Styled for rome
What to Wear in Rome
Eternal City Style Guide from a Seasoned Expat Stylist
The most common question I get when friends or clients are traveling to Rome is where and how they can find the best pizza, pasta, gelato. Because well, that is most important.
The second question is, “What do I wear?” Followed by, “I don’t have anything, I only have regular summer clothes. Nothing appropriate for ITALY.”
As a personal stylist and expat based mostly in Rome, I can say there are a few popular common misconceptions. Let me first put some of these myths to rest:
Yes, you absolutely can wear shorts in Italy and specifically in Rome, if you wish.
Sneakers are a perfect, and in my opinion smart, footwear option.
Most churches, the Vatican specifically indeed have an extremely strict dress code. You will not be allowed in if it’s not followed.
In addition to my LOOKS tab -where you can shop my outfits directly, I want to go through these common style rumors and provide my personal outfit recommendations that work best for me in Rome.
The Eternal City Dress Code
Rome is a huge, cosmopolitan city where you can find all sorts of fashion expression. Most often though, you can find pockets in the center where you will see well-dressed locals in tailored suits and sling back heels, not missing a step gliding through the cobblestone streets.
It is maybe more common for residents to put considered effort (or is it effortless chic for the Italians?) when dressing. You will rarely, if ever, see an Italian running errands in leggings or stepping out for coffee in sweatpants.
As a tourist, you are not expected to dress exactly like an Italian living in Rome. You’re on vacation, you should feel at ease! That being said, if you’re looking for fashion advice for your trip to Rome, I recommend taking your personal style one notch above ‘casual’. To create not only a comfortable Italian wardrobe but a stylish one too.
Let’s get into it.
What’s the deal with shorts?
In the summer when it reaches 90 degrees, it is absolutely acceptable for both men and women to wear shorts.
The misconception with this I believe has to do will two reasons. The first being traditional Italian style. Italians over the age of twenty (more or less) rarely wear shorts, unless at the beach.
I will never forget one morning when I was working on an island off the coast of Italy. My friend had purchased the local rate ferry ticket for me for a weekend trip to Naples. When I reached the boat, in my jean SHORTS mind you, the conductor did not accept my ticket and said I couldn’t possibly be an Italian resident. Later that night, my local friends explained that it was because of my short shorts!
The second reason is due to the notorious dress code for visiting churches.
My first time in Rome, I wore shorts to visit the Vatican and was not allowed in! I have since learned my lesson. You must cover your shoulders and I believe covered up to your knees.
It’s a sign of respect for the church and they do not allow exceptions- I know you saw Kim Kardashian visiting the Sistine Chapel in a LEATHER jacket mid-summer last year, in record breaking heat. If they aren’t above this rule, no one is.
What kind of footwear is best for Rome?
For the love of Vatican City, do not pack heels. Save the space in your suitcase, you will not use them. I tripped and fell in sneakers. There are other Italian cities where you can get away with them but don’t risk twisting an ankle in Rome.
I recommend packing a pair of comfortable sneakers for any trip. Sneakers are more popular than heels these days and you can find beautiful options that are also comfy. Check out my favorite timeless sneakers from last season here. I’ll have to create an updated list!
I live in a solid, chunky sandal. I’m talking thick sole, Velcro or stretch straps. You need a shoe that is going to protect your feet. I’m not exaggerating, those cobblestones are no joke.
Flip flops cannot be worn unless at the beach. This is not by any means a city-wide rule, it’s my professional, Lemons & Labels, Amy Christine number one rule. You only wear flip flops at a place where you will be jumping into a body of water AND they are to be packed and taken out upon arrival. My friends all know this rule, and never forget it.
But what would YOU wear in Rome?
A majority of my summer is spent in Rome. Over the past few years, I’ve developed a bit of a capsule wardrobe. Some of my style advice for the Italian capital include:
Wear your accessories. A beautiful straw hat, thin summer scarf tied in your hair, gold earrings, bold sunglasses. It’s an easy way to dress up your look with minimal effort.
Linen is your friend. It’s light weight and when sized properly can give a very flattering look. When it’s over one hundred degrees you’ll be glad you decided on this piece. Wrinkles are the least of your worries.
Lean into dresses. Almost every day in the summer I’m wearing a dress. From white minis to poplin midis, this is the perfect breezy option.
Save the athleisure for home. Challenge yourself to skip the workout set and opt for a skirt set or linen pants. Unless going on a run or headed to the gym, use these style tips to create your perfect Rome outfit.
If you have any question or would like to learn more about working with me, please feel free to reach out here or send a DM on Instagram. Have a beautiful trip!
