What to Wear in Italy: A Complete Packing Guide (2024)

In this packing guide, discover essential tips for what to wear in Italy and outfit ideas that will have you blending in with the locals. Find out the best styles in Italy, including practical advice on footwear and how to dress like a true Italian.

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Having traveled many times to Italy – in almost every season of the year – I know what to wear in Italy, and how to dress for that soigné, casual-yet-luxurious Italian style. I have also seen how Italian fashion can fuse style with practicality, from the cobbled streets of Rome to the Mediterranean glow of the Amalfi coast.

Italian fashion is all about looking good by blending in – which is why, whether your stay involves ‘window shopping’ on the Via Monte Napoleone in Milan or sipping espressos at a Florentine piazza while people-watching, learning how to dress in Italy is essential.

Italians are famous for great style, and yet fashion in Italy is refined, relaxed and low-key, with everyday Italian clothing a distinct brand of polished yet comfortable. Learning how to dress for Italy means getting the balance of smart-casual just right, between everyday Italian-style dress and making great basics as fashion-forward as possible.

In this packing guide, I’ll share my best packing tips for what to wear in Italy, as well as outfit ideas that’ll have you blending in with the Italians like a true pro. There are too many classic Italian dress styles to choose from, so I’ll be running down the best styles in Italy along with outfit ideas, plus I’ll also be sharing some practical packing tips like what kind of footwear you should pack.

I’ll also be going into what to wear for the different seasons, as well as giving packing tips specifically for your itinerary and the styles. We’re going to cover so much ground, it’s a good job I’m bringing my trusty Italian luggage. Ready to pack for your next Italian adventure? Let’s go!

🇮🇹Where are you going in Italy?

I love that Italy is a world of contrasts, in which each region feels like a chapter in its own right. I especially like to dress according to the mood of the incredible places I find myself in, whether I am in the fashion mecca that is Milano or leisurely spending time on the Amalfi Coast.

What to wear in Milan:

Walking the streets of Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, I opt for my best clothes. I reach for sharp, fitted blazers accompanied by statement accessories that are exquisitely refined. Sleek shoes are a must, so I’m ready to strut the clean, stylish streets just like everyone else.

What to wear in Tuscany:

Earthy tones and natural textures are in keeping with a Tuscan chic, boho-vibe and I love wearing layers of breathable linen and relaxed cotton dresses, layered with a wide-brimmed hat to protect me from the scorching sun while we tour the vineyards. Comfortable sandals and espadrilles get me out of the boots or skater shoes and offer something relaxed and on-trend.

What to wear in Rome:

Eternal Rome requires clothes for easy elegance, so, I always bring a couple of flowing dresses to wear with stylish-sensible footwear, making it simple to stroll from ruins to ristorantes. Wide-leg pants paired with a touch of the dramatic in a whispery scarf or shawl make for a sophisticated-romantic outfit while navigating the most dramatic of Rome’s streets.

What to wear in Lake Como:

For a stylish weekend in Lake Como, I like to pack classic dresses. Everyday wear is a long, figure-flattering black-and-white dress, which impresses every time you step out for evening lake-side dinners.

In the daytime, I wear a white vest top with tailored trousers or a flowing skirt, for a cool, stylish, relaxed approach to dressing up. Lake Como is the epitome of laid-back elegance, and I therefore feel at ease in simple, classic pieces that exude effortless glamour.

What to wear in the Amalfi Coast:

Oh, this is the Amalfi Coast! The Mediterranean’s pin-up girl. All of a sudden it’s time for me to slip into white linen, girly sundresses, and immense straw hats that keep both my face and my accessories cool, while the empty mesh crown wipes my forehead.

You wear pretty sandals or espadrilles to beach-hop, and stuff a large beach tote with everything you might need: sunscreen, styles, and a bottle of limoncello for under the waterfall.

☀️When are you going to Italy?

Italy's seasons are distinct, and each one has its own allure.

Spring: (March, April, May).

Flowers blooming, pleasant weather. Bring layers such as cardigans or summer jackets to deal with cool mornings and warm afternoons.

Summer:

June to August, hot and sunny in most of the country, except colder in the mountains. Cotton and linen are the best fabrics for this time, and go for light dresses, skirts and shorts.

