What Dresses to Wear in Italy

Wondering What Dresses to Pack for Italy?
Planning what to wear in Italy starts with one thing: dresses. Think breezy styles made for twirling through Tuscan towns, linen looks that keep you cool under the Roman sun, and flowy fits perfect for golden hour on the Amalfi Coast. Whether your trip is packed with sightseeing or slow mornings at a sidewalk café, the right dress makes it easy to feel cute and comfortable every step of the way.
Understanding Italian Style: How to Dress Like a Local
In Italy, fashion is more than just clothes—it’s a lifestyle. Locals live by la bella figura, a mindset centered around making a good impression through polished, put-together style. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about looking effortlessly chic, even when you’re just grabbing a gelato.
Italy Style Do’s:
Do pack tailored pieces that feel elevated but still comfy for a day full of sightseeing.
Do bring your best quality staples—Italians love timeless, well-made looks.
Do wear stylish, walkable shoes (cobblestones are no joke!)
Italy Style Don’ts:
Don’t go too casual (leave the gym clothes and flip-flops at home)
Don’t overpack—smart staples you can rewear > suitcase overload
Don’t show too much skin if you’re sightseeing. Churches require covered shoulders and knees, so keep a lightweight layer handy just in case!
What Dresses to Wear in Italy by Occasion
Packing for Italy is all about looking cute without overstuffing your suitcase. Stick to staple pieces you can mix, match, and rewear—think airy dresses, neutral layers, and comfy-cute shoes. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when you're rolling your carry-on over cobblestone streets.
Midi Dresses for Sightseeing & Cultural Stops
Think easygoing and polished. A flowy midi dress or a matching set with comfy sneakers is perfect for exploring ruins, museums, and cute little side streets. Don’t forget a light layer—like a soft shrug or tie-front blouse—especially if you’re popping into churches.
Maxi Dresses For Dinner Dates & Apertivio Hour
Golden hour in Italy calls for effortless glam. Try a strappy maxi dress or a sleek jumpsuit paired with block heels or dressy flats. Add a statement earring and a mini bag, and you're set for sipping spritzes under string lights.
Sundresses For Coastal Days by the Beach
Keep it simple and beachy with a flowy sundress or a cover-up that’s easy to slip on after a swim. These styles are perfect for strolling seaside towns, grabbing gelato by the water, or heading to lunch with salty hair and sunkissed skin. Add a stylish swimsuit underneath and a wide-brim hat to channel that effortless dolce vita vibe.
Shop Our Favorite Italian Dresses
Italy Packing List: Shop The Essentials
Sundresses
Midi Dresses
Maxi Dresses
Knit Shrugs
Cotton Cardigans
Blouses
Tank Tops
Shorts or Structured Skorts
A-Line Midi Skirts
High-Waisted Pants
Rompers
Matching Co-Ords
Sleeveless Jumpsuits
One-Piece Swimsuit
Cover-ups
Wide-Brim Hats
UV-Protective Sunglasses
Roomy Woven Beach Bags
Bold Statement Earrings
Compact Crossbody or Mini Bags
Polished Gold Hoops
Lightweight Scarves
Sandals
White Sneakers
Comfy Flats