[rs525]

For those of you who don't know, I'm going to Italy (leaving on September 23rd and coming back October 3rd) and I'm trying to decide what to pack. As far as pants go I want to bring four pairs, including one pair of ecru linen and one pair of medium grey tropical Wool. But I can't decide on the last two. I'm considering either:
Cotton Gabardine or Linen in Khaki
Dark Blue jeans or charcoal grey tropical wool trousers.

Some people would bring more but I'm trying to minimize the amount to pack as I'm afraid to check in a bag. We'll be staying in a VRBO property in the heart of Rome that has a washer but no dryer so I'll be able to do some laundry.

PS: I also plan on bringing a Navy blazer with me but should I also bring a casual linen jacket and a gabardine raincoat?

 

[fishertw]

When my wife and I were in both Italy and England, I found that darker trousers made us stick out as tourists less than lighter colors. In late September, I suspect the weather will be getting a bit cooler in Italy. Just an observation.

 

[Oldsarge]

I've never been to Italy in September but I'd imagine Fisher is right. I do know that in the summer time it can be beastly hot in mid-day. Hopefully you will have more pleasant weather.

 

[Dhaller]

I would ham it up, full Italiano: linen in creams and pastels, whites, linen-blend (silk?) sport coat in something like a lighter blue (not navy), maybe not even solid (like a subtle window frame or check).

Buy a scarf there and tie it around your neck. Straw fedora. Air-kiss people.

(There are two ways of looking like a tourist, (1) Marvin from Omaha with shorts and a camera and (2) a sprinkling of reverse-colonialist ennui. Spring for (2)!)

But yes, it’s going to be hot & sunny (probably).

DH

 

[Vecchio Vespa]

Definitely leave the jeans at home. I think charcoal tropical worsteds are terrific.

 

[blue suede shoes]

Yes, please leave the jeans at home. The other two pairs of pants should be cotton khakis/chinos that can easily be washed in whatever colors that you like. My choice of colors for the pants would be tan/khaki and navy blue, and I would bring the casual linen jacket. You won't need a raincoat, but you should bring a lightweight waterproof jacket in case you get any rainy days.

You plan on taking all of this in a carry-on? How? I can't even fit all of that in a suitcase without going over the weight limit.

 

[TheJoker932]

knowing the italians probably ultra tight drainpipes that squeeze the blood out of your legs
and make your testis twist after the first half hour
do yourself a favour and go alfresco
just spray the trousers on

 

[rs525]

You plan on taking all of this in a carry-on? How? I can't even fit all of that in a suitcase without going over the weight limit.

I'm going to try and use space saver bags.

 

[Doctor B]

I was in Italy for 11 days last September (Rome/Florence/Naples) and the weather was great: sunny, with highs in the mid to upper 70s with low humidity; nights were clear and in the upper 50s/low 60s. I only encountered rain a couple of days, and got by then with a cheap 10-euro umbrella.

My advice would be to go for a variety of fabrics and colors with your clothing -- with the lineup you mentioned, you'll definitely be ahead of most of the tourists.

I'd also say three pairs of pants is sufficient. Definitely leave the jeans for the gabardine or linen khaki. And take a waterproof jacket instead of the raincoat.

Have a wonderful trip! And I hope you display a little sprezzatura with your wardrobe when you're there!

Doctor B

 

[rs525]

I was in Italy for 11 days last September (Rome/Florence/Naples) and the weather was great: sunny, with highs in the mid to upper 70s with low humidity; nights were clear and in the upper 50s/low 60s. I only encountered rain a couple of days, and got by then with a cheap 10-euro umbrella.

My advice would be to go for a variety of fabrics and colors with your clothing -- with the lineup you mentioned, you'll definitely be ahead of most of the tourists.

I'd also say three pairs of pants is sufficient. Definitely leave the jeans for the gabardine or linen khaki. And take a waterproof jacket instead of the raincoat.

Have a wonderful trip! And I hope you display a little sprezzatura with your wardrobe when you're there!

Doctor B

Thank you so much. I'm actually thinking of now bringing a pair of khaki cotton gabardine pants, a pair of medium grey tropical wool, and a pair of taupe linen pants. I think those three will be able to get me through my trip. We're still figuring out what to do including day trips from Rome but there won't be any intense activity like hiking.

 

[DoctorZ]

Stop by the Vatican and see if the Pope wants to have a glass of wine. Offer to buy, but don't wear the jeans on that trip .

 

[rs525]

Stop by the Vatican and see if the Pope wants to have a glass of wine. Offer to buy, but don't wear the jeans on that trip .

Ha! We actually do plan on going to the Vatican and hope to attend a service with the Pope officiating, but I don't drink alcohol.

 

[LaraLopez]

Go for something stylish and comfy for Italy, especially if you walk around often. Italians are known for their sharp fashion sense, so you’ll want to blend in without looking too casual. A good choice would be a pair of slim-fit chinos or well-fitted jeans. Darker colors like navy or charcoal are always a win. You can also wear lightweight linen pants if you’re heading to the south or it’s hot; they’re breathable and look chic. Avoid anything too baggy – Italians tend to go for more tailored looks. And don’t forget a good pair of shoes to complete the outfit. You can check out italian men's fashion trends for inspiration; it’s always fun to see what’s in style there!