Fall:

Italian temperatures start to cool down in September to November, and you’ll want to make sure you bring a leather jacket and a scarf to layer up for the cooler evenings.

Winter:

December to February can be quite cold, particularly the further north you go. Pack plenty of wool sweaters, coats and boots to stay fashionably warm.

Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella, as a sudden shower can occur any time.

📅How long are you staying in Italy?

How long are you staying? That’s the question on which all else hinges: how much, or how little, to pack.

Weekend Getaway:

For a quick trip, a few interchangeable basics are what you need. Think a couple of dresses, a pair of jeans, versatile tops, and a little coat or jacket.

One-Week Stay:

A week-long itinerary allows you more flexibility with your style. Bring a couple more statement pieces, different shoes, and perhaps a dress or two for those romantic dinners.

Two Weeks or More:

You need lots of flexibility here. Pack clothes that mix and match, to create several looks. Throw in a few dressier pieces for special evenings out.

👟Types of Shoes to Wear in Italy

Comfortable Day Sneakers (Year-Round):

You do an awful lot of walking in Italy, whether you’re touring an ancient ruin or negotiating a side street or alley, and so your sneakers have to be cute and comfy; I always take a pair of sleek leather trainers or slip-on sneakers because they have the style that’s right for European fashion but can do double duty for strolling or even intense sightseeing.

Travel Sandals:

What better footwear to pair with those sweltering summer days when you’re dashing from Roman ruin to Roman ruin, or ambling down the coastline of the Riviera, than a pair of flat, leather sandals? Breathable and light, they will help to keep your toes cool, as well as giving you that desirable Mediterranean edge. Just make sure the straps are sturdy, with a good cushioned sole.

Birkenstock:

These simple sandals are a travel essential because they are always comfortable and rarely go out of style. They are great for strolling around Italy’s picturesque hill towns – and work just as well as poolside sandals when you are sunning yourself on the Amalfi Coast. I like to pack just one pair in a neutral tone that matches everything.

Dressy Flats or Heels (Year-Round):

Sure, a sneaker is great for sightseeing but Italy has many restaurants that are quite fancy with cocktail bars that are equally stylish, so it’s essential to bring something dressy.

Maybe you should pack a pair of dressy flats or heels (depending if you’re cozy or fancy), which are comfortable and stylish for restaurants and bars. Pick a neutral color that will go with many of your outfits.

Ankle Boots (Fall-Winter):

Ankle boots are a favorite piece of clothing in Italy during the colder months of the year. They are perfect to wear with jeans or dresses, adding a stylish flair to any outfit and keeping your feet warm and safe. A pair of clean leather or suede boots will ward off cold winds while still looking suitable for any occasion.

👒Seasonal Fashion Tips

🌻What to Wear in Italy in Summer

Summer is sizzling, so stick to lightweight fabrics that breathe.

Summer Weather in Italy: Hot and sunny, with temperatures sometimes soaring past 90°F.

Italy Outfits Summer:

• Linen: Effortlessly chic and breathable.

• Sundresses & Skirts: Playful and perfect for warm evenings.

• Tailored Shorts: Keep cool without sacrificing style.

• T-Shirts & Breathable Tops: Casual, comfortable, and ideal for layering.

• Swimwear and Cover-Ups: A must-have if you’re hitting the Mediterranean coast!

🍂What to Wear in Italy in the Fall

Layering is the key to fall in Italy – it’s not unseasonably cold, but the weather can be hit or miss.

Fall Weather in Italy:

Be prepared for chilly mornings and even a cooler evening, so I always reach for something cozy to wrap up in first thing in the morning and layer up for colder nights. I sometimes get too hot when the sun is out more, so I take layers off then.

Italy Outfits Fall:

A lightweight jacket or sweater is a must-have for chilly evenings.

Scarves are my secret weapon for both warmth and style—they instantly elevate any outfit.

Multi-purpose trousers that can be dressed up or down allow for smooth changes from sightseeing to evening meals.

❄️What to Wear in Italy in Winter

In Italy, winter depends on where you are – winter time in the south is cold and rainy, while winters in the north see a blanket of snow. Wrap up warm in cosy layers without compromising on style.

Winter Weather in Italy:

Southern Italy can be wet and cool. Northern Italy can get serious snow. Pack for anything!

