When In Europe… What to Wear?
For a more detailed and updated European packing guide, please skip this post and read my popular post What to Wear in Europe this Summer.
Can anybody answer this question for me? We leave for Italy in eleven days and are stumped on what to pack. Packing for the beach is easy. I got that down. Throw in some swim trunks, t-shirts, shorts, a few polos, and maybe even a pair of slacks. Done. But Europe, especially Italy, is different with its pretentiousness towards clothes. I have done plenty of research in guidebooks, blogs, and online forums. Advice really runs the gamut leaving us even more stymied.
Blend In At All Costs –Stick to a strict no sneakers, no shorts, and no jeans rule. After all, you don’t want to stand out as an American tourist. Instead, dress like a European with high fashion in mind. USA Today suggests dark trousers and a sport coat. Really? But I’m travelling and I’m an American! I don’t think I can hide that even if I am a quarter Italian. I still have a fair complexion. Plus, I’ll be walking and overheating and want to be comfortable. Black slacks with leather dress shoes and a sweater tied around my neck does not sound comfortable.
Practical Works Best – Flip the coin and you have Steve Ricks (or is it Rick Steves?). His episodes on European travel skills are quite valuable. I admit to watching them numerous times. But his tips on packing and dressing with practicality seem a bit extreme to me. According to Rick, one carryon and one day bag should be enough for two weeks or two months. He either doesn’t sweat, doesn’t mind being that guy who nobody stands too close to in line, or doesn’t mind doing laundry. That’s not me. I do sweat and I don’t like doing laundry when I’m home so I’ll be damned if I’m doing it on vacation. Plus, I don’t want to look like a hillbilly again like we did last year at the opera in Vienna.
I understand packing light, but I don’t buy the no regular size suit case argument. Last year we managed with a suitcase, a carryon, and a day bag for eleven days and four destinations in Bavaria. We didn’t have enough clothes and lugging the regular size suitcase was not as difficult as Steve makes it sound. And yes, we did take the Eurorail.
Dress How You Are – Many contributors to Fodor’s forum argue against blending in and tell you to look around at everyone else. Anything goes while travelling. Remember, you are on vacation so be comfortable. Sneakers? If you’re doing a lot of walking, wear them! Shorts? If it’s hot, why not! Jeans? From faded and ripped to designer, make your own fashion statement! Besides, do you think Europeans worry about what to wear and blending in when travelling to the United States? I doubt it. I personally lean more towards this camp. At the same time, I don’t want to be a target for pickpockets.
Help us pack for Italy! We are going the last two weeks in May and our Itinerary includes three days in Venice, seven on a culinary tour of Tuscany, and four in Rome. How should we pack to be comfortable, practical, and yet still blend in?
UPDATE – There is a lot to read and absorb in the comments section. Below is a summary to help save you time.
Also, be sure to check out my Travel Resources page for more on travel tools and gear that I find helpful after eight years of near constant travel.
Security
- Buy a Money Belt to keep your money and passports away from pickpockets.
- Avoid using traditional backpacks as they are easily stolen
- Men should wear a secure “man bag” like one from Pacsafe
Clothing
- Throw in a lightweight jacket for cool evenings
- Loose linen clothes are ideal because the materials breathes
- Chose a bowling style shoe over white sneakers
- Long pants are preferred over shorts
- Chose darker colors over pastels
- No white socks! Don’t even think about it!
- Pack easy dry clothes incase in rains like Adventure Pants from REI or Champion C-9 from Target
- Pack light clothes that you can layer
For more great travel tips, be sure to sign up for our newsletter!
The month of May can be hot and humid in Italy – throw in a light weight jacket for the evenings, especially for Venice since you’re on the water.. Remember, you’ll be walking everywhere and in many places their streets are uneven cobblestone (Tuscany) – bring your most comfortable shoes. When in Venice, go to the top of the Hotel Denali and have a drink overlooking the Grand Canal. When in Rome, be sure to visit the Villa Borgaise (sp?). I would bring loose linen, something that breathes, yes it wrinkles. Solid colors you can mix n’ match. Perhaps a very light weight shawl/wrap to add to your attire (ladies). Don’t wear a fanny pack or a back pack. Buy one of those money belts or something that hangs around your neck under your top. You can also put your passport in the neck hanger.
Thanks for the good advice. What’s the harm of a back pack? Rick Steve’s says a day bag (back pack) is okay. I have a camera that I am taking. Yes, I know that is touristy, but….I am a tourist after all and a soon to be world famous blogger! A back pack sounds like a great place to store a camera.
Hi there, back packs are easily stolen and easily unzipped to remove items when your back is to the culprit – especially in Rome, We took the Metro a lot in Rome and bp’s are cumbersome in a packed subway. And, they are easily forgotten when parked under a table.
Be sure to enjoy a daily gelato – about 2 euros – delicious!
