Going on first trip to Italy Nov 2nd, what to wear?

What type of trip are you planning? Mostly cities with some upscale restaurants and opera etc. Just casual touring and eating in simple trattorias. Hiking in the countryside?

And which parts of Italy?

For any of these you will need an umbrella, two good pair of walking shoes and either a raincoat with lining or midweight jacket. Everything else depends on what you're doing.

My husband and I are going on a tour with about 5 other couples; first to Rome, then Florence, Venice and ending in Milan. I believe all casual things. Any input is much appreciated.

Hi D,

Except for high-end restaurants, where a jacket for gentlemen is appropriate, wear what you would wear at home.

It is polite to be covered from shoulder to below the knee when visiting churches.

I bought two new pairs of walking shoes that I've been wearing for about two weeks now. Would it be inappropriate for me to wear a nice jogging suit touring Italy?

It might be appropriate for sleeping on the plane ride over. Or lounging in your hotel room. But unless you're planning to jog around Italy, yes I think it's inappropriate.

If comfort is your goal there are plenty of other choices: I'm leaving Friday for Italy and taking two pairs of pants, one corduroy and one a wool-cotton blend, plus a pair of lightweight jeans (I'll be in the countryside picking olives and hiking) and a medium-length skirt. A half dozen tops including one dressy one and a couple of turlenecks. A couple of sweaters, a leather jacket, and raingear. One pair of dressy shoes, one pair of short boots, and one pair of comfy flats.

It's not hard to look nice and be comfortable at the same time.

"Nice jogging suit" is an oxymoron! I saw two middle aged, non athletic-looking men on my flight to Maine last weekend wearing tear-a-way Adidas pants. WHY? It's not like a scrimmage was going to break out at baggage claim.

You had better get yourself to Versace or Gucci if you are heading to Milano because those city girls know how to dress. Get on any public bus and all the women are dressed up like Zza Zza Gabor on wedding day.

Wear your jogging suit in Milan and the thin and gorgeous will throw profiteroles at you.

marginal margiela (and your various incarnations), sometimes you are hilarious.

"Zza Zza Gabor on wedding day"

then you mean "everyday clothes", right?

sorry it took so long for me to reply back. Thanks so much for the advice of what not to wear. Now, what should I wear when I'm in Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan? I promise I will leave my BCBG sweat suit home!!! lol

I'm not sure i understand, BCBG generally means 'Bon Chic Bon Genre" ? If yes that's exactly what you have to pack !

BCBG is Max Azaria, the clothes designer. I will pack a few nice dress slacks and some turtleneck sweaters. Hopefully it won't get too cold in Milan in November. Thanks everyone.

Oh, thnks for the explanation. In France BCBG means "Tasteful chic, Good taste" (and has nothing to do with a specific designer)