Packing 101 For Living in Italy
Before traveling to Italy, I found it very difficult to determine what I needed to pack. I scoured the internet and read countless blogs. To be honest, they were all too long and didn’t account for an active lifestyle. My wardrobe in Italy is a far cry from my wild fox shorts and rainbow sandals days in Venice, CA.
So, here is what I THINK you need to bring to Italy in the winter if you are more of an adventurous gal. Realistically, you only need to pack for a week/week and a half if you have laundry services. CAUTION: PACK SOCKS, or stockings or long underwear…your leggies will get cold. No sandals needed.
Shoes:
- Booties with a heel (I am short and need height…also good for jumping puddles)
- Black riding boots (I cut off the harness on my Frye boots) / snow boots if you’re way north)
- Slippers/Uggs aka warm house shoes (All Italians have house shoes for good reason. It’s cold, you can’t walk barefoot here)
- Running shoes (black if you have them so you can wear out too)
- Flats (black / nude to wear with socks)
- Heels (One pair of black heels)
Bottoms:
- Black Pants
- Printed trousers
- Long Black Skirt
- Denim of choice
- Overalls (see below from AK in Venice, CA)
Layers and layers. I’ve got cotton thigh highs on for warmth.
Tops:
- White collared shirt
- Long sleeve cotton henley
- Flannel
- Sweaters (Tan, Black, Grey)
- Long sleeve cotton shirt in Olive
Coats:
- Grey / black peacoat
- Patagonia Black Nano Jacket (water proof)
- Cashmere wrap / poncho
- Running Jacket (Lululemon)
I borrowed this coat from a friend and wear it everyday.
Workout Gear:
- 3 pairs of leggings
- 1 pair of shorts
- long socks
- 2 pairs of running socks
- gloves
- running hat
Everything is very basic because life is very basic. I am living in a small town but still think this list would work for Milan. I haven’t left the house in workout gear once to go to the store. I get dressed every morning with purpose. However, I did go to Francesco’s dance class in my pajamas.
Hope this helps you pack for your trip!
x T