If you are in Florence, be sure to walk up to the Domo. It’s a lot of steps but worth the climb. And, take a bus up to Firenze (sp?), it overlooks Florence – beautiful! Sienna (Tuscany) is a cool little town – one of my favorites. Enjoy lunch on the piazza. Ciao!
The backpack theft argument makes sense. Going to check a local travel shop this week for better options. Thanks!
Can’t really help you. I’ve been in the land of fur and gold boots for too long. But probably don’t wear that. 😉
Dang! I just took my gold boots out of my suitcase.
My #1 travel rule: be comfortable. When we’re in Europe, I try to be reasonable (I leave my white sneakers at home and opt for a more Euro-like bowling shoe sneaker). But Italian women — they wear heels. Skyscraper heels. And they wear them everywhere, even on cobblestones. I’d break my ankle, and nothing will ruin your vacation faster than feet that can’t walk. Another thought — Euros don’t wear shorts like we do, especially the women. Wear slacks or capris. Never athletic shorts, unless you’re actually doing something athletic. And opt for darker colors over brights and pastels. A scarf is a nice compromise . . . Euros LOVE the scarf — men and women, winter or summer.
Enjoy your trip . . . eat lots of food . . . drink lots of wine! Salute!!
One question I have is on shorts. What about the hill towns of Tuscany? Will dress be more relaxed there? Can I wear shorts? I overheat easily and prefer shorts. Not redneck jean shorts, but nice, khaki shorts with a pair of Berks.
I wouldn’t stress about the shorts . . . if you’re more comfortable in shorts, wear the shorts. I’ve tried to blend by fashion, and I’m still pegged as an American. They just know. Embrace it . . . enjoy it!! A side note on shorts though . . . if you plan on visiting any Italian churches or cathedrals, be prepared to switch to pants. And women — tuck a scarf into a bag so you can cover up. Italians are pretty serious about naked shoulders in most churches, but you’ll find some churches are more strict about that than others. Salute!!
I am an American afterall…. shorts it will be (except churches).
My new shoes to wear are Cole Hahns, because some have Nike Air in them. Right now I got these shoes that look like bowling shoes with the Air tech, so I am thinking those cover the comfortable as runners/sneakers/tennis shoes and stylish? One thing to get rid of is the white athletic socks. I, too, was reaching at the bottom of the barrel of clothes on a backpacking trip and a girl from San Fran spotted me. Literally, the first words she said “I knew you were American” and highlighted my socks. Good travels and can’t wait to read the posts!
I appreciate the advice on shoes. I have a pair of “bowling shoes” that are very stylish but not comfortable. I think I’ll look for a pair of Cole Hahns this weekend. I may break your advice on white socks. Something about white socks just says comfortable to me…:)
I think, you need to reach out to Uncle Mike & Aunt Alice. I know, they have the answers to all your questions.
I am calling them tonight. We have lots of questions for them.
Haha, I totally empathise with this post!
Europeans (and I speak as one) can spot an American from a mile away, it’s not just your clothing or the fact that you probably have a massive camera hung around your neck, but because you guys are so loud(!). I’m not sure there’s any hiding that.
In which case I think just wear whatever the hell you want. If you want to look smarter and blend in then dark colours (or skinny jeans), with some smart leather shoes is how trousers we roll. You have to remember that Europeans are so used to wearing these types of clothes that they are comfortable to us – and those shoes which might look uncomfortable have probably be worn in so they are as comfortable as your sneakers!
On the loudness point…I won’t deny that. But, compared to Italians, are we that loud?
The camera issue keeps coming up. I have one. I am bringing one. I am told not to hang it around your neck, don’t use a camera bag or fanny pack, and no backpacks. How do I carry my camera then? I am not leaving it at home. I am a tourist after all.
Italians are loud yes, but they are loud in Italian not English! Hence you will attract attention.
To be European you need a little sneaky camera & a man bag (Italian men love those little cross body things). But you are on holiday & you are American so just do as you please!
I am going to look for a cross body thing this weekend. That should cover my camera. Thank you for all the advice. You have been super!
Oops I meant to post a link for you to get some inspiration: http://www.thesartorialist.com/
On the further north you head in Italy the smarter it is and big cities are smarter than little towns 🙂
What about Tuscany? Are shorts accepted?
Yes especially in the countryside and in Rome too. Italians are more likely to wear city shorts with a shirt a la image 2. http://sharpgents.com/2010/01/fillipa-k-ss-09-10/
Or more likely trousers rolled up to show off their Prada shoes!
City shorts are closer to what I would wear anyway.
And I meant *dark coloured trousers
Ha ha! I’m in the same boat. I have to wear sneakers. With orthotics. I’m going to look American. I settled on comfort and just wearing stuff I happen to like. What else can one do? Oh… I did buy a looser fitting pair of jeans that also have spandex in them so I can accommodate all the chocolate croissants I plan to eat in Paris. And I know what to say when offered seconds of aforementioned croissants or, if it’s later in the day, what to say when offered wine and brie: “Mais Oui, Monsieur (or Madame). Merci.”
