Ciao Bellas! It’s the time of the year when all my friends start to ask the same question:

“How to do I avoid looking like the typical American girl on vacation in Italy?”

If I had a penny for every time I get this, I could finally afford a Birkin! So let me spill the secret!

The password here is: Effortless Look.
There’s nothing that screams American like a wellprepped put-together outfit, planned in every detail. European women are generally more spontaneous in their everyday wearing, the like to look good but as it was a result of causality, even if took them a day to decide what to wear their look has to say “I’ve just thrown on the first thing, I’ve more important things to do than caring about how I look (yet I look fabulous!)” Not sure how to look effortless? I got you — Read “How To Look Effortlessly Chic”

Embrace Understated Luxury:

Italian style is all about timeless elegance. Avoid flashy trends and focus on classic silhouettes and high-quality materials. Remember, a well-made piece that flatters your figure and is crafted from beautiful fabric will make a far greater impact than a trendy item that screams "tourist."

The Power of the Dress:

A well-chosen dress is a staple in any Italian woman's wardrobe. Pack a few versatile dresses that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Think flowy maxi dresses for exploring ancient ruins, knee-length wrap dresses for a delicious aperitivo, or a simple linen shift dress with statement earrings for a romantic evening stroll.

Accessorize with Intention:

Accessories are the key to elevating your look. A pair of statement sunglasses, a chunky gold necklace, or a vibrant scarf can add a touch of personality to your outfit. But remember, Italians favor a minimalist approach. Choose one or two key pieces to avoid looking overdone.

Shoes for Sightseeing in Style:

Comfort is key when navigating charming Italian towns. Leave the stilettos at home and pack chic sandals with good support, or a pair of stylish flats. Sneakers are also an option, but instead of the trendy ones, try a dedicated timeless option that looks good both with sport outfits, flowy maxi dresses or mini skirts. Even better if they’re Italian, my favorite are the classic Superega, that you can see all over my feed during summer.

Shop with Confidence & Have Fun!:

Most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun! Italian fashion is about expressing your personality with confidence. So go forth, explore those charming boutiques, and create memories that will last a lifetime – all while looking absolutely fabulous, of course!

Happy shopping and travels, Ciao Bellas!

Summer Essentials For Your Next Vacation in Italy

by Sara Avans — Fashion Content Creator at @saraavans