Travel & Cruise

June 12, 2025

What to Wear in Italy in Spring and Summer: Outfit Ideas for Women Over 40

Planning a trip to Italy this spring or summer? First of all—lucky you! Whether you’re dreaming of sipping espresso in Rome, watching the sunset in Positano, or wandering the cobblestone streets of Florence, Italy is pure magic. But figuring out what to pack can be a bit tricky, especially if you want to look put-together without overpacking or feeling like a tourist.

The good news? Italian style is all about looking effortlessly elegant. That doesn’t mean you need a suitcase full of designer clothes. It just means choosing pieces that are simple, flattering, and easy to mix and match. In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what to wear in Italy in spring and summer—so you can feel confident, stay cool, and blend in with the locals in all the best ways.

Exploring more of Europe while you’re there? Don’t miss these posts:

• Heading to Spain This Summer? Here’s What You Should Pack and Wear
• What to Wear in Greece: Stylish Vacation Outfits for Women
• What to Pack for a European Summer Vacation Over 40

What to Wear in Italy in Spring and Summer: Outfit Ideas for Women Over 40

The Italian-mindset

Before we dive into packing lists, let’s talk about the Italian approach to fashion. Italians have a reputation for style, and it’s well-earned. Even in casual clothes, they somehow manage to look polished. The key? Quality basics, tailored silhouettes, and attention to detail.

You won’t see many flip-flops, gym sneakers, or oversized logos. Instead, think linen trousers, crisp shirts, stylish sunglasses, and a great pair of sandals. Neutrals are big, but color isn’t off-limits—it’s all about balance.

What I wore in May in Italy

My Experiences in Italy

I’ve been to Italy many times over the years – Rome, Florence, Venice, Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast. In May 2025 (just recently), I vacationed in  Abruzzo, which is about 2.5 hours east of Rome on the coast. It’s a gorgeous area that’s been a bit of a hidden gem until now, with mountains on one side (some snowcapped in May!) and charming, scenic beach towns on the other side that stretch all the way down the coast. 

What was different for me this time was I had never been to Italy in the spring. We’ve always gone in the middle of summer when it’s super hot. This made it a little more challenging to know what to bring. I thought I’d pack light, with breezy sundresses, lots of sandals, maybe even a pair of pretty shorts, but our friends, whom we were meeting there and often visit Italy in the spring, told me I needed pants, jeans, long-sleeve tops, and a jacket.

What to Wear in Italy in Spring (March to May)

Spring in Italy is beautiful, but as I soon discovered, it’s also somewhat unpredictable. Mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons warm up quickly, and then it cools down again at night. There can also be cloudy skies, with rain one day and sun and warmer temps the next. Layers are your best friend this time of year. I’m so glad I knew this ahead of time because I managed to bring all the right things. 

Here’s what I recommend packing:

1. Light Jacket or Trench Coat

Bring something that can handle drizzle and still look stylish in photos. A classic beige trench or a cropped lightweight jacket works perfectly.

What I packed: I already had a light blue cropped jacket similar in style to this taupe one, so I took that. Otherwise, I would have taken this taupe on for sure! I brought my jacket everywhere we went. It came in very handy!  I also packed a tan striped peplum denim jacket, just for a change some days from the blue jacket. 

2. Sweaters and Layering Tops

Think fine-knit crewnecks or lightweight cardigans that you can throw over a dress or pair with trousers. A cashmere wrap or pashmina also comes in handy for chillier evenings or religious sites.

What I packed: I took a cute, open-knit sweater in a really nice robin’s egg blue color that felt fresh and springy. The open knit was perfect because it didn’t get too hot under my jacket. If it had gotten really chilly, I could have layered a short-sleeved tee or tank under it, but I didn’t have to.

The other layering top I took was a Spanx zip-up top, which came in handy, which I sometimes layered with a striped short-sleeve tee.  I also took a long-sleeved pink and white striped top and an aqua sweatshirt. Sometimes, I would tie the sweatshirt around my neck and wear it with a floral top.   I also brought two short-sleeved blouses, one floral and one solid color, to wear with dressy jeans for dinner.

 

3. Comfortable (but Polished) Walking Shoes

The cobblestones in historic cities like Rome and Florence will test your footwear. Bring stylish leather sneakers or slip-on loafers that can handle hours of exploring. I share lots of other great options in this post: Best Walking Shoes for Europe for Women in 2025.

I took two pairs of slip-on sneakers— one in light blue suede and the other a quilted tan pair.  And I also took a white pair like this (overpacked!) This pair would have worked just fine and saved space.

4. Tailored Pants and Dark Jeans

A slim pair of ankle-length trousers or medium to dark-wash jeans will go with everything. Skip the distressed denim—it’s not common among locals. I took three pairs of jeans: a medium-wash straight-leg pair, a medium-wash flare pair, and a very dark-wash flare pair for dinners out. They were all tailored with an even wash and no rips or fraying.

5. Midi Dresses and Skirts

Choose flowy dress or skirt silhouettes in breathable fabrics. Pair with a lightweight jacket and flats for an easy day-to-night look. Short dresses are also fine if you prefer.

I took a couple of dresses, one short and one midi, but I never wore them! That’s because it was a bit cool, and we were doing a lot of traveling up and down the coast from town to town.

It was a casual week with the other couple we met there, so everyone wore pants and jeans. Still, I’m glad I took a couple of dresses just in case. I had planned to wear a dress for dinner when we visited a friend who lives in Rome, but I ended up wearing a blouse and dressy jeans, as he was dressed casually when we arrived. It worked out perfectly.

 

6. Crossbody Bag or Small Backpack

Choose something secure and easy to carry. Pickpockets are a real concern in touristy areas, so bags that zip shut and sit close to your body are best.