Have fun!! And thanks for stopping by my blog.
I like hte spandex idea. The week in Tuscany is a culinary tour….
I hate it when people turn it into dressy Vs comfortable. You can have both you know! Skechers makes a lot of cute comfy shoes with sneaker type soles. Merrell and Clarks are also good looking but comfy.
It is actually very easy to travel with just a carry on. The best website is onebag.com. The key to it is to pack a travel capsule wardrobe of tops that layer/mix/match with the bottoms. You can get 30 or so outfits from 9 or 10 pieces. Also bring light weight pieces. They work in hot weather but can be layered up when it gets cooler. Instead of shorts consider a knee length skort, a skirt, or capris. They will be accepted in more places. And a light weight knit dress in a dark color can be dressed up or down. Wear your money belt under your clothes and consider a cross body bag for a “purse” (easier to keep track of than a backpack). Men should consider a “man bag” or guide bag. As far as guys go, there are several very light weight pants out there. The REI adventure pant is light and drys quickly when washed. Champion C-9 brand makes quick dry underwear and polo shirts (available at Target)
Yes, you have to do laundry every few days. But many hotels have laundry services. Turn your laundry in to the desk in the morning, pick it up when you come back from site seeing. And wash your undies in the sink and let them dry overnight.
Anyway, you can have comfort AND style AND travel light. You just have to pack the right stuff.
Very, very helpful! Brands, stores, and all! Thanks a ton! I am guessing your blog will provide even more helpful hints. Can you tell me more about “man bag”. What do they look like? Where can I get one?
You’re looking for something with a slim profile – that will allow you to go into museums without having to check a bag (they force you to check packs) . Also something that has a cross body strap so you can swing the bag in front of you when you get into pick-pocket territory (like public transit). It should be able to hold a windbreaker, your working wallet, a collapsible water bottle, sunglasses, and guidebook. Maybe an iPad if that is your desire.
Well, on the Mediterranean area there is summer. If You travel on the continent then there can be cold winds occasionally although it would be warm. Also You should be aware about how high is sea level. In the mountains it is cooler than at the seaside.
Good advise! Thank you!
I entirely agree about not trying to stuff everything into carry-on bags. We always do checked bags for our 3-week overseas trips. AND you can stuff them full of bottles of wine for the return trip! We also have the luxury of having a rental car to keep things in, though, so it might not be as easy if you’re doing a lot of rail travel…
The full size suitcase on the rail was no issue at all. This talk of carry-ons for two weeks of stuff is crazy talk. Even Europeans lug big suitcases.
Hi and thanks for reading my blog on Panama. Love the article on what to wear!
Hey Mary! Any tips you can offer from your travel experiences?
We are going to the opera in Venice in a few weeks – any suggestions? What did people wear in Vienna? Thanks for the post – this is going to really help us pack!
That’s a tough question to answer. The opera in Vienna wasn’t the nicest opera house in town. We went to Volkstheatre (the People’s Theater). Anything went with clothing from jeans to suits and cocktail dresses. I would imagine at one of the nicer opera houses patrons would dress nicer, meaning no jeans. What type of opera are you going to in Venice? The actual opera? More of a tourist focused opera? The main opera house or a more casual one like Volks?
Thank you for liking my post on Auckland. I hope your trip to Italy went well. Do visit Auckland some time. Dress tends to be pretty casual, so I think you’ll fit in comfortably in your jeans there!
Take a change of shoes. No matter how comfortable your favorite sneakers/sandals/shoes are, you WILL get blisters or sore feet from being in the same shoes all the time. Thanks for visiting me!
Thanks for your comment! The trip to Italy came and went a year ago. But you are correct. It’s a lot of walking and the feet get tired.
I have gone 3 months with only a 25 litters backpack and do not understand how anyone can carry a large bag to travel. It can get expensive on budget airlines as well. I am going around the world with that for possibly years. I can tell you that it does not smell. I am a solo traveler so it is hard to carry around a massive suitcase especially if walking a couple of miles to a hotel room. Big suite cases are for travelers who just really see it as a simple vacation,are not big campers and are attached to their belongings. That basically means most people. You have to be a certain sort of person to do this.
I have seen jeans, shorts and bright colors all over Europe. Especially in big cities. Skinny jeans are very popular. White sneakers and socks are not and are really not functional either. Smart wool socks are as they absorb sweat. As are brown or black hikers. I don’t even own a pair of white socks and could blend in easier because i probably had a more EU fashion sense to begin with. Of course I can’t blend-in in Greece or Italy but until speaking i did very well in Germany, The Netherlands and countries with fair skin. It’s not as hard as travel bloggers suggest.
Thanks for your comment! Great suggestions!