One of my most requested blog posts after traveling is what to pack! After three visits in years past during September, I think I finally have it nailed down what is the perfect Italy packing list. I believe the key to packing efficiently is having pieces you can mix and match throughout your visit. I love to choose a color palette so all pieces compliment each other. Choosing a similar color palette for your clothes also helps with packing accessories so that you can stick to only a few pairs of shoes and a bag or two.
Some of my must haves? Matching sets you can wear multiple ways during your stay, layering items to keep you warm when needed and of course, comfortable shoes (this pair is my favorite to wear with everything from jeans to dresses) for exploring. Today, I’m breaking down my recent vacation looks as well as the essentials I would recommend for your next trip to Italy!
MY ITALY PACKING LIST
1. Reformation Selia Linen Dress
I love a dress that can be dressed up or dressed down for vacation. This open back number was great for daytime with sandals or dressed up at dinner with heels, making it a favorite find for the trip.
2. UO Charlotte Linen Printed Shift Dress
I always love an on theme moment and I couldn’t resist this Italian picnic printed shift dress for under $70! I packed these pants for my trip to Lake Como and still a favorite as well!
3. La Ligne Vivian Dress
One of my best splurges of the year was this La Ligne dress. A classic with a twist, it’s so flattering and comfortable and I love the pop of cherry red for vacation (especially in Italy!).
4. Hill House Thea Dress
My addiction to Hill House is real so of course I packed a dress or two from them in my suitcase! This one shoulder style is so chic with it’s shell print and best of all, packs so well even when rolled up in my carry on!
5. J. Crew Pearl Hoop Earrings
The easiest way to add some style to an outfit on vacation is a fun earring and these pearl hoops have been my go-to for years!
6. R+Co. DART Pomade Stick
My absolute must have on vacation? This pomade stick to help perfect the slicked back bun! With minimal hair tools, I did a slicked back bun almost everyday and this is my favorite product for it!
7. Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses
You can’t beat these chic and under $70 sunglasses! I own in three colors and always receive so many compliments on them.
9. Solid & Striped The Toni One Piece
I’ve been on an one piece suit kick lately and love this striped number that looks like a two piece from the back. So fun!
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN ITALY?
My favorite time of year to visit Italy is in September thanks to less crowds, perfect weather and of course, the ideal way to wrap up summer! Whether you choose being on the water like Positano, Capri or Lake Como or go more towards the city like Milan, Florence or Rome, you can expect pleasant While I haven’t visited during other times of the year yet, I do know from friends that it can be extremely hot in the summer, while fall/winter can vary from crisp and cool to snowy dependent on where you are.
WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN THE SPRING
For springtime, you may experience more rainy weather so packing layering pieces is key! Think a classic trench coat, a floral sundress you can dress up or dress down and a comfortable pair of feminine ballet flats.
WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN THE SUMMER
Summer can be very hot so keep your clothing light and breathable! A lot of places in Europe, and especially Italy, don’t have air conditioning so you’ll want to stay cool as possible. Think linen sundresses, a slip dress and of course, a cute suit!
WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN THE FALL
Fall in Italy feels like the perfect time to break out all the classic staples like wide leg denim, a cable knit sweater (so obsessed with this cardigan!) and leather mules for comfortable walking.
WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN THE WINTER
What could be more dreamy than a cozy winter in Italy?! I would make sure to pack leather pants, a cashmere sweater and leather ankle boots to keep your feet warm and comfortable while walking around looking for pasta!
Shop more from my Italy packing list!