Italy Outfits Winter:

You definitely need to wear a coat in winter to protect yourself from the cold winds, and wool jumpers are the most suitable for keeping you warm without letting you feel bulky.

A stylish hat adds flair while keeping your head snug.

I often pack a pair of gloves and a scarf for the frosty winter strolls.

🌸What to Wear in Italy in Spring

If you are in Italy in spring, you’ll know it feels like this: temperatures rise from low to high in the course of a day, so dress appropriately.

Italy Outfits Spring:

Layers are important for variable daytime temperatures – start with lightweight knits such as a sweater or cardigan over a dress or blouse.

Soft pinks, blues, and greens suggest spring and that’s why I tend to wear pastel colors at this time of year.

Dresses are ideal for layering – they look great with a jacket or scarf in the morning, and then the layers are removed to enjoy the sun later on.

👜What Kind of Purse to Wear in Italy:

Choosing the right purse for Italy is important, and these are my favorite ways to stay organized and stylish:

Crossbody Bag:

And I’m never without my crossbody bag or my fanny pack. It makes it so easy to tote around keys, cash, ID, camera, phone, and whatever else I need while keeping it out of reach.

They are long enough to go around me, so I can wear it over my opposite shoulder, leaving my hands free to snap a picture or sip a gelato, or to snake through a crowded market or thronged piazza.

Travel Backpack:

However, when I need to go further afield or carry a little more with me, I put on my travel backpack. It’s modern and handy, but my gear also fits perfectly. My bag holds everything I need for a day of walking through the countryside or a city art museum and leaves my hands free to explore. But typically I just lug around my backpack when I'm traveling between cities.

Large Beach Tote (Summer Coastal Towns):

In case I’m traveling to one of Italy’s famed coastal villages, a roomy beach tote is a must: large enough to hold my towel, sunscreen and a chic novel, and any souvenirs I find along the way, but also large enough to double as a general carryall for transitioning easily from beach to seaside restaurant.

🧳Other Things to Pack in Italy

Each time I go to Italy, I always pack the same few essentials to help me stay cool, comfortable, and prepared for any fun activity we might do.

Sunscreen, Sunhat, and Sunglasses:

The summer sun in Italy can be fierce, and I love to safeguard my skin while remaining fashionable. I throw on my favorite wide-brimmed sunhat, my cool new oversized sunglasses, and a good sunscreen, and the rays have nothing on me.

Umbrella:

They say that Italian weather is erratic, so I always pack somewhere a small umbrella, foldable, just in case of unexpected rain.

Plug Adapter:

I always pack a universal plug adapter. European outlets are not the same as back home.

Jewelry Organizer:

When I’m on holiday, the last thing I want to be dealing with is a tangled heap of necklaces. I have a travel-sized jewelry case, which contains my favorite pieces and keeps them easily accessible. I can even add other jewelry when I need to accessorize.

Insulated Water Bottle:

One tip: you will be walking lots and sightseeing, so stay hydrated, carry a refillable water bottle, I have an insulated one. It keeps your drink cold for hours, which is great for the hot days in Italy.

❌What NOT to Wear in Italy

You want to retain your own style and image, and that’s what I’m urging you to do – but there are some definite cultural distinctions when it comes to clothing in Italy.

The (often flawed) ‘native’ Italians have elevated fashion to a high art of which they’re understandably proud. It centers on two key words – suave and gravoso – which I’d best translate, rather misleadingly, as ‘sophisticated’ and ‘dignified’.

Here, then, are some items you might well disregard when deciding what to pack if you don’t want to stand out for the wrong reasons.

Overly Revealing Clothing

Italy is a country where modesty is given high consideration, particularly in some regions and religious sites, so dress codes are frequently in place at churches and cathedrals, where one is expected to have shoulders and knees covered.

Do not wear crop tops, short shorts or plunging necklines into the Vatican and other sacred sites; higher necklines (no off-the-shoulder styles) and dresses or tops with knee-length skirts are a far better choice. In case there is a need for extra covering, take a light fabric scarf or shawl with you.

Leggings & Athleisure

In the rest of the world, athleisurewear has become a staple of people’s wardrobes, but don’t expect Italians to sport their lycra outside the gym; it just looks too casual or sloppy for everyday use.

