What to Wear in Italy:

Dress code for churches:
Any visit to Europe involves going in and out of churches to look at art, but many are also regular churches being used by local people. Italy is still very conservative. You are entering a place of worship and are expected to dress and act accordingly. Do not speak loudly. If there is a religious ceremony going on, wait until it is finished to examine artifacts near the altar.
Some churches have signs indicating what type of clothing is acceptable, some have ushers at the doors turning people away who are not appropriately dressed.

Usually sleeveless tops and shorts are not permitted for either men or women in churches and other religious sites. A woman can carry a light shawl to cover her shoulders and upper arms when needed. Men are only allowed shorts that reach the knee (women must also wear skirts of that length), and show no cleavage.

General dress:
On average, Europeans tend to dress more elegantly than Americans. But things are a little more casual in Europe now then they were 10 years ago. Jeans are more popular, athletic shoes are more popular, but leather walking shoes are always nicer. You might want to dress up for dinner in a restaurant (nice shirt, cotton pants), although some restaurants still expect a jacket and tie. Be sure to ask them in advance. If you want to blend in more with the Italians, the key is to dress "stylishly" (as in "put together"), neatly and in what is most attractive for your body type. Neutral or muted colors are favored by Italians, women also like to add brighter colors for the summer.

Shoes: Remember, you're traveling to the shoe-capital of the world! Flip flops and rubber shoes are strictly for the beach. Socks with sandals are a faux pas. Italians generally frown upon sneakers, especially white, loud ones. But the younger crowd is more likely to wear them. Women generally wear nice shoes with a small heel, or fashionable boots and sandals. Men tend to wear loafers over sneakers, and classic shoes.

Jewelery, Accessories: Ladies always wear makeup, have their hair done in the latest fashion and wear gold earrings and bracelettes, rather than costume jewelery (mind the possibility of theft). Nail polish is usually applied for special occasions only.

Clothing, Women: Skirts and blouses, not showing too much skin. Long sleeveless dresses, slacks. Natural fabrics, cotton, linen, silk. Jeans. Colorful clothes in summer, black is also popular, especially in the evenings. Shorts are usually only worn by men (but not in the city), and children.

Clothing, Men: Natural fabrics, cotton, linen, silk. Fitted jeans, cargo pants for younger men. Linen shirts in white or off-white. Beige pants. Jacket in the evenings. Shorts should not be too tight or shorter than mid-thigh length, though those over 25 would not wear shorts in the city.

General: Avoid baseball caps, huge shirts with big logos, fanny packs, short shorts.