Shorts for Italy

Sheri

We are going to be traveling for the first time in a couple of years this summer. We are headed to Italy. Lots of walking, sightseeing.

My style is casual/dressy, not sloppy. I do have some Mother demin shorts that I love and wear all the time when it is warm, but I am thinking of something just a bit dressier.

I don't look good in longer shorts (I'm petite with shorter legs).

Any suggestions? Thanks.

2 years ago

Dressing

12 replies

Latest reply was from avebabe

rachylou

Veteran

I guess it depends a bit on if you’re going into churches - then your knees and shoulders need to be covered, but you could do this with a long thin topper. Tailored woven shorts would be versatile.

2 years ago

Sisi

Veteran

Linen pants? Good suggestions from Rachylou.

2 years ago

Bijou

Veteran

I like playsuits and jumpsuits as a more dressy alternative to shorts. These are the ones that I currently have in my wardrobe. I also have these tailored black pants and find that they can be dressed up with a nice blouse and heels and yet are cool and comfy to wear.

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2 years ago

RobinF

Veteran

I imagine it will be hot, love the idea of linen pants or crops. And shorts that aren't denim would have a different vibe than denim. A breezy dress could be fun too.

2 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Granted, it’s been a long time since I was there, but denim shorts might be a bit casual and warm for Italy, especially if you plan on entering the beautiful cathedrals and touring museums. I’d go for lightweight skirts or cropped pants that can be paired with simple tees or tanks, and a light layer like a jacket or cardigan to cover arms and shoulders when a bit of warmth or modesty is needed.

2 years ago

Helena

Veteran

Hi Sheri, a little bit aside, but I just wanted to say DH and I were in Florence in summer 2019 and I was worried about being too casual, but was actually surprised at how uber-casual everyone was ... lots of shorts, even athletic shorts with sneakers. I felt overdressed in my linen cropped wide pants and sandals, relative to most other tourists tbh (this was while trekking around the city - it was a little dressier for dinners). So just to say, probably what you have will be fine for 90% of it; a lightweight scarf in your bag can give you extra coverage in a pinch ... good luck finding a few pieces you like that are a touch dressier; hopefully the selection will open up a lot in the next couple of weeks. And enjoy planning the trip!

2 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

It is VERY hot in Italy in the Summer. I'm warning you! You also might have to cover up in the churches and cathedrals.

LOTS of casual Summer skirts and dresses in Italy. It's like a fashion show

You will also see shorts and Summer cropped pants, All good.

Try Boden, KUT, Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic, the Loft, and Gap for shorts.

2 years ago

Joy

Veteran

People in Italy dress up. Dresses, cropped pants. NO shorts or sleeveless tops for site seeing or even restaurants, especially in the evening.men need to be covered up for churches too.

2 years ago

Isabel

Veteran

If you find a pair of shorts you like and they are long , consider having them shortened. Voilá … bespoke. Have fun.

2 years ago

Sheri

Active Member

Thanks everyone!

2 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

Dresses and linen pants are always a good option. But if you want to stick to shorts, you can do dressier shorts. They usually have a design element like a belt, paperbag waist, front crease, etc. that elevate the look.
Some examples (ignore the footwear):
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/914862417199421/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44191640068700042/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/604960162437189958/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/44754590038588488/

2 years ago

avebabe

Active Member

I second Angie’s warning about the weather. Italy gets very hot, as in 95 -100 degrees and many places (including restaurants and museums) do not have air conditioning. Athleta carries a range of skorts and dresses that are highly breathable, cool, travel well, and wash/dry quickly (great when you’ve been really sweaty). And bring a wrap to cover up if you plan to visit churches. Have a great trip!

2 years ago

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