What to Pack for a Trip to Rome

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These days packing is a production. Especially if you're headed on your European summer vacation and trying to do so with only a carryon. But there are some tricks of the trade—and it always helps to know what you will need to look stylish and seasonally comfortable when headed off on holiday. Here, the essential packing pieces to bring on a trip to Rome this summer— from the comfortable shoes you can walk in all day, the accessories you need to dress up your look, and the airy dresses you can rely on to look chic and feel comfortable in while out on a day of touring.

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Susan Tread in Black Nappa

I have long held that Emme Parsons makes some of the best shoes around. The designs are classic and elegant, but very low key. These sandals are no exception—and they are comfortable. Plus they are relatively unobtrusive when it comes to packing. A must-have option for days walking around on the cobblestones of Rome.

BENEDICT DRESS

On the day to day in Rome, it can get quite warm, so I find it best to bring as many sundress options as possible. This ivory number by St. Roche has been a favorite of the summer, as it's elegant and not too casual. Just remember to bring a wrap or a sweater with you to go into any religious landmarks.

Malena Skirt Black Embroidered

For evenings out, I always think it's best to stick with a classic silhouette that has been bumped up with ornate details. This skirt, is perhaps the perfect example of that methodology. With a black and white gingham pattern, you could pretty much swap in and out accessories depending on how dressed up you want to get. But the sheer waistband, and embroidered detail add extra elegance. It's a piece I'd bring on any metropolitan trip.

The Demi

I always bring a pair of classic ballet flats on a trip with me, and as has been long documented, Margaux makes my go-to pair. They add polish to any outfit but are still comfortable enough to get some serious sight-seeing steps in.

Clarita embellished braided metallic leather sandals

When I'm traveling I try not to bring a ton of stilettos as they can be limiting. Instead I reach for a metallic shoe with a block heel. You can pair these with jeans and look super cool, but if you need to be dressed up, the gold hue and the braided weave kick the formality of the footwear up a notch.

Women's Sleeveless Flared Knit Dress

Crochet and knit dresses are everywhere this season and for good reason. They add a bit of texture and summery interest—especially when designed in a timeless shape. I have a version of this dress in a neutral tan and I love it for evening events. It's elegant but not fussy and the very best part just might be how easy it is to fold up and pack.

Arnetta Denim Dress

When in doubt, pack a denim dress for daytime. Understated sophistication at its very finest.

Allegra Raffia Pouch

Packing accessories in a carryon can be a bit of a pickle. But when it comes to evening bags, I like to go with a pouch that I can pack flat. And a raffia version? You'll use it on every summer trip going forward.

Royal Toscana linen dress

For the days that are sweltering, linen is best. I love this A-line dress, which I have in both black and white, because it is airy and breathable. But once you add a good sunhat and a cool pair of shoes, you don't look like you're necessarily headed to the beach.

Janessa Leone Gloria Hat

One thing you'll notice while walking around in the Eternal City is that you get a lot of sun. Always pack some sort of hat. My go-to is my Janessa Leone Gloria, because it's not overly beachy, but it's not a fedora either.

Violet Short

If you're headed to Rome in summer it will be hot. You will be wearing shorts. So why not make them a little bit more elevated than a pair of denim cutoffs?

Pima Slim Crew

Always, always bring a tee or two. My go-to is the slim fitting version from Buck Mason.

Boatneck Sweater in Ultrafine Cashmere

There will be moments where you need to cover your shoulders, or you might catch a chill in hotel AC. Wear a lightweight cashmere sweater with an easy fit on your flight and carry it with you every day. Pro tip: keep the color neutral so you can ensure it goes with all of your outfits.

Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal

Birkenstocks are sinfully comfortable and make a great shoe to travel in. You can walk in them for long distances and slide in and out of them at airport security; an essential no matter where you are headed. I prefer these because the oversized gold buckle feels a smidge more feminine.

Linen Cropped Tuxedo Jacket

For evenings when things aren't determined by a strict dress code, a linen jacket is an outfit-maker in the blink of an eye. Throw it over your daytime look and go.

CAROLINA RED VINTAGE

The easiest way to bring a bit of interest to an outfit made of basics that you can mix-and-match is a pair of kickass shades. Enter: Lapima's unique shapes and colorways. They're effective from a practical standpoint, but perhaps equally important, they are major conversation starters.

Puffy Faye Knockers

If you're trying to not overpack your baubles on your trip, let the only pair of earrings you bring be these. They're sizable and add flourish to any outfit day or night and they have a fun retro feel.

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