I emailed our travel agent over the weekend with the same question and here's his response:

"Skirts are exceptable, even if just above the knee. We where there last month and my wife wore a skirt. Just no shorts for women or bare shoulders."

However...to be safe, I'll probably take the Fodorite's advice.

I think you should pack the skirt, it sounds like a good versatile travel outfit with black tights. Just wear something else on the Vatican day is all.

I'm not sure why you think it's a "lecture" for people to answer your question with their various perspectives.

suze...I just got my "panties in a wad" when I read SOME of the replies. Most replies were answered in a tone like I would have answered...but I found a few to be curt.

Jewelhawg

No one wants you to get yanked out of line and not get to visit The Vatican. We have all seen how the guards can be and how the rules change slightly one way or another.

It is much wiser to just cover the shoulders, cover the knees, and put something on your head!!

Ciao!!

'put something on your head'

No headcovering required.

ok so what is the decision? Can you wear capris if they cover your knees and yes the replies have been rude. I want to follow
what is right too for Rome where I live people wears shorts in
the summer to church. but when in Rome

>>>>where I live people wears shorts in
the summer<<< In European cities you don't see locals wearing shorts at all.

Yes, you will get in with capris.

I guess Jewlhawg is back now since she went in Oct.
Perhaps she will still get back with us with her findings.

It sounds like the goals is this: to wear shorts and sleeveless tops wherever you want to because they are so much more comfortable & that's what you do back home.
Is that the idea? I am not sure the goal should be to allow whatever is the norm back home...

The levels of good taste and class are constantly being challenged in order to lower them. Some are forcing a line to be drawn. Class is voluntary, not imposed.
So Mediaqueen, just use prudence. When in doubt, don't.

And as far as rude comments go had this been a thread about fashion & style you would have seen some real fireworks., this is nothing.