As you prepare your summer packing list for Rome, envision a vacation of discovery and style. When exploring the city’s historic sites, cultural institutions, and picturesque piazzas, comfortable and stylish attire is essential. Loose-fitting summer dresses are perfect for beating the heat while strolling through Rome’s charming streets, taking in the breathtaking views and snapping photos to capture memories of your trip.
Whether you’re walking from one iconic landmark to another or simply soaking up the sun-drenched atmosphere, a chic yet practical wardrobe will ensure you look and feel great throughout your Roman adventure.
What to Pack for a Summer Trip to Rome?
When it comes to planning a trip to Rome, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things to see and do. Add to that the challenge of deciding what to wear each day, and it can be a daunting task. But fear not! After conducting thorough research, we’ve compiled a list of the most stylish and practical outfit combinations perfect for a 2022 trip to Rome.
Important Things To Remember
Rome’s unique geography creates a distinct climate. The city’s compact layout and lack of waterfront access result in scorching temperatures and stifling humidity. High temperatures and direct sunlight only exacerbate the issue, making it crucial to pack light, breathable clothing. Linen and cotton are excellent choices for this purpose. In contrast to Rome’s ancient architecture, modern-day streets may surprise you with their rough cobblestone surfaces.
This demands careful consideration when selecting footwear. Comfortable shoes with no heels are a must for navigating the city’s historic roads. While daytime temperatures can be sweltering, evening temperatures take a dramatic plunge due to the cold stone buildings and cobblestone streets. To make the most of Rome’s nightlife, pack warm clothing. Dress codes also apply at cultural attractions like churches, where modest attire is essential.
Nothing too revealing or showing excessive shoulder skin is allowed. Additionally, consider packing a headscarf for orthodox Christian church visits. Finally, prepare to indulge in Italy’s renowned culinary experiences with stylish, yet comfortable, attire.
23 – Play Up Your Favorite Denim Shorts With The Right Blouse
While denim shorts may not be the most conventional choice for exploring Rome’s grandeur, it’s definitely possible to elevate their casual charm with a statement piece of clothing. One effective way to do this is by pairing the shorts with a satin blouse featuring an eye-catching sleeve design. The result is a stylish and unexpected look that can add a touch of sophistication to even the most laid-back ensemble.
22 – Choose Linen Shorts As An Alternative To Denim
In addition to denim shorts, we’re also highlighting a stylish alternative: linen shorts. Not only do they exude a more formal charm, but their breathability makes them an ideal choice for sizzling summer days – particularly in Rome’s scorching climate. To create a cohesive outfit, pair the green linen shorts ($24.98) with a short-sleeve blouse ($21.99)
21 – Create An All-White Look To Beat The Heat
As we explore Rome’s daytime fashion, let’s delve into the idea of creating an all-white ensemble. For this first look, pair a flowy ankle-length satin skirt with a casual white tank top. The versatility of white clothing lies in its ability to deflect sunlight and retain less heat, making it an excellent choice for daytime excursions. Consider these white dress pants outfit combinations that you might enjoy: a classic combination featuring a white midi skirt ($25.
99), a thick-strapped white tank top ($16.99), and a woven bag ($10.00)
20 – If You Need To Wear Pants, Choose White Ones
For those who prefer to wear pants during the summer months, a linen pair is an excellent option for staying cool and comfortable. As mentioned earlier, linen is a natural fabric that allows for good ventilation, making it ideal for hot weather. This means you can still enjoy wearing pants while beating the heat, without sacrificing comfort.
19 – Try Out A Matching Skirt and Top Two-Piece
Planning for a trip to Rome can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to dressing for each day. To make things easier, consider packing co-ordinated pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. For instance, a versatile tank top paired with a midi skirt in a bold print offers an effortless yet stylish combination that’s perfect for navigating the Eternal City.
By prioritizing versatile wardrobe staples like these, you’ll save time and mental energy, allowing you to focus on more important things… like indulging in delicious Italian cuisine!
18 – Diffuse An All Red Dress With Woven Accessories
Imagine yourself as a sophisticated individual, effortlessly navigating the cobblestone streets of Rome while exuding an air of mystery and elegance. To complete this captivating persona, you’ll need to pack a striking red dress that turns heads. Elevate your look with trendy woven accessories – pair the dress with a matching woven bag and espadrilles for a cohesive and stylish ensemble.
