There's no strict dress code to follow when you go to
Venice. As long as you're covered up in all the vital parts, you can dress in anything you want. With that said, wouldn't you want to dress to impress in such a beautiful city? Who knows what might happen when you're there? You might get snapped by a street-style photographer, for instance, or get featured in a fashion-centric Instagram account. And of course, you might also meet the love of your life in Venice! So shouldn't you dress properly? That's why you ought to pack a sophisticated outfit, a breezy look, and more for Venice.
Forget The Swimwear
First things first, forget the swimwear. If you're on a tour of Italy and you plan to go to the
best beaches in Sicily, Puglia, and the like, know that you won't anything of the sort in this city. Unless you plan to swim in the canals (which is illegal and unsanitary, by the way!), leave the swimsuits in your
luxury home in Venice. The city isn't known for swimming after all. You'll be spending most of your time walking its cobbled streets, exploring its narrow alleyways, and the like. Casual clothes are enough for Venice.
Keep A White Shirt and Pants Handy
Speaking of casual clothes, make sure to keep a white shirt and a nice pair of pants handy. This is for two reasons. First, these two garments are style staples that will instantly elevate a look no matter how simple or casual it is. A white shirt evoked a business casual-like refinement while a well-tailored pair of slacks never fails to make one look more sophisticated. In relation to that, the second reason touches on dress codes. If you want to go inside the iconic St Mark's Basilica, for example, you need to cover up your legs and shoulders.
Pack a Cocktail Dress or Two
Venice is the kind of city where you'll want to go out at night. Sometimes, it might even require you to dress up to the nines. Perhaps you're going to a classy bar. Or to a ball in a fancy hotel. In such situations, a nice cocktail dress will do. Perhaps even a simple floor-length gown too. And if you think that packing one or two is too much for your luggage, you can always shop for one in the city. There are many great stores and even
vintage shops in Venice. They'll dress you appropriately for any occasion!
Don't Shy Away from Bright Prints and Colors
Explore the many
neighborhoods in Venice and you'll realize that the city is rendered in neutrals. Though there are few colors (see Burano) and gilding here and there, the metropolis glows in sandy walls, stonewashed churches, and terracotta roofs. And in such scenery, you'll stand out even more if you dare to sport bold colors and prints. You'd still do well to look tasteful, however, but don't shy away from eye-popping vibrancy.
Italian designers are known for such attention-grabbing style sensibilities, after all, so you won't exactly stick out like a sore thumb here.
Rely on Flats During The Day
For a city that will have you walking for hours, you need a comfy pair of flats to see it through. Think ballet flats for girly looks, summer sandals for a fresh outfit, and the like. Not only will they be more practical, but you'll still look chic as well. You won't just look good but feel good too. And don't worry! There are many beautiful flats out there that'll still make you look as sexy and sophisticated as you would in heels. Just look for the right pair for your personal style and you're good to go!
Wear Comfy Heels in The Evening
In the evenings, however, comfy heels ought to be the footwear of choice. If there's one thing that Italians know, it's footwear. And no matter how fashion evolves over the years, the Venetians tend to be more traditional when it comes to sartorial choices. Of course, this means that they expect women to go out at night in Venice in heels. Don't worry! You don't have to go for those restricting stilettos. There's a good number of pumps, wedges, and more that'll keep your feet comfy despite the elevation. the right pair will let you walk just fine even on Venice's cobbled streets.
Pile On The Jewelry
As far as
Italian jewelry is concerned, you can pile it on as much as you want. But it bears to be tasteful about it too! When you explore the city during the day, for example, sleek gold pieces are more suitable. Perhaps even a sparkle of silver or a shine of pearl too. Come nightfall, you can go more extravagant with your accessories. Show off the diamonds, rubies, and sapphires if you want. Or layer on as many pearls as you can if you prefer. Either way, just remember to accessories just right.
Do you know what you'll wear when you go to Venice? Though you can technically wear anything you want, follow these style tips to truly dress to impress in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
