Pants, Tank, Scarf

OK, remember how I said that Romans are still bundled up in spring?  Forget everything I said.  Starting around May 1, everyone in Rome decided to acknowledge that temps are in the 80s and switched wardrobes, seemingly overnight.  I see legs!  Arms!  Sometimes much more.  The outfits are definitely interesting.  I’ll have to try to capture some street style for you.

I’m glad for the switch.  It has been over 90 the past few days, and it is only May.  I’m a little leery of this summer.  Because we arrived at the end of August, we did not get the full Roman summer experience.

All of this to be said, if you are coming to Rome in the summer, as many tourists do, expect to sweat.  It can be pleasant in the shade with a breeze, but prolonged exposure in the direct sunlight is brutal.

Unfortunately, you can’t just pull out your easy summer dresses and call it day.  Because CHURCHES.  Many churches, most notably St. Peter’s, have a knees and shoulders must be covered dress code.  Some churches don’t have it.  Some churches don’t enforce it.  But you don’t want to wait in line for an hour only to be turned away.

Here are three combos that will keep you comfortable in the sun and get you in wherever you want to go.  These outfits also pass the Rome-test.  I’ve seen versions of all of these on locals.  Stick with these, and you won’t have to worry about sticking out as a tourist.

Option 1:  Easy top + Lightweight Crazy Pants + Breezy Scarf

This outfit is my go to, and I’m not even worried about church access 99% of the time.  It is just SO comfortable.  The fun pants make me feel like I tried, but it feels like I’m walking around in my pajamas.

Not only do they feel like an actual outfit, but they are high on function.  Want to climb on a bike in Borghese?  No problem.  Snagging a Vespa pic?  No awkward shifting needed.  Forgot to shave your legs because you have ALL the sightseeing to do?  No sweat.

In theory, the pants could also provide some protection from the punishing Mediterranean sun and those annoying mosquitoes that won’t take a hint.

Also, I think crazy pants also look good with most jackets.  Denim, leather, military, you name it.  Many cardigans would work as well.  Just in case you need a little more warmth at night when your trusty scarf isn’t cutting it.

Speaking of scarves, if you go for a tank option, the scarf is key.  As you approach the church, drape it around, and bare shoulders no more!  After many years of not knowing what to do with scarves, I am now fully obsessed.  Besides being a go to nursing cover, they are like washable necklaces!  Perfect for #kidlife.  Also, if you pack fewer clothes, they can help you spice up your wardrobe.  If I don’t wear different shirts in my normal life, you’d better believe I’m taking a minimalist approach to vacation packing.  Seriously, though, who cares what thousands of strangers you’ll never see again think?

Rome is a great place to stock up on scarves, as well.  I see them all over the streets for about three euro.  Functional souvenir?  Now you’re speaking my language.

When selecting your pants, go for a lightweight, breathable fabric.  Pass on the polyester.  I also steer clear of linen, but that is just because I don’t iron anything ever.

For style, I prefer the tapered leg, but you have about a bazillion options.  Wide leg, harem, palazzo, gaucho, you name it.

If you don’t like colorful patterns, you can get the same comfiness with a solid pant.  BUT if you ever felt like getting a little crazy in the pants department (name of Amy’s sex tape), this is a good town to try it.  Seriously, I’ve seen drop-crotch harem paisley pants walking down the street.  Just own it, and you can pants however you like.  Yeah.

Option 2:  Maxi Dress or Skirt + Scarf

I don’t really do the maxi because, while I have many blessings, the gift of height is not one of them.  Also, I’ve gotten so lazy that I can’t handle any dress that requires a special bra.  So many of the cute dresses have spaghetti straps or some such tomfoolery.

But if you are into the maxi, this would be a great option for Rome.  I’d look for one with side slits, possibly two for movement and breeziness.  And remember!  If you don’t have sleeves, don’t forget your scarf.

Option 3:  Breathable Leggings + Tunic or Blousy Top

This option is also not at the top of my list, but I promise I see locals rocking it on the reg.  On the one hand, there is high opportunity for crazy pants.  On the other hand, fabric suctioned to my body does not sound cool and breezy.  BUT, if you get athletic wear, those pants are supposed to breathe, right?

My other issue with blousy tops is that so many are sheer, which would make me reach for another layer, which sort of defeats the purpose.  But, again, this is Rome.  I have seen completely sheer shirts, lace shirts, crochet shirts, and shirts with holes cut to the waist; all worn with regular bras.  (I have also seen many women exercising in regular bras, but this is another topic for another day.)  Also, bum coverage should not be a concern.  Do it if you are more comfortable, but I promise you won’t stick out.

Clicking the pics should take you to the products.  Nothing affiliated; these are just things that caught my eye.  Old Navy and Nordstrom are both having sales.  (Although isn’t Old Navy always having a sale?)

So there you have it.  My formula:  easy top + crazy pants (or skirt) + scarf.  Everything you need for your upcoming trip to Rome.

But Melissa!  What about shoes???  You’ve forgotten the most important part!

I agree.  Shoes can make or break your travel day.  That’s why I’ll cover shoes soon in their own post.  [UPDATE: Shoes HERE.]  (And maybe dude style if I’m feeling ambitious.)  Till then, may the crazy pants be with you!

Have you embraced the crazy pants?  What’s your usual warm weather travel wardrobe?