Italians take great pride in their appearance and always try to look dapper for every occasion, including dinner.
So before you head out for dinner at the local trattoria, dress the part. We’ve got you covered if you’re uncertain about what to wear for dinner in Italy.
When in Rome…
In Italy, dinner is more than just a meal.
It’s a social event with good people and great food, a celebration of sorts. And just like any other social event, you must dress accordingly when going for dinner in Italy.
They say, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.‘ Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done when mimicking Italian style — especially as an American.
In the next sections, we’ll discuss everything you need to know when dressing up for dinner in Italy.
What You Need To Know
Before we get any further, there are some quick tips to help you prepare for your dining experience in Italy.
Dress Appropriately For the Season
One of the most important things to remember when packing for a trip to Italy is the weather.
The country has four seasons, and temperatures tend to vary significantly between the seasons. So, before you head out, pick an appropriate outfit.
Read Next – What to Wear In Italy In September?
Don’t Worry About Overdressing
One thing you don’t have to worry about when going out for dinner in Italy is being overdressed.
No one will make fun of you for trying to look good here. Italians consider dressing up for dinner to be a sign of respect.
Location Influences Clothing Choices
How you dress for dinner in Italy varies depending on where you are in the country.
For instance, in the South, where people tend to be more conservative, revealing clothing is generally frowned upon. In Milan, the fashion capital, anything goes.
Other factors may affect decisions on what to wear — besides traditions and attitudes toward fashion.
In some parts of Italy, for instance, the weather influences what people wear to dinner and other important occasions.
What Women Should Wear To Dinner In Italy
As you’d expect, Italian women are very stylish and take care to choose the perfect outfit for every occasion.
The Italian beauty motto ‘la Bella figura,’ meaning to dress well to make a good impression, further highlights the importance of making an effort to look smart when going out for a meal.
Women should always dress up for dinner in Italy, even as tourists. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy; dress a little nicer than you would in the United States, even if you’re going to a ristorante for a casual dinner. You’ll get funny looks if you show up in sweats and flip-flops.
If you’re struggling to find the right outfit for dinner in Italy, here are a few tips to help you dress accordingly;
Read Later – What To Wear To A Wedding In Italy
What Men Should Wear To Dinner In Italy
Like the women, Italian men tend to be fashion-conscious and put much effort into their appearance.
Formal, tailored outfits are the go-to dinner attire for guys in Italy.
Here are some ideas to help you if you’re looking for the perfect evening meal outfit;
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What NOT To Wear For Dinner in Italy
It may be hard to understand as an American, but there are a few things that you can’t wear for dinner in Italy.
Below are some cloth choices to avoid when going for an evening meal in Italy:
Read Next – What To Wear For A Night Out In Italy
Conclusion
Food and fashion represent the biggest expressions of Italian culture, and Italians pay attention to both.
Therefore, you have to dress appropriately when going for an evening meal.
Feel free to use the ideas in this article for inspiration when deciding what to wear for dinner in Italy.
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