I will be going to Florence in two weeks. Anyone who just came back - what are the women wearing. Just some tips so I don't stick out like a sore thumb. I know, I know - no jeans or tennis shoes, but what else can you tell me?

it is getting warm in italy for american standards. The italians even believe it is getting warm also. During the day you probably won't see leather coats, scarves, etc on the italians but you probably also won't be seeing sleeveless clothes (yet). I'd suggest layers.

I didn't realize you couldn't wear jeans and sneakers in Florence - is that true? What is an average tourist like me who emphasizes comfort more than appearance supposed to wear. We will be in Rome, Florence, and Venice in the first 2 weeks of June.

Thanks.

Windows - hdw is right on.

Aurora - "couldn't" is strong. Wearing tennis shoes, unless you are a teenager, generally means you are a tourist, but in June there will be lots of other tourists, so you will just look like them. However, lots of people, even in Italy, wear jeans, but generally not out to dinner or in the evenings as much.

As for shoes, I have black shoes that are like little boots that are great for walking around. In June, you could go for comfortable loafers or black sneakers. Or, you could not worry about it, wear whatever you want, and enjoy Italy! You will have a great time.

I'd leave the Hawaiian shirts at home, though...

Karen

I'd also prefer khakis or capris to jeans b/c they are cooler.

I think you should wear what you know looks good and feels good on you and leave the "fashion police" at home to man the keyboards.

Very good point, hdw!

Florence is absolutely packed with tourists from every country and fashion spectrum. I'd wear whatever you feel like. When I was last there in March I saw more (american) college sweatshirts and sorority/fraternity clothing then I'd seen while I was in college on campus!

Windows- the thing to keep in mind about Europeans in general is, they tend to dress more modestly(show less skin)then Americans, unless they're at the beach.
My travel wardrobe roel models are: Jackie Kennedy & Grace Kelly casul elegance.
Capris Kakis, not too many prints. comfy loafers.I also love some of the chic new tennis shoes that don't look like tennis shoes, like the ones by Diesle.
People say Americans have no style then why are Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly still emulated today, throughout the world?
Be American Be Proud.
Fluffy

We are going in September. Are bare arms on women frowned on? I was planning on bring sleeveless summer dresses.

I know you shouldn't wear sleeveless dresses or tops into the churches in Italy - I don't know about France.

We are going next week and have been for the last 2 years. I like to bring sleeveless twin sets so I can tie the sweater around my shoulders, or put it on in churches. And YES, you have to cover your arms in churches. I was denied entrance into the church where Michelangelo is buried, while my husband got to go in! Keep in mind it is HOT and humid, and buildings just aren't thoroughly airconditioned like we are used to. I'm from Texas and it was hot for me!

In the thick of summer I would not worry too much about sleeveless tops, as long as its tasteful, you'll be fine.
Bare arms & legs are not permitted in churchs, so no mini skirts either.
Be comfy-its hot.
Fluffy

as above posters have mentioned, you do have to be dressed modestly to be admitted into the churches in italy. however, in florence at least, i would not say that the women are particularly modest in their dress. short skirts and barely there tees are seen everywhere. (most italians do not wear shorts unless they are at the beach, though.) fashion is edgy at the moment -- lots of dramatic makeup and jagged lines to the clothes. as for sneakers, i would say they are ubiquitous -- but only of a certain type. boxing shoes/boots, anything by diesel or prada, and retro running shoes are popular. white nikes with white socks would stick out a little. jeans are practically a religion here, so if you have them wear them. at replay, diesel, guess, and others the cheapest pair you'll find goes for over 100 euros. have fun!