What to Wear in Italy This Summer: 15 Chic Outfit Ideas
Italy in summer is sheer magic: sun-drenched piazzas, cobblestone alleyways and coastal getaways.
When I first started mapping out my summer trip I knew I wanted to merge style with practicality in what I wore.
Strolling through quaint villages, soaking up the coast, dining beneath the stars — every occasion called for an outfit that felt just right.
This guide contains 15 chic outfit ideas for your Italian summer adventures, from breezy dresses to versatile accessories.
Whether you’re lusting around Rome or sipping limoncello in Capri, these ideas will keep you chic and comfy.
1. Maxi Dress for Exploring Cities
A lightweight maxi dress is ideal for walking around Italy’s historic cities, such as Rome or Florence.
The fabric will help you stay cool and the length will shield your legs from the midday sun.
I styled mine with strappy sandals and a crossbody bag for hands-free ease.
Throw on some shades and you’re ready to hit the sights in effortless style.
2. Linen Pants and a Button-Up Shirt
Linen is your BFF in the Italian summer heat — it breathes and looks effortlessly chic.
I paired linen pants tucked a button-up for a comfortable yet polished look.
Italy’s colorful backdrops, however, lend themselves well to neutral tones like beige or white.
Pair with leather sandals and a wide-brimmed hat to complete this ageless look.
3. A Simple Midi Skirt and Fitted Tank Top
Midi skirts are the ideal compromise between glamorous and down-to-earth in Italy’s summers.
For a more feminine option, I decided to wear a flowy floral skirt with a fitted tank top.
This outfit is perfect for casual days of exploration, or even dinner al fresco.
Be sure to do some delicate gold jewelry to elevate the look.
4. Jumpsuit for Coastal Adventures
A jumpsuit is a one-piece wonder — perfect for day trips to the Amalfi Coast or the Cinque Terre.
My lightweight, sleeveless jumpsuit gave me the freedom of a dress while keeping me polished — I loved that.
Pair it with espadrilles and a woven tote for an air of beachy whimsy.
Bonus: It can easily go from day to night.
5. Shorts and an Off-the-Shoulder Top
Select tailored shorts with an off-the-shoulder blouse for a casual yet playful style.
This combo is great for lazy mid-afternoons wandering through markets or eating gelato.
I wore light colors to keep cool and gave the look a simple enhancement with cute sandals and a crossbody bag.
It’s comfortable, adorable and Instagrammable.
6. Short summer dress with ruffle details
Dresses with ruffles add an element of romance that seem made for Italy’s dreamy vibe.
In Venice, I wore a midi-length ruffle dress to dinner and felt it was completely in sync with the city’s elegance.
Finish with low block heels and a sleek clutch for a polished touch.
Choose flower prints or pastel colors if you want to stand out.
7. Lightweight Blouse and High-Waisted Trousers
For a put-together but relaxed look, try a flowy blouse tucked into high-waisted trousers.
I got a lot of work out of this outfit in Milan, where style is married to function.
I paired it with pointed-toe flats and a boxy bag to ensure it is city-wise.
Add a sheer scarf for a more elegant touch.
8. Evening Elegance — Classic Wrap Dress
A wrap dress is flattering, easy to pack and moves seamlessly from day to night.
I wore one in Positano, and it seemed appropriate for a sunset dinner overlooking the sea.
Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or silk to stay comfortable.
Finish the look by styling it with delicate earrings and wedges.
9. Cropped Palazzo Pants and a Sleeveless Top
Palazzo pants are a summer must — airy, stylish and so versatile.
I styled mine with a close-fitting sleeveless top for a sleek silhouette.
This outfit was a favorite for walking the narrow streets of Siena and finding hidden gems.
Finish with platform sandals and a shoppy bag.
10. Denim Shorts and an Easy White Shirt
For more casual days, denim shorts and a crisp white shirt never fail.
For a relaxed feel while wandering around Lake Como I knotted my shirt at the waist.
Style with comfortable sneakers or slip-on espadrilles for all-day walking.
It is such a classic combo that it is always a bit effortless and cool among Italy’s sunny backgrounds.
11. Sheer Cover-Up Over a Swimsuit
If you’re off to Italy’s beautiful beaches, bring along a stylish cover-up to toss on while lounging by the water.
Over my swimsuit I wore a long sheer kaftan and I felt effortless and glamorous in Capri.
Pair it with some oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for some major vacation energy.
This ensemble carries you from beach to coastal café with flair.
12. Statement Accessories with Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
A wide-leg jumpsuit is a one-and-done ensemble that oozes contemporary elegance.
I dressed mine up with statement earrings and a chunky belt for some added pizzazz.
This was my favorite spot for rooftop cocktails in Florence.
Ultra-chic when teamed with a black or navy solid color.
13. Nautical Striped T-Shirt Dress with Style
Stripes are summer, and a t-shirt dress is both comfy and cute.
I wore mine, for example, while walking along the Amalfi Coast and I felt very much aligned with the beachy spirit.
Draw on a sporty element with white sneakers and a crossbody bag.
It packs well and works at nearly any casual outing.
14. Maxi Skirt with a Crop Top
A high-waisted maxi skirt with a crop top is airy and flattering.
I wore this combo in the Tuscan countryside—it’s feminine but practical.
Pair with flat sandals and a straw hat for an easy, boho vibe.
It’s perfect for vineyard tours or leisurely hours of the afternoon.
15. Romper with Playful Prints
And, if you’re looking for a look with less effort but that still looks adorable, a romper is the move on active days.
I chose a floral-printed one for a day visiting Pompeii — it was chic and easy to move in.
Wear with sneakers for walking or wedges for a dressy look.
It’s a functional but also fun one-piece wonder.