Stick with comfortable, but not slouchy, fittings: jeans, tailored pants, or casual dresses are always a good bet.

Basketball Shorts & Jean Shorts

Both basketball shorts and jean cut-off shorts are viewed as too cool and informal for Italian tastes, even in the thick of the summer when the heat is beating down. Tailored shorts or lightweight skirts are a better option.

Not only are they cooler than jean shorts, but they also integrate better with the understated elegance of Italian fashion.

Casual T-Shirts & Flip-Flops

Very usable but very casual, print graphic tees and flip-flops are closely tied to beach looks more than to urban ones. Italians tend to lean more toward a smart, fitted top like a blouse or a shirt to give an everyday outfit a special edge.

Footwear, on the other hand, can be sandals or cool sneakers, which add a fashionable upgrade on flip-flops. Keep the flip-flops for the beach and opt for cute sandals, loafers or ballet flats for a city stroll.

Best Suitcases for Italy

Suitcases

You could make an entire article about this, but the choice of the suitcase could decide whether your Italian vacation will be a success or a disaster. What you need, first and foremost, is a light aircraft-type suitcase (think of those trolleys that move around an airport illuminated by the lights of planes coming in at night). It should be made of a durable material but not too heavy.

It should be wheeled to fit those cobblestone streets in a town square or a busy train station. It should have a zipper with a reliable mechanism, and a sturdy construction that won’t open unexpectedly in a suitcase carousel or after being thrown around in the luggage compartment of a bus, train or a plane. It will likely have some kind of covering to keep out water in case of any mishaps, a hard-shell or an expandable variant.

Packing Cubes

And organisation is key when you’re travelling between several destinations in Italy. Packing cubes can be the difference between your outfits being stored in a neatly sorted pile and your suitcase being a hopeless jumble. Group your outfits by type or destination and instantly unpack as little as needed. Use coloured cubes to distinguish between different categories or people for further ease of access – no rooting around endless piles of clothes required.

❓ Italy Outfits FAQ

Are Leggings Appropriate to Wear in Italy?

Comfortable, yes, but leggings aren’t everyday wear in Italy – not even slim-fit ones. Think flowy pants, tailored trousers, or jeans that are well-fitting. Layer them under dresses or long tops (particularly in more air-conditioned parts of Italy, or for long flights).

Do People Wear Jeans in Italy?

Why yes, you most definitely can! If anything, Italians are a bit more particular when it comes to the cut and fit of their jeans. Try to steer clear of anything baggy, but stylishly distressed jeans or a dark-wash are good choices. Keep the outfit polished by wearing your jeans with a pretty blouse or blazer, which will allow you to go from sightseeing during the day to a drink at aperitivo hour without a change of clothes.

Where to Shop for Italy Outfits

Whenever I am preparing for my next trip to Italy, I definitely like to stop in at my favourite stores for a bit of wardrobe revamping: Zara, Brandy Melville, Subdued, Bershka… the essential blend of modern and classic that can blend into the Italian style. Here are more options to shop.

Local Boutiques:

Boutique shopping in Milan, Florence and Rome can reveal timeless items inspired by everyday Italian style. The most stylish shopping destinations are via Montenapoleone in Milan and via Condotti in Rome for small shops with cutting-edge designers.

Outdoor Markets:

Visit an outdoor market such as Florence’s San Lorenzo Market or Rome’s Campo de’ Fiori for traditional dress wear from Italy or artisan-made clothing – they’re great for one-offs.

European Fashion Chains:

There’s Zara and Bershka, but European chains such as Massimo Dutti and Mango also have stylish, affordable pieces, and they often carry collections unavailable in other stores, giving you the advantage of being able to find styles in Italy that haven’t been done to death.

Luxury Designer Stores:

If you are looking for high-end splurges, look for stylish Italian brands such as Gucci, Valentino or Dolce Gabbana, whose flagship stores will bring a bit of Milan’s or Rome’s fashion runways with them.

Department Stores and Shopping Centers:

Go to Italy’s luxury department store chain, Rinascente, which sells a selection of international and Italian brands. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, in the heart of Milan, is a high-end shopping mall with both luxury and accessible fashion.

Online Retailers:

And if you want a head start on outfit inspiration, online retailers such as Farfetch, Yoox or Matches Fashion all stock European brands and Italian design.