13+ Must-Have Items to Master the Italian Summer Aesthetic
Can you picture it?
You’re strolling through the sun-drenched streets of Florence, where every step echoes with the whispers of history, and every corner reveals a new masterpiece in art, architecture, and style. Freshly brewed espresso in the morning, glasses of Chianti in the evening, and plates filled with hand-made pasta that seems to be filled with generations of flavor.
Or maybe you’re on the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi coast with azure waters and lemon grove scents filling the air.
But, more likely… You’re sitting at home and dreaming of this Italian summer aesthetic. The bad news is, I can’t get you to Italy. But the good news is I can show you how to bring the sparkling and enchanting vibe by building chic Italian summer outfits.
So What are the Vibes in an Italian Summer Outfit?
The summer Italian aesthetic exudes an effortless blend of sophistication, romance, and laid-back luxury, capturing the essence of la dolce vita. It’s a celebration of timeless elegance infused with a carefree spirit, where classic silhouettes and natural textures effortlessly mingle with vibrant colors and playful patterns.
Whether you opt for retro influences or a more modern take, these are the pieces that you will need to feel like you’re living your best “Under the Tuscan Sun” romance fantasy.
It’s enchanting, it’s captivating—it’s the epitome of timeless allure. And the best part is, there are so many ways to make it work for your own personal style.
When we explore a new trend or style aesthetic, it’s not about abandoning your authentic style pov, but rather exploring what elements on this list feel like a natural extension of your current style. What can you add to your style to infuse some of this sun-kissed glamour without losing your daily style intention?
So trends + personal style = a great way to keep your style fresh and current, without sacrificing all the work you’ve done building out your style toolbox and preferences.
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13+ Must-Have Items for the Perfect Italian Summer Outfit
1. Fruit Prints
Nothing screams summer more than a colorful fruit print! Imagine a flowy dress with a simple tutti-frutti pattern perfect for lunch dates or brunch with the gals.
Take a page out of Vogue’s 2022 collection. Check out Gigi Hadid’s stunning appearance in this wonderful strawberry-patterned, square-neckline dress, and tell me you wouldn’t look gorgeous in it, too!
Colorful and bold prints can be a perfect way to capture the enchanting essence of this trend. Lemons, cherries, strawberries, and grapefruits are just a place to start.
This is a perfect lemon print dress to try!
Here are some more print ideas as well:
If you’re unsure if these colors suit you, try determining your seasonal color analysis to help you narrow down your best colors.
2. Floral Prints
Don’t sleep on the floral prints either!
You could try bold and vibrant blooms, tropical-style florals, delicate romantic roses, or vintage-inspired flower prints.
In terms of scale, that is best determined by your yin/yang balance. You can use a system like Kibbe’s Image Identities, or your Kitchener essences to guide you.
But if you have the romantic essence you might find bolder, larger-scale prints work best. But if you have ingenue essence, you might prefer smaller-scale or tighter floral prints.
3. Vintage Scarves
A vintage scarf is a versatile accessory that can add a touch of retro elegance to your Italian summer aesthetic.
Whether you plan to tie it around your hair hankerchief style, for a dreamy retro feel or rock an Audrey Hepburn Roman Holiday neck scarf, this is an easy accessory to play with.
In terms of fabrics, bold and colorful silks are fantastic. But depending on your style goals, you could play around with simple linen hair scarves for a more rustic Tuscany feel.
Most prints will work, just make sure the print adds something to your outfit. We don’t want it to feel like we are trying too hard. Italian style is impactful, but it also feels very effortless.
Floral prints, retro prints, fruit prints, gingham, and polka dots could all be charming options.
4. Hats are your friend
If you want to truly master that Italian summer look, don’t skip finishing off your outfit with a nice hat. The Italian vibe is not afraid of making a statement! Not to mention a sunburned face does not scream Italian glamour…
The most common of all hats in Italy is the brimmed Panama hat, probably because you can pair it with many summer outfits. But any straw hat or floppy hat could look fabulous as well.
The Coppola is another popular choice in Italy. Inspired by the fashion of Sicily and Calabria, it’s the perfect accessory for a more playful look.
5. Red Lips All the Way
A red lip is the cherry on your sundae. It’s that perfect finishing touch.
It adds a touch of classic glamour and sophistication, effortlessly elevating your ensemble. Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets, sipping espresso at a sidewalk cafe, or enjoying a sunset aperitif by the sea, a vibrant red lip gives you that Italian summer essence.
The summer Italian aesthetic has a romantic undertone. The chance of falling into the arms of your Italian amor becomes a possibility around any corner. And the red lip will certainly help you be ready for it!
6. Big Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a summer staple, and Italians love their BIG and round sunglasses shapes.
