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World-famous ruins, art collections and museums have given Italy’s capital its moniker ‘The Eternal City’ and made it a perennial holiday destination for anyone in search of culture, history, and Italian charm. But while it's home to heavyweight fashion houses (Fendi, Valentino, and Bulgari), it has always played second fiddle in the style stakes to Italy’s fashion week host, Milan. However, with 2024's fashion-forward TV hit Emily in Paris turning its head to Rome, and Dior’s Cruise collection shining a spotlight on the capital, it seems Rome is making a play as Italy’s fashion centre. In the summer of 2025, the city will host Dolce & Gabbana’s legendary Alta Moda show, as well as various events hosted by Fendi as the brand celebrates its centenary this year.
Packing for a Roman holiday calls for a bold, in-the-know approach to fashion. Confidence is key. Consider well-fitting (not necessarily tailored), smart pieces such as a pencil skirt or a camel coat, always freshly pressed and snag-free. Wardrobes here are bold but not OTT – one showstopper skirt can be paired with a simple knit, a la Mrs Prada.
For a casual setting, think of understated but always-chic brands such as Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana, louche tailoring or effortless cuts – think Talented Mr Ripley or the modest cuts of Audrey Hepburn’s character in Roman Holiday. But for the more attention-grabbing gear, look to Rome's big hitters – Fendi, Dolce, and Gucci – who put Italian fashion on the map. A simple way to dress boldly without overdoing it is to colour block. An effortless suit is given the wow factor in a statement shade, or try pairing similar hues for a more put-together look. There’s also never been a better time to experiment with accessories - a headscarf is now a holiday staple – and don’t forget to pack some statement shades and some serious shoes.
A printed dress
A bold printed dress, whether boxy or fitted, oozes Italian style. It’s a one-stop, fail-safe item that delivers wearable va va voom with a single item. For a city break to Rome, choose one that will work for day-to-night and can be worn with layers if needed.
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A classic handbag
When it comes to beautifully crafted leather bags and shoes, Italians always know best. Bottega Veneta creates modern versions of its heritage handbag signatures, such as the intrecciato leather, updated with sculptural metal handle. Opt for a slim shoulder bag that is practical enough for essentials but sleek enough to not ruin an outfit.
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A smart suit
You can never go wrong in a sharp suit. Especially a colour-popping statement look, or pale colour in a relaxed, wide-leg fit. Layer over a roll neck for coffee in the arty Regola neighbourhood, or with a smart pair of sandals for a gallery tour. If a full suit feels too much for a city break, opt for a matching jacket and shorts, such as this smart set from Zimmermann.
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A printed blouse
A printed blouse will make a hard-working addition to light packing edit. Team with denim for a chic daytime look, or under a suit for the evening. Pair with statement earrings and flats for modern Italian style.
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A classic camel coat
If you're travelling in the cooler months, an elegant camel coat will keep you warm and looking the part. For the ultimate investment, embrace Italian heritage brand Max Mara which is famed for its timeless camel coats.
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A pair of colourful heels
There’s often a sexiness to Italian style that no other European can quite master, and what better way to inject a dose of this into your packing than a pair of stilettos? Choose a simple leather heeled sandal in bright shade and slip on with a shift dress for evenings out in the city. And be sure to add “get a pedicure” to your pre-trip to-do list. P.S., In Italy, leopard counts as a colour.
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Sunglasses
Don’t even book your flight without a good pair of sunglasses. Embrace Monica Bellucci levels of glamour with a pair of oversized tortoiseshell frames, ideal for strolling along Via Cola di Rienzo, or try a cat eye design for a sleeker look.
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A statement skirt
Mrs Prada knows a thing or two about wearable high-fashion, and nothing says Italian style like a statement skirt teamed with a simple block colour knit. This high-waisted skirt in powder blue will look beautiful on your next Roman Holiday. Pair with a light knit or t-shirt and flats.
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The headscarf
For a more Monica Vitti look, tie a headscarf nonchalantly under your chin and pair it with sunglasses and a smile. This is your holiday look for riding on a Vespa. Tie to the handle of your handbag for off-duty holiday dressing.
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Swimwear
For any day trips to the coast or for hotels with pools or spas, make sure you pack some stylish swimwear. We love colourful styles from Italian labels Missoni, Pucci, and Etro.
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Smart shorts
Another must-pack for any city holiday is a smart pair of shorts. This can be paired with a T-shirt or with a lightweight shirt for the day, and dressed up for the evening with a chic top and heels.
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Leather sandals
For a good day option that's smarter than a trainer but more practical than heel, look for a good quality leather sandal. A thinner strap works better with dresses or skirts, but a Fisherman style is great with shorts or jeans.
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