How To Build an Italian-Inspired Summer Capsule Wardrobe
Italy. Home to many of the world's greatest works of art, architecture, fashion houses and gastronomy, Italy elates, inspires and moves like no other. This small boot shaped peninsula is a fashion hub. With fashion roots dating back to the 11th century, Italians are masters of the capsule wardrobe. Light, neutral colors that pair easily and dress both up and down for a fluid transition from coffee shop to club. See below for the style pieces I wear to fit in when I am exploring this beautiful country.
- The flowy cotton dress
I find myself reaching for this dress over and over again. I have all the colors, and I pair it with layers of gold necklaces and bracelets. It’s comfortable, versatile, and looks more expensive than it really is. It comes in 7 colors, which are all soft neutral tones to blend with the locals. Many reviewers say the dress is extremely comfortable, with one happy shopper adding that it’s “literally the most flattering and comfortable dress I have ever owned … I feel like every day is a vacation when I wear it.
- The Panama hat
I don’t think I need to remind you the benefits of a good hat. Not only will you look classy and well put together, but it will keep the sun off your face. SPF is as important as your outfit as premature aging isn’t cute. The chain strap is both for style and purpose. Quite a few gusts of wind have tried to steal this hat from me to no avail. Pretty much every person you pass on the street in Italy— from Milan to Naples to Capri — is wearing this style of hat.
- Casual Wide leg pants
Linen pants may read as “coastal grandma” in the U.S., but absolutely everyone wears them in Italy. Comfortable, smart and effortless. I like to pair them with a simple white tank for casual days, and then with heels and a pretty top for dinner. This set has the best of both worlds. Not only do they offer a gorgeous wide leg pant, but it has a matching twist front crop halter top. ADD TO CART!
- Oversized button down blouse
I would consider this blouse a staple for all wardrobe capsules. I have had mine for years and it just keeps getting more comfortable! It’s always on the flight over with me and can be worn many ways. I wear it with leggings and sneakers on the plane. Once out and about, I layer it on top of the aforementioned dress or with a tank and some pants or tuck it into trousers for a more sophisticated look. It comes in either white or black, and while I have it in white, both are popular colors to wear with linen pants on islands like Capri and Sicily, and everywhere else.
- The layered pendant necklace
Balance out all the neutral, minimalist essentials by layering lots of gold necklaces and bracelets, and don’t be afraid to opt for some chunky pendants. One shopper, who liked the necklace so much that she bought it again after losing the first one, says they are “an instant favorite because it looks good with everything.”
- Woven Raffia Satin Lined Handbag
I’ve sampled many a tote in my day, but nothing can compete with the combination of style and function in this woven raffia satin lined handbag. It just as easily holds my phone, wallet, Kindle, and headphones as it does a towel, sunglasses, and snacks for the beach. It’s never lost its like-new appearance since I got it a year ago. The texture and color add the perfect pop with my Italian wardrobe, and I love the satin lining.
- Shoes you can walk in
You can spend a lot on a pair of leather Italian shoes, or you can get a pair of leather flats stateside for a fraction of the cost. These shoes are perfect for those days when you want to look classy but don’t want to wear heels. These shoes have a flexible sole and breathable lining, so I never shy away from walking everywhere with them on. Like sneakers, only cuter.