Reminiscent of the iconic style of Italian stars like Sophia Loren, whose oversized shades exuded a blend of mystery and allure, these sunglasses add a touch of drama to any ensemble.
You might be seeing a theme- the Italians like style elements with a BIG impact.
7. Statement Jewelry
Statement jewelry is the ultimate expression of individuality and style, infusing your outfit with your unique finishing touches. You can give any simple linen dress an Italian summer vibe when you add in some statement jewelry and a red lip.
Some potential ideas for statement jewelry could include chunky cuffs or bracelets, large hoop earrings, statement rings, or retro earrings. Don’t be afraid to repeat some of the themes you already have in your outfits, like adding floral earrings when wearing a floral dress. Italian summer style can, at times, be a bit over the top.
If you have trouble balancing the scale of your jewelry, consider deteriming your face shape and learning how to find harmony between your facial features, earrings, hairstyles, and necklaces.
8. Off-the-Shoulder Dresses or Tops
An off-the-shoulder dress is a quintessential piece for capturing the effortless elegance of Italian summer style. Here’s how you can style it to achieve a chic and sophisticated look:
Opt for a flowy silhouette made of a lightweight linen or comfort. This is perfect for the summer heat but still exudes that beautiful Italian femininity. I would recommend a midi or maxi length, but this will be dependent ultimately on your style pillars.
Then a straw hat, rattan bag {this is the one I own!}, and you will be the epitome of the Italian dream. Now get ready to star opposite your Italian dreamboat. That gondala ride into the sunset is waiting for you 😉
9. Shoes To Wear
When it comes to shoes for any Italian summer outfit, you need it to match the overall vibe of your outfit, while still allowing you to walk those cobblestone streets. ( I mean we want it to be believable right!)
Opt for classic espadrilles with wedge heels or flat soles for a timeless and chic look. Espadrilles add a touch of charm to any outfit and are perfect for daytime strolls and evening dinners.
You could also try flat strappy sandals or ballet flats as well.
10. Sundresses { you can never have too many!}
With its figure-skimming silhouette and simple style lines, the sundress showcases your sun-kissed shoulders and exudes a sense of feminine allure. Pair it with woven sandals and a straw tote for a touch of rustic charm, and adorn yourself with oversized sunglasses and statement jewelry to elevate the look.
Bold colors are a fantastic choice here, and if you need help deciding your best colors, check out my guide on seasonal color analysis.
11. Two-Piece Set
In Italy, where bold glamour reigns supreme, a well-chosen two-piece set effortlessly achieves a put-together yet bold look.
You’ll always be ready to tan by the beach, pop into an interesting shop, or sip wine with your new Italian beau in a two-piece set.
You could try a matching linen set either with a skirt or shorts. Or you could try a crop top with a maxi skirt.
Playful prints are great, as are retro silhouettes. However, I’d recommend not going to small-scale with your details, as you might lose some of this aesthetics’ natural flavor.
12. Makeup
Your makeup should be fresh, but bold. If a red lip feels too bold for your daily style needs, you could opt for a more luminous, sun-kissed look. Colored lip glosses can be a great choice in place of a red lip.
Add a touch of shimmer with champagne or gold eyeshadow to capture the sun-kissed glow of Mediterranean summers. Define your eyes with a thin line of brown or black eyeliner, winging it out slightly for a subtle cat-eye effect. And a touch of mascara and you will be set.
13. Rattan or Straw Bags
Straw bags and rattan totes are quintessential accessories for capturing the essence of Italian summer style, offering practicality and charm in equal measure. These timeless pieces evoke the rustic elegance of coastal living and effortlessly complement a variety of summer ensembles.
If that’s not your style you could also try a canvas tote bag. Bonus points for using an Italian summer vibe print!
14. Retro Touches + Style Icons
Some of the most iconic Italian styles come from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Don’t be afraid to look back to those decades for inspiration.
Sophia Loren (1950s): Sophia Loren, the epitome of Italian glamour, often wore classic 1950s styles with elegance and grace. She could be seen in full-skirted dresses cinched at the waist, adorned with floral prints or polka dots, accessorized with statement jewelry and her signature cat-eye makeup. She was certainly Diva Chic!
Monica Vitti (1960’s): Monica Vitti is another iconic Italian actress who made a significant impact during the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for her impeccable taste and sophisticated style, Vitti often embraced relaxed yet refined ensembles that captured the spirit of la dolce vita.
Or even Gina Lollabrigida, talk about a major style icon! She’s a great icon for someone who likes this style but wants shorter hairdo. I believe she’s a verified Kibbe Romantic and she looks fantastic with this haircut!
When a new season rolls around sometimes we are just craving a little of fantasy style. And the Italian summer aesthetic is sure to have you living la dolce vita.
Now go enjoy a limoncello in your fabulous Italian summer fit.