2010

Our numerous trips to France & England have always been in July -- and I have become quite adept at packing for the heat! Now, we are planning a trip to northern Italy from mid-September to early October. I (female) am in a bit of a quandry as to the type of clothing & footwear I will need to take given the transition between summer & fall. What kind of pieces do you pack when travelling at this time of the year?

Many thanks!
2010

anna_roz

We traveled twice to Italy around late September/October, although not to Northern Italy. Nontheless, we brought along, and used at times, lightweight jackets and sweaters. Nothing too bulky but definitely layers of clothing. We do not normally wear sandals during travel, so lace-up, unattractive, but very comfortable, Mephisto shoes for me and quality walking shoes for husband.

You may want to bring a few short sleeve tops. We did encounter several warm days in Rome and Southern Tuscany, but this may be a non-issue since you are visiting further North.

Anna

pantelia

When we went to Italy last year, in October, we were lucky to have packed and dressed in layers.

Some days it was quite warm, short sleeves were fine, some days we needed a short sleeved shirt, and a long sleeved shirt and a fleece or jacket.

suze

layers

schnauzer

Layers and a light jacket. You could still need some good walking sandles as it can be still pretty hot in mid September. Take also a pair of lace up/or similar heavier walking shoes that can be used also to go out in the evenings and for when it starts to get cooler. Mephisto or Munro work for me.

Take some long cotton pants as well as some 3/4 or shorter style pants or skirts for the first couple of weeks. Take T shirts/short sleeve tops which you can wear under the light jacket if it starts to cool down. Something like a mod style, short length denim jacket can be good if you like that look. it looks good with navy pants, white/cream etc and even brown or black at a pinch. Also doesn't look out of place over 3/4 length pants or skirts whereas some other jacket styles look odd. I have only recently bought a denim jacket at 50! Don't know how I went without one for so long. It has to be the right style though, nothing long and droopy, cut in at the waist is very flattering.
Schnauzer

2010

Got it! Be prepared for some possible warm days & also cooler days/evenings ... light-weight garments including a jacket ... layers ... comfortable footwear. Thanks!

I'm also thinking about silk knits & pashminas.

2010

anna_roz

Yes to Pashminas and in many colors! LOL I would not bother bringing any along, since what a wonderful shopping opportunity while in Italy!

Anna

LoveItaly

Well I always bring a rainproof black trenchcoat that can be worn with either pants or skirts 2010 as at that time of the year it can often rain, there can even be electrical storms in Northern Italy.
I too agree, bring clothes that you can layer. I can wear my trenchcoat over a blazer. I like a cashmere sweater set. Cashmere is light and easy to pack and yet if it is cold it sure keeps one warm. And a sweater set is so versatile.
I wouldn't bother with sandles. I like to wear loafers on the plane, all the ones I have are quite comfortable for walking also. Since I spend time with various friends and they tend to dress up for restaurants I pack a couple of silk dresses and a pair of pumps or a dress and skirtsuit (making sure the jacket can be worn with pants). I use black as my basic color. Have fun planning your trip!