I've Studied What Chic Italian Women Wear—They'd Be All Over These 7 Classy Summer Pieces

Lately, it feels like whenever I open Instagram, someone is enjoying pasta with a view or taking a dip in the Mediterranean, Positano's colourful buildings clinging to the cliffside behind them. The Amalfi Coast is a popular destination at this time of year, boasting romantic restaurants and stunning scenery. So, it's no surprise that visitors want to dress the part, curating the perfect photogenic wardrobe that is unlikely to fit in a carry-on.

If you're in this situation, a word of advice: before you start stuffing twenty different sundresses into your suitcase, focus on the core pieces you know you'll reach for repeatedly. While a cascading maxi dress with dramatic puffed sleeves might look great on your IG grid, it's not necessarily the best use of your luggage space. Struggling to identify these feel-good items? Don't fret, because we've selected seven chic and practical pieces we promise you'll love wearing for early morning beach trips, balmy Sorrento evenings and everything in between.

1. Linen Shirt

Style Notes: Wherever you're jetting off to this summer—or even if you're staying local—a linen shirt is a non-negotiable. Trust us, it doesn't get much more effortless than this.

Shop the look:

With Nothing Underneath

The Boyfriend: Linen, Black

£110

The perfect bikini cover-up.

Arket

Loose Linen Shirt

£77

Layer it over a tank top or tuck it into denim shorts.

H&M

Linen-Blend Shirt

£19

Striped linen is always a good idea.

2. Simple Bikini

Style Notes: You'll likely spend a good chunk of your Amalfi Coast holiday by the sea (or in it), so bring along a bikini you'll be happy wearing non-stop. Generally, loud prints or bold colours have a shorter lifespan than minimal, neutral-hued sets.

Shop the look:

HUNZA G

Jamie Twist-Front Metallic Seersucker Bikini

£175

Hunza G is an influencer favourite, loved for its stretchy seersucker fabric.

& Other Stories

Bandeau Bikini Top

£29

The straps are removeable for versatile styling.

& Other Stories

Printed Bikini Briefs

£23

Just the right amount of coverage.

3. White Dress

Style Notes: A romantic setting calls for a romantic outfit. Enter the white cotton dress, an easy throw-on piece that exudes Italian elegance. Be warned, though: pizza sauce will stain, so maybe change before dinner.

Shop the look:

ASOS DESIGN

Off Shoulder Midi Dress With Pintucks & Crochet Trims in White

£45

A pretty all-in-one outfit for a warm summer's day.

Reformation

Jessi Linen Dress

£148

A linen mini will keep you cool in the heat.

Whistles

Poplin Cotton Mix Midi Dress

£89

Whistles' SS24 dress collection has seriously impressed us.

4. Raffia Accessories

Style Notes: Add a touch of raffia to any outfit to give it the holiday treatment, be it a hat, bag or sandals.

Shop the look:

BOUTIQUE BONITA

Wide-Brim Raffia Bucket Hat

£60

Cute and practical.

Maison N.H Paris

Carla Grand Raffia Basket Bag

£260

The black trim makes this tote feel very elegant.

Manebi

Beige Raffia Yucatan Sandals

£135

Leave your Birkenstocks at home and pack these raffia slides instead.

5. Denim Shorts

Style Notes: Don't be fooled into thinking denim shorts are boring just because they've been around for decades—2024 has proved just how current this staple can look, especially if you opt for a longline pair.

Shop the look:

AGOLDE

Parker Long Clean Organic Denim Shorts

£180

These will work with every look.

Reformation

Wilder High Rise Relaxed Jean Shorts

£128

If you prefer a little distressing, meet your match.

COS

Longline Denim Shorts

£65

Knee-length jorts are having a huge moment this summer.

6. Strappy Top

Style Notes: While it's fun to experiment with fashion in a new environment, it's also important to bring along reliable pieces you can pull out on low-effort days. A flowy blouse or strappy top ticks this box.

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& Other Stories

Rope-Strap Top

£77

Easy to transition from day to night.

ZIMMERMANN

Pop Embellished Scalloped Broderie Anglaise Linen Peplum Top

£478

I'm picturing this with a breezy white cotton skirt.

M&S Collection

Pure Cotton V-Neck Textured Cami Top

£25

Well done, M&S.

7. Light Tailoring

Style Notes: In summer, autumn, winter and spring, we'll continue singing the praises of tailored trousers. Stick to a lightweight fabric like linen or cotton twill for your Italian sojourn.

Shop the look:

Arket

Linen Trousers

£87

You'll pull these timeless trousers out every summer.

Nobodys Child

Red Tailored Waistcoat

£67

Opt for a joy-inducing pop of colour to match your summer vibe.

Nobodys Child

Red Relaxed Tailored Trousers

£85

The relaxed fit means these will be comfortable even after sampling the local pasta dishes.