What To Wear For A Night Out In Italy (Tips for Men & Women)

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Italy is not all monuments, museums, and great food; the country also boasts fabulous nightlife.

However, you must dress accordingly before exploring the Italian night scene.

We’ve got some ideas if you’re looking for what to wear for a night out in Italy. 

Do I Have To Dress Up For A Night Out In Italy? 

In most parts of the world, people only dress up for special events like weddings, birthdays, family reunions, etc.

But not in Italy. Italians always dress to impress, no matter the occasion. 

Do I Have To Dress Up For A Night Out In Italy? 
Italians never fail to impress with their fashion choices

In Italy, people wear high fashion items that make a mark just to go to the post office or grocery shopping.

It’s part of the Italian culture. Being well-dressed and making a good impression is a sign of respect. 

Of course, not all occasions call for a super formal look; sometimes, smart casual is perfectly acceptable.

All in all, you must put some effort into your appearance if you intend to go out for a fun night in one of Italy’s bustling cities.

What Do You Wear To A Nightclub In Italy?

As an American, the dilemma of what to wear for a night out in Italy may seem trivial, but it’s not.

Dress codes are a big deal for Italians, even for seemingly casual events such as clubbing. Some clubs even have dress codes. 

Therefore, your choice of attire for a night out in Italy will largely depend on where you’re going and what you will do there.

Below, we’ve put together some pointers to help you ensure you’re appropriately dressed when going out. 

Italian Night Out Outfit Ideas For Men

When it comes to dressing up for a night out in Italy, the rules for men are pretty simple.

A clean/dressy casual look will suffice for most bars and restaurants. But if you’re planning a high-end outing, the dress code will likely be stricter. 

Italian Night Out Outfit Ideas For Men
Night out in Italy

If you find yourself second-guessing your choice of outfit for your first night out in Italy, here are a few tips to help you! 

  • Formal. When worn correctly, a suit can be the perfect clubbing outfit in Italy for men. For instance, wearing a classic suit with a beautiful sweater-style t-shirt rather than a regular shirt won’t look out of place in the Italian night scene. 
  • Semi-formal (dressy casual). If a suit feels too formal, you can wear a dressed-up version of casual attire. A pair of chinos with a shirt and a blazer on top will do the trick. Dark denim with no holes or tears will also do well for your night-out outfit.
  • Casual (T-shirt, jeans, and jacket combo). You’d be surprised at just how relaxed the Italian night scene can be, you know, compared to other social events where people tend to go for a more formal look. Sometimes a plain t-shirt, dark or black-wash wash jeans, and a jacket combo will do the trick. 
  • Shoes. The shoe type you wear will depend on your clothes. A more formal look calls for a pair of dress shoes to go with it. You can wear loafers with a smart casual outfit. A pair of clean sneakers is also acceptable if you’re aiming for a more relaxed look.
  • Accessories. Don’t forget to accessorize; Italian men love their accessories. Some of the best additions to transform an evening look include a metal watch, a lovely necklace, cufflinks, and a scarf in case it gets chilly. 

Italian Night Out Outfit Ideas For Women

For women, the dress code for a night out in Italy is not as strict — compared to more formal occasions — but you should still pay attention to detail and dress to the event wherever you go night clubbing.

Italian Night Out Outfit Ideas For Women
Italy’s dress code for a night out is relatively relaxed

Here are a few pointers. 

  • LBD. When it comes to night-out outfits for women, you can never go wrong with a little black dress, even in Italy. A nice, comfortable little black dress with fabulous heels or high boots and perhaps a blazer will work in most cases. 
  • Dress or slacks. If you don’t have a little black dress, any color dress (with tights) or slacks with heels or boots will do the trick. This semi-formal attire is best for those unsure about the dress code. 
  • Pants + stylish blouse (smart casual). If you don’t feel like wearing a dress for your night out in Italy, a smart pair of pants and a nice top are also perfectly acceptable. A modern jumpsuit with a jacket or blazer can achieve the elegant causal look most clubs want.
  • Comfortable shoes. The streets in most Italian cities are unforgiving if you’re not wearing the right shoes. Cobblestones are common, and the roads are understandably falling apart in some parts — these are ancient cities. When wearing heels is not an option, sneakers or fashionable sandals are acceptable. 
  • Accessorize. Beautiful accessories are always a safe bet. Italian women accessorize their attire with simple items that bring out their style. Well-chosen accessories, such as a designer purse, a pair of heels, or matching earrings, can help you create a beautiful, sophisticated look without looking like you’re trying too hard. 

What NOT To Wear For a Night Out In Italy

Regarding dress codes, most clubs want their patrons dressed casually with a chic twist. In other words, they want smart casual.

Some clothing items are a no-go for the Italian night scene, including the following:

  • Ripped Denim jeans
  • Baggy clothes
  • Sports jerseys, hats, and beanies  
  • Shorts (probably too cold for shorts, anyways)
  • Joggers and sports shoes
  • Loud prints 
  • Beachwear 

In addition to clothes, there may be some restrictions regarding accessories. Some locations don’t allow big purses or overly large jackets.

If there’s any confusion with the dress code, you can call the venue beforehand for clarification. 

Always Dress For the Weather

It can get chilly at night, especially during spring, autumn, and winter.

Summer nights can also get quite cool, so you need to be prepared. You’ll require a warm outer layer with your outfit for your night out in Italy, such as a coat or jacket. 

Consider bringing a scarf to keep the chilly breeze out.

Remember that clubs, restaurants, and other facilities in most Italian cities are equipped with air conditioning, so you may need to remove your coat once inside. 

Conclusion

Italians always dress polished and chic, whatever the occasion. They also have numerous unspoken dress codes, particularly around evening wear.

Knowing exactly what to wear for a night out in Italy can help ensure you don’t look out of place, no matter where you decide to explore after dark.  

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