What to Pack for an Italian Holiday: 7 Outfit Ideas from a Simple Capsule
With summer officially underway, I found myself dreaming of an Italian escape… somewhere along the coast with sun-warmed stone streets, fresh lemons, and slow café mornings. Whether you’re headed there this summer or, like me, simply bringing a bit of la dolce vita into your wardrobe, this capsule was designed to inspire!
Just like the French Riviera edit, this Italian holiday capsule is all about ease, lightness, and versatility. Think soft linens, effortless silhouettes, and a warm coastal palette of ivory, lemon, blue, and straw!
Rather than rigid outfit planning, this guide offers 7 curated looks you can mix and match throughout your trip (or staycation). It’s simple, elevated, and easy to adapt no matter where you're heading this season!
Outfit Ideas
Look 1: Afternoon in Ravello
A floral dress in soft blues and cream makes for the perfect day dress. Easy, polished, and ideal for wandering through charming villages or stopping for an afternoon espresso with a view. Pair with woven sandals, a straw clutch, and gold accents for that elegant touch.
Look 2: Market Morning in Puglia
There’s nothing like a crisp white dress on a warm summer morning. This one is timeless and airy, made for open-air markets, a quiet garden walk, or breakfast under the vines. Add espadrilles, a silk scarf, and a structured basket bag to complete the look.
Look 3: Limoncello in Amalfi
Channel the golden tones of Amalfi with a scalloped skirt and white linen shirt. Feminine and easy to wear, this outfit moves effortlessly from sightseeing to terrace dining. Style with raffia wedges and round sunglasses for a soft but structured feel.
Look 4: White Linen in Taormina
A head-to-toe white moment. Classic, crisp, and forever chic. This relaxed pairing of a linen shirt and matching shorts works beautifully for warm days by the sea or strolling through ancient hilltop towns. Add a printed scarf to tie around your hair or bag for extra charm.
Look 5: Sorrento Sunlight
Coordinated without trying too hard, this lemon-hued matching set is perfect for golden hour. The clean lines and soft texture make it one of the most editorial pieces of the capsule. Pair with sandals, gold earrings, and a scarf to tie around your ponytail.
I recently purchased this Posse Rio top in a size Medium and really love it! The quality is beautiful, and it feels timeless yet easy to wear. You’ll be seeing it styled on me very soon! I’m especially excited to wear it this season with white linen pants, a flowy white maxi skirt, and light-wash cropped jeans for a more relaxed everyday take!
Look 6: Strolling Cinque Terre
A breezy striped button-down and light denim shorts are the perfect combo for exploring the colorful cliffside towns of Cinque Terre. Pair it with Veja sneakers, a straw tote, and pearl drop earrings for a fresh, laid-back look that’s equal parts classic and coastal.
Look 7: Evening Glow in Portofino
Every capsule needs that one dreamy evening look, and this soft blue slip dress is just that. It’s easy, romantic, and elegant for sunset dinners or nighttime strolls. Add kitten heels and a woven clutch for a simple but striking finish.
Packing Tips for an Italian Holiday
Think breathable elegance: Linen, cotton, and light fabrics are key for keeping cool while staying chic in the heat.
Stick to warm-weather neutrals: Whites, soft yellows, sandy beige, and dusty blues keep the palette cohesive and timeless.
Keep shoes practical but pretty: Espadrilles, flat strappy sandals, and sneakers will cover everything from cobblestones to coastal trails.
One scarf, many uses: Tie it in your hair, around your bag, or wear it as a neck scarf. It's a light layer that adds style without bulk.
Don’t overpack: These looks are designed to work together. With a few versatile accessories, you’ll have endless outfit options with fewer pieces! Plus you’ll want to make sure you leave some room for shopping!
Italian Coastal Towns to Visit
Positano: With its cascading pastel houses, lemon groves, and tiled terraces, this iconic Amalfi Coast gem is full of charm. Perfect for scenic strolls, seaside dining, and photo-worthy corners at every turn.
Ravello: Peaceful and romantic, Ravello offers sweeping cliffside views, lush gardens, and a quiet elegance that feels like a hidden retreat above the sea.
Capri: Chic and coastal with just the right touch of old-school glamour. Whether you’re lounging at a beach club or exploring its winding streets, don’t forget your scarf and oversized sunglasses.
Taormina: Set high above the Sicilian coast, this hilltop town is a mix of ancient ruins, dramatic sea views, and refined charm. It’s the perfect blend of history and holiday.
Sorrento: Terracotta rooftops, sunset strolls, and a golden, relaxed energy define this beautiful coastal hub. Ideal for lemon spritzes and slow afternoons.
Puglia (Ostuni, Polignano a Mare): With whitewashed buildings, rustic charm, and turquoise waters, these southern towns offer a more laid-back coastal experience, full of sun-drenched mornings and winding alleyways.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're planning a real escape or simply curating a bit of that Italian charm at home, I hope this capsule brings inspiration to your summer style. These seven looks were created with intention, to make getting dressed feel lighter, easier, and more beautiful!
From lemon-colored sets to breezy whites and soft blues, each piece is meant to evoke that coastal ease and timeless elegance we all crave this time of year. Perfect for packing, or simply for stepping into summer with a fresh perspective.
Looking for more summer style inspiration? You might also love:
Postcards from the Mediterranean: 3 Effortless Summer Outfits
What to Pack for the French Riviera: 7 Outfit Ideas from a Simple Capsule
With Amour,
M.