For the ultimate night out, don’t forget to perfect your look with our comprehensive Red Dress Makeup Ideas & Hairstyling Tips. To recreate this look, consider the following essentials: a red polka dotted dress ($29.99), high heeled espadrilles ($85.00), and a woven bag ($15.00).
17 – Create An Elegant Look With A White Dress And Nude Accessories
In Rome, a different outfit that’s equally fitting could be this: a flowy white cotton dress with understated nude sandals and a matching bag. The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity, which means you can forego statement accessories and let your sun-kissed arms remain unadorned. The subtle combination creates a chic, effortless vibe that’s perfect for the Eternal City.
16 – Pair Patterns With Pastel Colors For Easy Complex Outfits
Combining prints with complementary colors is an effortless way to create visually appealing outfits. A great starting point is to pair a black and white print with a soft, pastel hue. This combination offers endless possibilities for mixing and matching. For example, you could team a polka dotted skirt ($40.00) with a Pastel Pink blouse ($25.98) and add a round woven bag ($31.99) to complete the look.
15 – Pack A Short Floral Dress In Warm Tones
A staple piece for any summer wardrobe, a floral printed dress shines when paired with a bold and lively color scheme. The key to pulling off this trend successfully lies in finding a dress that hits just above the knee – not only does it create a youthful and playful vibe, but it also showcases the dress’s vibrant print to its fullest potential.
14 – Use Brown Accessories For A Formal Look
Elevate your style game by combining unexpected pieces, like a bold polka-dotted dress with earthy brown accents. Instead of the expected black shoes and bag, opt for a brown bucket bag and matching sandals to add a touch of sophistication. The key is to balance contrasting elements – in this case, the playful dots on the dress are tamed by the natural tones of the accessories. This unique combination will make you stand out from the crowd, all while keeping your overall look cohesive.
13 – Don’t Go For White Shoes With A Red and White Polka-Dotted Dress
While the previous outfit offered a playful touch with its red and white polka-dotted dress, take it to the next level by introducing an unexpected shoe choice that adds another layer of visual interest. A straightforward option would be to pair the dress with white sandals for a clean and crisp look. Alternatively, consider a nude pair that complements a nude purse, effectively creating a cohesive and striking ensemble.
12 – Elevate A Classic Little Black Dress With A Trendy Purse
When it comes to elevating a fashion-forward outfit in Rome, there’s no need to stray far from timeless fashion staples. Instead, find creative ways to build upon these classic pieces. For instance, pairing a modern shoulder purse with a little black dress can be a game-changer. The versatility of this iconic garment allows it to seamlessly blend with trendy accessories, creating a look that is both stylish and sophisticated.
Here’s how you can take your little black dress game to the next level:
11 – Go For An Asymmetric Fastening Polka Dotted Dress For Day-To-Night Looks
When packing for a trip with limited suitcase space, it’s essential to think strategically about your wardrobe options. One effective approach is to select outfits that can seamlessly transition from day to night wear. A ruffled blue asymmetric dress ($65.00) is an excellent example of such a versatile piece. Its unique design and features like long sleeves make it suitable for both daytime and evening events, ultimately streamlining your packing list.
10 – Stand Out With An XL Woven Bag
The woven purse phenomenon has taken the fashion world by storm in 2022, with an array of shapes and sizes dominating the market. To truly capitalize on this trend, why not go big or go home with an oversized woven bag that makes a statement?
9 – Pair A Stunning Mermaid Skirt With An Off The Shoulder Top
When it comes to staying cool and stylish in Italy during the summer, a mermaid skirt is an excellent choice. Its design allows for maximum airflow, making it an ideal option for hot days. To elevate your look, consider pairing the skirt with a top featuring ruffles and off-the-shoulder sleeves – you’ll be sure to turn heads. Some great options include the red off-the-shoulder top ($12.00) or the white and red polka dot mermaid skirt ($48.00).
8 – Go For A Pantsuit For An Easy Casual Outfit
When it comes to daytime outfits that are both stylish and practical, the humble pantsuit is a great option to consider. Not only do they offer ease of packing and styling, but they can also be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. To make the most of this versatile garment, look for one in a light color that won’t draw too much attention – think beige or cream – and opt for a lightweight fabric such as linen or cotton.