I carried a sling bag; it was good, except the guitar strap was a little too prominent in photos.  If I were to do it again, I’d take this one, which is nicer because it’s a bit sleeker. I’m going to pick one up for future travel. The color is good, too.

What to Wear in Italy in Summer (June to August)

Summer in Italy is hot, hot, hot—especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. If you’re heading to the coast or countryside, you’ll still want breezy layers, but comfort becomes even more important.

1. Linen Everything

Linen dresses, linen pants, linen shirts… if it’s light and breathable, it’s a winner. Yes, it wrinkles. Embrace it. 

I always take linen to Italy in the summer. I packed one fine, beautiful, yellow, long-sleeved linen top for my spring trip. It worked out well, but it felt a touch too early for all-over linen.

2. Flowy Dresses

Pack one or two midi or maxi dresses that you can wear to dinner or out sightseeing. Wrap styles or tiered skirts are both flattering and versatile, making them easy to dress up or down. 

I usually pack a variety of light, casual, flowy sundresses in the summer (long and short) when I go to Italy. 

3. Lightweight Tops with Interest

Look for cotton or viscose blouses with embroidery, ruffles, or smocking to elevate your basics. 

 

4. Comfortable Sandals (with Arch Support)

You’ll walk more than you expect. A pair of stylish sandals with support (think: not your basic flip-flops) will be your best friend. I also love espadrille wedges for evenings. You can find a wide selection of great, supportive, and comfortable walking sandals here.

Perfect for summer. I bought some walking sandals in May, but it felt too early to wear them. I also have a dressier block heel pair that I did wear under dark wash jeans to dinner a couple of times.

 

5. Stylish Sun Hat and Sunglasses

You’ll be thankful for these on long sightseeing days. Choose a wide-brimmed hat that’s easy to pack or roll up and sunglasses that complement your outfit. Great for summer.

6. Breathable Sleepwear and Loungewear

Air conditioning isn’t always reliable in European hotels or apartments, so bring cool, lightweight sleepwear and a cotton robe for the mornings. 

Church Attire when Visiting Italy

White Wrap

When visiting churches or religious sites, it’s customary to cover your shoulders and knees. Be sure to refrain from wearing tank tops, shorts, or dresses that are too short. Keep a lightweight scarf or wrap in your bag, or wear a midi dress with a short-sleeve tee layered underneath. They won’t let you in otherwise!

 

What to Wear to Italian Beach Towns and the Amalfi Coast

If your itinerary includes spots like Capri, Sorrento, or Cinque Terre, the vibe is effortlessly glamorous. You’ll want to pack:

• A breezy white dress or two (they pop beautifully against the colorful backdrops)
• A swimsuit you love, plus a stylish cover-up
• Flat leather sandals or espadrilles
• A straw tote or beach bag
• A sarong or wrap skirt for walking to and from the beach

You don’t need heels unless you’re going somewhere very dressy—but wedge sandals or block-heel slides are perfect for al fresco dinners.

Need more swimsuits and cover-up recommendations? Head over to Classy Swimsuits for Women Over 50 That Show You’ve Still Got It! and Chic Beach Coverups for Ladies Over 40

What Not to Wear in Italy (If You Want to Feel Local)

• Athletic wear outside the gym
• Logo-heavy clothes
• Oversized beach totes in cities
• Flip-flops (except at the beach)
• Heavy or distressed denim
• Baseball caps (unless you’re hiking)

That doesn’t mean you need to reinvent your style—just give it a little Italian polish.

Italy Packing List for Women Over 40 for Spring and Summer (By Category)

Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple breakdown to guide your packing and help you stay stylish without overstuffing your suitcase. Stick to light, breathable fabrics, a cohesive color palette, and pieces that can be mixed and matched. This list works for both spring and summer—just adjust the layers based on the weather. This is just a guideline—for example, tops in spring. Alternatively, one can be brief if you prefer, especially if you tend to get cold. If you don’t wear skirts, consider wearing a dress as an alternative.

Tops:

• 2–3 lightweight blouses or tunics
• 1–2 sleeveless tops or tanks for layering
• 1 button-up shirt (linen or cotton is perfect)
• 1–3 T-shirts or knit tops in neutral colors
• 1-2 sweatshirts

 

Bottoms:

• 1 pair of tailored pants or ankle trousers
• 1 pair of breathable linen or cotton pants
• 1 or 2 pairs of  mid-dark jeans (spring) or cropped pants (summer)
• Optional: a pair of shorts if you’ll be on the coast

Dresses & Skirts:

• 2 casual midi maxi or dresses. Or one can be short if you like.
• 1 dressier option for dinners or special outings
• 1 skirt (linen or cotton) for pairing with blouses

Outerwear:

• 1 lightweight trench or cropped jacket (spring)
• 1 cardigan, wrap, or pashmina
• Optional: a denim jacket for layering in cooler areas

Shoes:

• 1 pair of supportive walking shoes or sneakers
• 1 pair of stylish sandals with arch support
• 1 pair of wedge sandals or low heels for evenings

Accessories:

• Crossbody bag or small daypack
• Lightweight scarf (especially for churches)
• Sun hat or packable straw hat
• Sunglasses
• Minimal jewelry to elevate your outfits

Extras:

• Swimsuit and cover-up
• Sleepwear and lightweight loungewear
• Compact umbrella or rain jacket (spring)
• Power adapter for Italy (Type C or F)
• Wrinkle release spray or travel steamer

It’s easy to overpack for Italy, especially with so many photo-worthy moments on the horizon. But if you stick to versatile pieces and layer smartly, you’ll be surprised by how little you need—and how good you feel in every outfit.

Have you ever traveled to Italy before? Please let me know in the comments which items you would add to this packing list.