Hi All, We're leaving for Rome on Wednesday(mom and 12 y/o daughter). We have everything all set, but I have one essential question. My daughter has some lovely wool skirts to wear touring but they all come to just above the knee. If she were to wear dark opaque hosiery with these skirts, will we be able to go into St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican? We used to live in Europe so you can rest assured that we won't show up in track suits and running shoes(LOL). Thanks, Threehearts

I wouldn't be concerned about the dark hosiery. You'll see a little of everything, clothing wise, and as long as it's reasonable, you'll not have a problem getting in.

the last time I was there, they actually measured my skirt.

Thank you, danon. Your response was very helpful. I think that we'd all love to hear the details so that others may be as prepared(or unprepared) as you. Threehearts

I don't think this is a question about taste or fashion regarding the dark hosiery, but whether they can get by the dress code which is that skirts cannot be above the knee. Maybe the idea is that the guards won't notice or think dark hose are more tasteful with dark skirts than light-hose, so they'll let them in. I don't see what running shoes has to do with the whole issue, I've never heard anyone say they check styles of shoes.

I imagine no one can guarantee for you what will happen, as it will be up to the guys checking dress when you go by as to whether they'll not notice or decide that is okay, especially for a girl of that age. If she's not really big for her age and doesn't look more like an older teen, I'd think it will work. I think they are more lenient with children, and that's probably why it will work. I have seen some 12 year olds that look 16 or older, though.

If there is rule about skirt lengths, I think it's best to follow them to the letter. Why risk a potential upset?

I appreciate the responses. We are a well-traveled family and we are not wishing to skirt the rules but rather I am asking so that I may go out and purchase new clothing if necessary, for my child. I didn't expect there to be a suspicion about my motives or sarcastic responses. I'm a long time poster here and try to help others. As far as the comment from me about the oft-seen American outfit, I was just trying to be funny because so many posts here address that particular style. I didn't mean to offend. My real question is will an inch or two in skirt length affect my daughter's ability to go in the churches? I thought that the conservative hosiery would help. Thanks. Threehearts

In answer to your question, I'm not sure anyone really knows if an above the knee skirt with dark hosiery will be accepted. So, I suggest(as others have) that you avoid any potential issue by bringing a pair of pants or skirt that is obviously not above the knees.

threehearts: uh - where was "sarcastic"?? Every reply was to the point (although eyes' answer does not reflect my experience)

No one offered anything other than useful info/advice

Shop around for a VERY thin step in skirt that can be stuffed in a purse. That way you can dress as you please and will still be able to stop by at any church you come across.

Threehearts, I agree with the others. If the rule is no skirt above the knee, I would comply. Sure you might be able to break the rule and sneak by, but what if you aren't? At times practical and respectful do out weigh fashion.

Maybe I'm missing something here, but would wearing pants the day you'll be in churches be easiest?

Thanks for the replies. I think that I must be very crabby today and I apologize. My daughter wanted to wear 2 of her to-the-knee wool skirts with some flat, black leather boots on touring days. I think that she fancied this a very grown up look for her birthday trip. Of course, nice pants is the answer and no doubt the easiest solution. Threehearts

Threehearts, obviously, we don't know what some guard at a particular church on a random day will decide, but I think the outfit you describe (if the skirts are truly, honestly "just" above the knee and worn with tights) would be fine.

Several years ago, I was allowed into the duomo in Milan wearing a wool skirt "just" above the knee over tights.

I do think it matters what the rest of the outfit looks like, whether things are coordinated, cover up, fit well, etc. Bottom line, does she look like a 12-year-old or someone trying to look much older?

Thanks, Jean. She looks like a young girl(no makeup etc.). She planned on wearing a white shirt with a V-neck sweater over it. I think that we'll just go with slacks. I won't have to run to the clothing store and she'll be safe.

Threehearts

I think her outfits sound tres chic and she should definitely pack a couple skirts w/ dark hosiery. Just wear them on alternate days when a church isn't on the agenda. And one pair of pants to cover (so to speak!) the other times.

Certainly no need to go shopping, or for your daughter to miss out wearing some of her favorite outfits traveling. sounds like she has good fashion sense for her age!

suze, I totally agree with your last post. I like the way this young girl dresses herself. Sounds stylishly great for touring Rome. If I were the parent, I would follow the suggestion of taking a very light weight/non-bulky cover up just in case. That way she gets to dress so well & feel proud of herself, but a solution is at hand, just in case. Perfect solution.

threehearts, hope you encourage her to consider some exposure to fashion & design. May be her future! Please let her know that many of us have praised her style!

Have fun, Julie

threehearts,

..."skirt the rules..." Great pun!

Her proposed outfit sounds just like the school uniforms you see young girls wearing in Italy. I can't imagine a group of schoolgirls, stopping at a church after school, being refused entry.

Sorry, but I have been to the Vatican and I have seen women turned away for wearing a skirt above the knee. My own good friend, Heather, had to wrap two sweaters around her waist to get into St. Peter's because her skirt was above the knee.

I would bring a pashmina along. You can wrap that around your snapper's waist if the Fashion Police, who carry measuring tape with them, throw a hissy over a skirt length.

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