This will not only keep you cool and comfortable, but also prevent you from overheating in the sun. Try pairing your pantsuit with some sleek white sneakers, like the belted nude pantsuit ($69.90) paired with women’s white sneakers ($51.00), for a chic and put-together look that’s perfect for a day out.
7 – Contrast A Long Lacey Dress With Grungy Accessories
Give your classic lacey white dress a trendy twist by pairing it with unexpected accessories that create a bold contrast. Swap traditional shoes for edgy boots, opt for dramatic black sunglasses instead of subtle shades, and consider adding some rough-around-the-edges jewelry to complete the look. This clever combination will instantly elevate the overall style of your outfit.
6 – Short White Dress For A Dinner In Rome
Envision a warm Italian evening, where the soft glow of streetlamps casts a romantic ambiance. For this outfit, imagine yourself blending seamlessly into the surroundings, like a delicate white flower amidst lush greenery. This understated yet charming ensemble is perfect for a fancy dinner date. The focal point is a small ruffle sleeve white dress ($34.00), its simplicity elevated by the subtle texture of the ruffles. Pair it with brown faux leather sandals ($29.
30) and you’ll exude effortless elegance, as if you’ve just stepped out of a Tuscan vineyard at dusk.
5 – Find A Linnen Costume In A Vibrant Color For An Evening Look
When the Roman evenings turn out to be unexpectedly cool, it’s essential to dress in a way that maintains warmth and style. A jacket and shorts co-ord is an excellent choice for such occasions. To enhance functionality while still looking great, opt for pieces made from breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. For instance, you could consider the Mind linen co-ord ($33.99), paired with brown faux leather sandals ($21.99) and a striped long sleeve (brown) ($15.00).
4 – Choose A Unique Tie-Dye Dress
Tie-dye, often associated with the 60s and 70s counterculture, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as a stylish pattern for dresses. When done thoughtfully, it can add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. One way to incorporate tie-dye into your wardrobe is by applying it sparingly to a dress design. This results in a perfect summer look for a night out or special occasion. Here are some additional ideas on how to wear tie-dye outfits and make the most of this trendy pattern.
3 – Pair Laquer Flats With A Vintage Looking Dress
When exploring the charming cobblestone streets of Rome, you may want to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. While we still recommend avoiding heels altogether, these sleek black lacquer flats offer a stylish solution. Consider pairing them with a vintage-inspired green dress for a chic and timeless look.
2 – Accessorise A White Dress With Large Earrings
The deep neck cut has taken center stage in the world of fashion, particularly with dresses. To maximize its impact and draw attention to the chest area, it’s best to skip the necklace altogether. Instead, go for bold earrings that add a touch of glamour to this stunning dress. For instance, you could opt for the Deep Square Cut White Dress ($78.00)
1 – Find A Black Dress With A Box Cut And Full Sleeves For Dinner
A black dress can be elevated to dinner-worthy status by incorporating the right elements. The unique box-cut chest silhouette is a game-changer, making it stand out from the crowd. When paired with ruffled sleeves, you’ll have a truly one-of-a-kind dress that turns heads. For a stylish and affordable option, consider the Black Deep Square Cut Dress, priced at just $16.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What should you not wear in Rome?
When exploring the culturally rich city of Rome, it’s essential to dress accordingly. Ditch the casual attire and opt for more sophisticated pieces that reflect the city’s elegance. Consider incorporating light floral prints into your outfit, swapping graphic t-shirts for a more refined option. For bottoms, trade in basic denim jeans for linen shorts that exude a stylish, Mediterranean vibe.
Finally, upgrade from white sneakers to authentic espadrilles, which will add a touch of Italian flair to your overall look.
Q. Can I wear flip flops in Rome?
While it may be tempting to reach for your trusty flip-flops when exploring Rome’s ancient streets, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort and practicality. The Eternal City is not renowned for its beachside scenery, and those same sandals will quickly become a hindrance on the cobblestone pavements. The constant risk of tripping over your own feet or struggling to take more than a few steps at a time can swiftly turn an otherwise memorable experience into a frustrating one.
A more suitable choice would be lightweight yet secure footwear, such as sandals or espadrilles, which offer breathability while keeping your feet protected and supported. For expert advice on selecting the perfect walking shoes for your European adventure, refer to our earlier post, Best Walking Shoes for Europe Trip.