When traveling in Italy, don’t ever wear short skirts. Even if you see Italian models wearing them, it is not considered the norm. Men will see it as an invitation to grab your bottom and pinch you. There’s an unfortunate stereotype that North Americans are ‘easy’, and this will only further that idea. Sneakers are only worn for playing sports like soccer, but you can get away with them if you must. Don’t wear sneakers to restaurants however. Good comfortable leather shoes are more appropriate. In religious places it is considered immoral to dress too revealingly and they will not let women in with their arms showing or a short skirt. Skirts must be ankle length, or wear pants. Carry a light sweater to throw on over your arms. Jeans are not rare among the younger kids, but don’t wear them baggy. Italy is the fashion capital of the world! To blend in wear fitted pants (or if you must wear jeans make sure they are snug for both men and women). Money belts and fanny packs make you stick out as a tourist. I’d suggest a purse, leather totebag or backpack. I would not suggest you wear clothing specific to other ethnic groups if you want to blend in though here has been more ethnic diversity in recent years. Deodorant is not common in Italy and is very difficult to find, so pack your own ahead of time. Some people suggest bringing a silk scarf along to cover your arms for a church but you will only look silly. Remember above all churches are places of worship; if they have art there that’s only secondary. Remember to respect the people worshipping there by trying to dress appropriately. Hope this was helpful!

Shanna, New York, USA

Pants were fine, especially the black, gray and khaki. Blue Jeans are not as commonly worn as they are in the United States, however one or two pair would be okay, depending on your packing practices. I went on an excursion to a village on the Mediterranean Sea. I wore long khakis which were great for the time of year and the visit to the cathedral. I wish however that I brought some shorts for the beach since my pants got wet from trying to wade.

Marsha, Ohio, USA

I visited St. Peter’s in Rome during the summer which is very hot and humid. To other JourneyWomen I suggest wearing a skirt which covers your knees. What I did was to carry a skirt and a scarf in my small travel bag. I would wear my skirt on top of my shorts and cover my shoulders with my scarf. That way I was sure to fit in anywhere — since sometimes they don’t even accept long Bermuda shorts. I would also suggest those zipped shorts-pants. You could add the bottom parts of your pants when needed. This advice is also good for most churches in Italy.

Sophie, Quebec, Canada

Don’t wear sleeveless or strapless clothes if you intend on visiting churches, even if it’s just to view the art. A cardigan, scarf, or short sleeved shirt/blouse to cover-up will come in handy. Also, no matter where you go, you could feel dumpy and under-dressed in comparison to the well-dressed Italian women so make sure you are comfortable and stylish by dressing in a classical & minimalist way. This leaves room for the accessories you are sure to buy while in Italy.

Joelle, Halifax, Canada

I studied abroad in Italy last year, and one of the things I learned was how important fashion is to the Italians. Call me naive, but I felt tennis shoes and jeans were the perfectly logical choice for long day trips and weekend excursions. I stuck out like a sore thumb at the beginning… then I learned. It’s not that dressing casually is all that bad–it just gives you away as an American, which would be good and bad in certain situations. Comfortable yet classy shoes are a great asset, as are quality–but not necessarily extravagant–handbags. After all, as I forgot, Italy is one of the fashion capitals of the world. “When in Rome…”

Jennifer Bryant, Athens, Georgia

When you travel in Italy, wear long, loose, comfortable skirts with flowing long-sleeved blouses. Short, tight skirts, shorts, and bare arms are not permitted in the many churches one might visit there.

Mary Smith, Oakdale, USA

I traveled in Italy and would like to pass along this advice. When visiting St. Peter’s in Rome make sure your shoulders are covered and that your shorts or skirt comes to your knees. The guards will NOT let you in if you do not meet these requirements.

Stephanie, Philadelphia, USA