jackets: For a casual yet stylish layer, pack a denim jacket that pairs well with both dresses and jeans.
Scarves: Italians love scarves, and they’re the perfect accessory for adding a touch of elegance while offering warmth on cooler evenings.
Pro Tip: A light scarf can also be used to cover your shoulders if you plan on visiting churches or religious sites where modesty is required. I HIGHLY recommend doing your research and heeding this warning as you WILL be turned away from churches if you do not cover your shoulders and wear a skirt that is long enough!
Weather-Ready Accessories
Italy’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the spring and fall. Make sure you’re prepared with accessories that protect you from the elements while maintaining your style.
Compact umbrella: Spring and fall showers are common in Italy, so pack a small, foldable umbrella for sudden rain.
Sunglasses: A pair of chic, oversized sunglasses is a must in Italy, not only for sun protection but also as a key part of your stylish ensemble.
Wide-brimmed hat: For days spent under the Tuscan sun, a wide-brimmed hat is essential for both sun protection and adding a touch of glamour.
Pro Tip: Look for a hat that’s foldable or packable, so you can carry it in your tote when it’s not needed. This is a great way to add something cute when planning what to wear in Italy.
Evening Wear for Italian Nights Out
Packing for evenings in Italy are all about understated elegance. Whether you’re dining in a cozy trattoria or sipping wine on a rooftop terrace, your Italy outfit should reflect sophistication.
Wrap dresses: A simple yet elegant wrap dress is perfect for a night out. It’s flattering, comfortable, and can be dressed up with the right accessories.
Silk tops and tailored trousers: Pair a silk blouse with high-waisted trousers for an effortlessly chic look.
Block-heeled sandals or loafers: For evening footwear, go for block heels or stylish loafers. They’re comfortable enough for walking but still dressy enough for an evening dinner.
Pro Tip: Bring a light pashmina or shawl for cooler evenings, especially if dining outdoors. As I mentioned above, layering is key and it can get cool in the evenings, even if it is hot in the daytime!
Packing for Italian Cultural Etiquette
When visiting Italy, keep in mind the country’s cultural norms, especially when it comes to attire for religious or historic sites. Modesty is important, so make sure you’re prepared to cover up when necessary. This is VERY important and you don’t want to get turned away!
Modest clothing for churches: When visiting Italy’s beautiful cathedrals, such as St. Peter’s Basilica or the Duomo, cover your shoulders and knees. Bring a scarf or shawl to wrap around if needed.
Comfortable shoes for walking tours: Most Italian cities are best explored on foot, so make sure you have comfortable walking shoes for museum visits and city tours.
Pro Tip: Avoid overly casual items like workout clothes or flip-flops when visiting churches or more formal locations. From my experience, sandals are okay but this is a place of worship and Italy takes this very seriously.
Italy Outfit Ideas By Occasion
Shopping Day In The City
Whether you’re strolling through local markets or browsing boutiques, a comfortable yet chic outfit is perfect for a day of shopping in Italy. You want something that’s easy to move in but still looks polished which is why this Italy outfit idea is versatile and cute.
Outfit Example:
Top: A silk camisole or a lightweight blouse.
Bottom: Tailored trousers or high-waisted jeans.
Footwear: Stylish sneakers or loafers for comfort.
Accessories: A structured crossbody bag and oversized sunglasses.
Why It Works: This outfit for Italy combines comfort with sophistication, making it perfect for a day of walking around and shopping. The loafers or sneakers provide support without compromising on style. This is very popular in Italy and Europe in general as well!
Coastal Chic: Relax in Style
If you are looking for what to wear in Italy for those relaxing coastal days, this is the perfect outfit. You will want to be relaxed and coastal chic.
Outfit Example:
Top: A flowy linen blouse or cropped tank top.
Bottom: Wide-leg linen pants or a maxi skirt.
Footwear: Espadrilles or flat sandals.
Accessories: A wide-brimmed sun hat, straw bag, and sunglasses.
Why It Works: Lightweight fabrics like linen are perfect for keeping cool by the coast. The wide-leg pants or maxi skirt give you a relaxed, elegant look, while the sun hat adds extra sun protection.
Dinner Out On The Piazza
Evenings in Italy are all about understated elegance. Whether it’s a casual trattoria or a more upscale restaurant, your evening look should feel chic but not overdone. My favorite part of Italy is just walking around and looking for a place with lots of locals to eat. You want your Italy outfit to be ready for anything when it comes to dinner.
Outfit Example:
Top: A silk blouse or wrap top.
Bottom: A midi skirt or high-waisted trousers.
Footwear: Block heels or ballet flats.
Accessories: A clutch and statement earrings.
Why It Works: The silk blouse and midi skirt combo is both sophisticated and comfortable, ideal for transitioning from a relaxed evening stroll to a stylish dinner. Block heels give you height while remaining comfortable for walking. If you wanted to wear sandals instead so you can avoid packing heels, I do recommend it!
Picture-Perfect Sightseeing Essentials
Italy is filled with historic landmarks and stunning architecture, so you’ll likely spend a lot of time walking. Your sightseeing outfit for Italy should be comfortable for exploring but polished enough for photos. I love something simple like my idea for what to wear in Italy below.
Outfit Example:
Top: A fitted cotton tee or button-up shirt.
Bottom: High-waisted shorts or lightweight trousers.
Footwear: Comfortable walking sneakers or sandals.
Accessories: A small backpack or crossbody bag, and sunglasses.
Why It Works: This outfit balances comfort and style, ensuring you’re prepared for a full day of walking while still looking put together. The structured shorts or trousers keep the look polished but simple for your time out exploring the countryside or village.
