Italian Wedding Dress Code
What to wear to an Italian Destination Wedding?
It’s always difficult to decide on what to wear to weddings, but even harder when trying to decide on what to wear to a wedding in Italy in the middle of summer.
It is well know that Italians are renowned for their sense of style and impeccable dress sense so it’s therefore vital for us stranieri to make a good impression and feel as fashionable (but comfortable) as possible. So, what should you wear as a guest to a destination wedding in Italy?
As a wedding planner, specialising in weddings in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast for over seven years, I share with you five top tips when considering your Italian wedding attire.
ONE : Avoid black and white
Black is associated here in Italy (as in many other countries) with mourning, plus if you are attending a wedding at midday and you turn up in a black cocktail dress you are going to be, firstly hot and secondly feeling very out of place.
White is strictly reserved for the bride of course. Our beautiful Sorrento and Amalfi Coast brides are not going be overly impressed if, as a guest, you dress in white, no matter how high the temperature is. The only exception is if the bride and groom have specifically asked all of their guests to wear white, of course.
TWO : Choose lightweight elegant clothing
If you are attending a summer wedding, especially in the afternoon in Sorrento or across the Amalfi Coast, it is going to be hot! The last thing you’ll want is to feel hot and uncomfortable and wanting to run back to the hotel for a shower and change before the wedding has even started! Opt for lighter fabric and nothing too dark which will absorb the heat. Also nothing too tight! Italians, in my opinion, have a more formal/classic style so your shortest, tightest dress is not going to be well received. Italians tend to opt for longer dresses for formal occasions as they are considered more elegant.
For gents, opt for a smart linen suit. Italian tradition dictates the men should always wear a suit, however this can of course depend on the dress code of the bride and groom and how formal they want their special event to be. If you do opt for linen, don’t forget to pack a hand held steamer to ensure you are crease free.
Ensure you have paid close attention to the dress code on your formal invitation, if the dress code states ‘black tie’ then you will need to dress accordingly following the couple’s formal attire request.
THREE : Accessorise
Choose beautiful accessories to accompany your outfit, to make you feel more glamorous and dig out that designer handbag to complete your outfit. Italy is the home of Armani, Gucci, Fendi and Prada let’s not forget! A designer pair of sunglasses will always make you feel special and are a must in the south of Italy for sure (just remember to take them off for any professional photographs).
FOUR : Wear appropriate footwear
We’re not recommending that you turn up in un-fashionable shoes … but beware that places such as Ravello have a lot of cobbled streets and steps and tottering down these roads in your stiletto heels is not going to make you look as elegant as you may wish! Plus if the ceremony is taking place in a garden setting, you’ll be sinking into the ground. Consider a fashionable pair of wedges or sandals, or a lower heel that is going to be comfortable throughout the day. Alternatively throw a pair of sandals into your bag and switch things up for dancing later in the evening!
FIVE : DRESS TO EMBRACE YOUR OWN STYLE AND RELAX
Whatever you decide to wear, make sure you feel relaxed and comfortable and embrace your own style. If you look great, you will undoubtedly feel great, so pay close attention to what feels right for you.
And remember you’re in one of the most beautiful places in the world… enjoy every minute!