we will be in italy in early september. it will probably be hot so we are trying to determine what to bring and wear.<BR><BR>in sorrento it seems like anything goes including shorts and sandles.<BR><BR>in venice, rome and florence should we be more formal with long pants and closed shoes?<BR><BR>we are in good shape and tend to avoid tours. the only museums we will focus on are in florence. <BR><BR>what do you suggest to wear in the tuscan countryside.<BR><BR>any input on what to wear would be appreciated.<BR><BR>thanks,<BR><BR>jacob<BR>

Geez - not another what to wear post. Wear what you feel comfortable in. There's no official dress code for Italy!! Typically its casual for daytime and less casual for evenings. You'll be fine in pants, shorts, shoes, sneakers, sandles, suits, socks, same as you would here.<BR><BR>Fodors - how about (2) separate topic areas added to the site. . . WEATHER and FASHION! <BR><BR>

Jacob,<BR>Venice, Rome, and Florence are not formal. Be prepared for lots of walking so wear very good shoes and comfortable clothing.

I would suggest wearing comfortable shoes that are not tennis shoes (open toe is fine). For ladies I would suggest wearing capris instead of shorts. Also might want to consider twin sets so you have sleeveless during the day and something to put over your shoulders when visiting churches and for the evening (nights should be cooling off in Sept). Additionally, light weight dresses (my choice) are both comfortable and easy logistically when you need to use a squat toilet. When I was in Venice last week there were very few people wearing shorts and tennis shoes. People were dressed nicely.

Remember you all are not going to Italy to model. Wear the same clothes that you'd usually wear if you were still at home. Why is there such a preoccupation with how to dress when going to Europe? Believe me, when in Florence you're going to see many people in shorts and sneakers when it's hot and no one is standing around criticizing how the other one is dressed-there are far more important sights to see. Same goes for the rest of Europe.

I agree with all the previous answers for dress codes when traveling abroad. The thing to remember is that your on vacation and most of the people around you are on their lunch hour from work. Of course they will look better. Check the weather for the time of your trip, wear comfortable but not too casual clothes, good shoes you have worn before and you'll fit right in. Have a great time!!