Italy is one of the most famous countries on the luxury fashion map. You only have to walk down the streets of Italy to be met with women dressed in elegant clothing and men embracing the tailored suit lifestyle. If you feel inspired by Italian fashion, just know that this is already a step in the right direction. Here’s some Italian fashion inspiration for the modern woman.

1. More is More

We’ve heard one too many times that less is more, but this rule doesn’t seem to apply to Italian women. If you want to dress to impress, there is only one rule – accessorize, then accessorize some more. From bold statement shoes to scarves, hats, and accessories, don’t be afraid to mix and match materials, patterns, and styles to create unique outfits.

2. Shop Italian Designer Clothes

Italian women tend to stick to wearing designer clothes made by Italian powerhouses. However, when looking for inspiration, the price tags can be off-putting. The trick here is to know where to shop.

When shopping for affordable designer clothes, browsing online will garner the most success. For instance, if you are looking for a Golden Goose sale, the online world will instantly match you up with bargain pieces that can’t be found in physical stores.

3. Flatter Your Body

Italian’s love their food, but they also love looking after themselves. Instead of following traditional trends, they wear clothes that complement their specific figure. If you have curves, opt for an outfit that cinches in at the waist. If you have more of a slender tone, a bodycon or elegant midi skirt will accentuate your silhouette. It’s all about knowing what items suit your structure.

beautiful underwear to wear under your fashionable clothing

4. Don’t Overlook Underwear

Confidence comes from within, and in the world of fashion, this starts with lingerie. Although not an item for the world to see, wearing nice lingerie under your Italian-inspired outfit will leave you feeling put-together and like a true style guru.

5. Leave Some Areas To The Imagination Of Others

While Italian fashion is often about opulence, keep in mind that you should never expose too much. The trick is to stay classy and leave some parts about you to the imagination of others. Higher necklines are preferred, as well as mid-length dresses and skirts, looser shirts, and oversized blazers or coats.

fashionable woman wearing animal print

6. Go For Animal Prints

Animal prints are fashionable and easy to match with solid colors. They look good during the daytime and evening alike. For instance, you could pair a leopard print silk dress with white sneakers for a casual look or a snake print skirt with a button-up shirt and boots for an evening with your friends. If you think wearing animal print garments is too much, try these patterns on your bags and accessories.

7. Accessorise

Speaking of accessories, don’t be afraid to accessorize as much as you want. Wear several bracelets on both wrists, opulent rings, necklaces, and earrings. Don’t forget about hats and scarves that should either match or contrast with your shoes.

beautiful fashion accessories

8. Wear Heels

High heels look fantastic with all kinds of clothing. Don’t take our word for granted. Check out big brands like Gucci and Prada who pair heels with everything, including sportswear. While Italian women don’t always wear heels, they make sure to steer clear from flats whenever they attend a more formal event.

9. Don’t Forget Your Handbag

If you wish to look as stylish as an Italian woman, never forget your handbag. Italians love clutches and duffel bags. Totes are also popular, but messenger bags are only suitable for casual daytime or if you’re in your teens. Quilted bags are a great choice for the evening or to pair with a cocktail dress. 

10. Sunglasses are Non-Negotiable

Last but not least, don’t forget about sunglasses – even if it’s a cold winter day with no rays of sun on the horizon. Fashionable Italians always wear them. If you find them a bit too much or if you usually wear eyeglasses, put on a pair of oversized glasses with photochromic lenses to keep yourself stylish and trendy.

There are many elements that contribute to Italian style, but when done correctly, the finished look is jaw-dropping. Keep this inspiration in mind when on your next shopping trip and see where it takes you!