What To Wear For Dinner In Italy (+ What Not to Put On)

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.

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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;

Dresses are your friend. Women can wear various dresses to dinner in Italy, depending on the occasion. For instance, you can show up in a maxi dress, sundress, wrap dress, and even a little black dress. If you’re going somewhere fancy — like a Michelin-starred restaurant — or are planning to go for cocktails, bring a cocktail dress.

Pants + blouse. If you’re not big on dresses, you’ve got other options. For instance, you can wear tailored Capri pants with a dressy blouse. Jumpsuits and rompers, which can be just as pretty and comfortable as dresses, are also an option. A pencil skirt with a loose blouse is also an acceptable dinner attire in Italy.

Wear the right shoes. When it comes to shoes, you’ve plenty of options. Sandals are acceptable, but ensure your nails are painted — Italian women are incredibly well-groomed. You can also wear heels, but you must be sure you won’t be walking on cobblestones at any point. In that case, you’re better off with flats or wedges.

Accessorize. In Italy, women often wear various accessories when dressing up for dinner. Complement your outfit with a fabulous pair of earrings or a necklace. Of course, carrying a leather purse or wearing high heels is also a great way to add style to your look.

Keep warm. Remember that Italians usually have dinner around 8:30 pm, so it might get a little frosty. Bring a light sweater for chilly evenings. In the winter, Italian women accessorize in scarves, wraps, hats, gloves, trench coats, and boots to stay warm outside.

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;

Well-tailored suits. In Italy, men always wear suits, regardless of the occasion. Suits are smart casual here; no one will think you’re overdressed for wearing a suit to dinner.

Jacket and pants. If suits are not your thing, a jacket, and pants, are also acceptable to wear for dinner in Italy for men. You can also accessorize with a tie for this outfit. A smart Oxford shirt and a pair of chinos or dark-colored jeans are another example of ideal dinner wear in Italy.

Wear closed shoes. Italian men prefer leather footwear, even if they are loafers or sneakers. Italians don’t usually wear socks, or at least visible ones. Socks are a no-no if you wear loafers with your dinner attire.

Dressing for the cold. Italian men wear coats, sweaters, and scarves in chilly weather to keep warm. In terms of fabrics, choose wool and cashmere for coats and sweaters. In addition to keeping you warm, wool and cashmere add a cozy and sophisticated touch to any look.

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