How to Dress Smartly for Travel in Italy

Dressing smartly is about more than just looking good; it's about being comfortable in your environment and blending in with local culture. By following a few tips to prepare for your Italian adventure, you'll enjoy "la dolce vita."

Things You'll Need

• Pants or long skirts
• Lightweight jacket or shawl
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Money belt
• Comfortable shoes

Instructions

1. Pack clothes that fit well and are conservative. Italians tend to dress less casually than Americans, so leave skin-baring items like miniskirts and shorts at home.

2. Invest in a pair of comfortable leather shoes. Flat shoes or sandals with good supports are recommended for walking the numerous cobblestone-paved streets and sidewalks that lead to museums, churches, archaeological sites and historical areas.

3. Wear a money belt hidden under your clothes to carry your cash, credit cards and identification.

4. Respect dress codes for churches. Bring a cardigan or shawl to cover tank tops or short-sleeved shirts, and wear knee-length skirts or long pants.

5. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or parasol and a pair of dark sunglasses for trips to archaeological sites and other sunny attractions.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid wearing items that mark you as a tourist and, thus, an obvious target for pickpockets. Jeans, fanny packs, socks with sandals and white athletic shoes are notoriously worn by Americans.

• Dress codes for churches are strictly enforced. Though they house much of Italy's beautiful art, the churches are first and foremost places of worship. Visitors are expected to dress and act respectfully.