Tuscan Charm: Wine Tasting in the Countryside
For a day spent sipping wine in the countryside or enjoying a vineyard tour, opt for something light and breathable, with a relaxed yet elegant style that suits the occasion. Tuscany or any of the wine regions in Italy are really beautiful, but you will be walking on uneven ground and you want to be prepared.
Outfit Example:
Top: A sundress or romper in a soft fabric.
Footwear: Comfortable sandals or espadrilles.
Accessories: A straw hat for sun protection, sunglasses, and a woven tote bag.
Why It Works: This outfit is perfect for casual elegance in the countryside. The sundress or romper is easy to wear all day, and the sandals keep you comfortable while walking through vineyards.
Sophisticated Comfort for Museums and History Tours
You will want an outfit that is casual, and comfortable, but still stylish for days spent indoors exploring some of the incredible museums that Italy has to offer. These Italy outfit ideas also translate to walking around town if you are doing both in the same day!
Outfit Example:
Top: A light sweater or long-sleeve blouse.
Bottom: Cropped trousers or midi-length skirt.
Footwear: Loafers or flats for comfort.
Accessories: A scarf and tote bag for carrying essentials.
Why It Works: This look is ideal for a cultured day in Italy, providing comfort for walking and standing, while the scarf and loafers give it a chic, Italian touch. I do recommend the scarf or shawl in case you end up going into churches!
Laid-Back Italian Vibes for Casual Days
You will want an Italy outfit idea that’s simple yet stylish for a relaxed day of exploring smaller towns or enjoying a café. Think casual sophistication. This is the perfect versatile outfit if you are looking for what to wear in Italy for multiple occasions.
Outfit Example:
Top: A classic striped tee or cotton blouse.
Bottom: Denim shorts or cropped pants.
Footwear: Casual sandals or fashion sneakers.
Accessories: A crossbody bag and sunglasses.
Why It Works: This casual yet chic outfit is perfect for a laid-back day in Italy. If you are looking for what to wear in Italy that is comfortable while blending effortlessly into Italy’s relaxed yet stylish aesthetic, this is a great start!
Packing List for Italy by Season
Now that you have a few Italy outfit ideas, let’s break it down by season to ensure you’re prepared for Italy’s different climates and seasons. Here is what to pack for each time of year, whether you are going to explore the warm Mediterranean summers or cooler winters in the Alps!
Spring in Italy: What to Wear
Spring in Italy is beautiful but can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). Layers are essential for fluctuating weather.
Outfit Example for Spring:
Top: A light knit sweater or long-sleeve tee.
Bottom: High-waisted jeans or a midi skirt.
Outerwear: A trench coat or denim jacket for layering.
Footwear: Leather sneakers or flats.
Accessories: Sunglasses and a scarf for added warmth.
Why It Works: Spring in Italy can be both warm and cool, so layering is key when packing for this season. A trench coat or jacket keeps you warm during cooler mornings and evenings.
Summer in Italy: What to Wear
Packing for summer in Italy can be hot, especially in cities like Rome and Florence, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C). Lightweight fabrics and sun protection are essential.
Outfit Example for Summer:
Top: A cotton sundress or linen blouse.
Bottom: Linen shorts or a flowy midi skirt.
Footwear: Flat sandals or espadrilles.
Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a straw bag.
Why It Works: Lightweight fabrics keep you cool in Italy’s summer heat, while stylish accessories like a sun hat protect you from the sun and elevate your look. If you are looking for Italy summer outfit ideas, keep this in mind!
Fall in Italy: What to Wear
Fall in Italy is mild and beautiful, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). It’s a great time to bring out your favorite fall pieces, but remember to pack layers for chilly evenings. Packing for fall in Italy is quite easy and you can layer cute pieces and create a capsule wardrobe.
Outfit Example for Fall:
Top: A long-sleeve knit sweater or blouse.
Bottom: Cropped trousers or jeans.
Outerwear: A leather jacket or blazer for layering.
Footwear: Ankle boots or loafers.
Accessories: A scarf and crossbody bag.
Why It Works: This layered look is perfect for the changing weather in fall, with light sweaters and jackets keeping you warm as the evenings get cooler. This is a great start when figuring out what to wear in Italy in fall.
Winter in Italy: What to Wear
Winter in Italy varies by region, with northern cities like Milan experiencing colder temperatures (30°F to 50°F / -1°C to 10°C) and southern regions remaining more mild. You’ll need layers and warm outerwear to stay comfortable when looking for what to wear in Italy in winter.
Outfit Example for Winter:
Top: A thermal long-sleeve or wool sweater.
Bottom: Thermal-lined jeans or wool trousers.
Outerwear: A wool coat or puffer jacket.
Footwear: Waterproof boots or lined leather ankle boots.
Accessories: A knit hat, scarf, and gloves.
Why It Works: In Italy’s colder months, staying warm without sacrificing style is key. Wool coats and boots protect you from the elements, while classic winter accessories keep you cozy when planning your winter outfit ideas for Italy.
Other Essentials to Add to Your Italy Packing List
Regardless of the season, there are a few essentials you’ll want to include in your Italy packing list:
Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated while walking.
Portable phone charger for long days of sightseeing.
Sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin from the elements.
Compact umbrella for unexpected rain showers.
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and ancient sites.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear in Italy
Packing for a trip to Italy means balancing style with practicality. Whether you’re exploring historic cities, lounging by the coast, or enjoying a countryside retreat, your wardrobe should reflect Italy’s effortless elegance.
I love Italy, there is so much to see and do, and figuring out what to wear in Italy DOES depend on where you are planning on going! The coast during summer is not the same as the Dolomites during summer. Venice in Fall isn’t the same as Rome during the winter.
Keep your outfits comfortable for walking, layered for changing temperatures, and polished to match the chic Italian aesthetic. With these Italy outfit ideas and packing tips, you’ll be ready to experience the country in style, no matter the season!
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