Weekend in Rome: Summer Style

This past weekend I took a quick trip down to Rome to visit my best friend and we had an amazing time! I am lucky that I have visited Rome in the past, so this time around I didn’t have to do the ‘touristy’ things, and instead got to enjoy more local living.

And the food, guys. Always so good! I ate this whole pizza. And I have no regrets.

But I digress. This post isn’t about the food (but look at those mushrooms). It’s about packing for a weekend in Italy during the summer. The thing about Italy is that it’s hot hot hot. Over 90 degrees every day, but you still want to be kinda stylish because the Italians really know how to dress.

We took Ubers around the city, and almost every time my driver was wearing a button down, tie, dress pants, and dress shoes. And the ladies walk all over these cobblestone streets in high heels like it’s no problem.

I guess what I’m getting at is that I wasn’t going to pack shorts, a tank top, and sandals to wear each day. I wanted to look nice but still be able to beat the heat. So here’s what I ended up wearing for my weekend trip to sunny Rome!

Getting There: Airport Style

Sweater: similar // Leggings: exact // Sandals: exact // Scarf: similar // Tote: exact

I am always chilly on flights, so leggings, long sleeves, and a scarf are necessary when I travel. The top is lightweight so I wasn’t too hot when I arrived early in the morning, and I used my scarf as a pillow or wrap when I needed it.

These Reef cushion sandals are so comfortable! Great for walking around all day and the strappy style is just a little more fashionable than your typical flip flop. Highly recommend these for long days on your feet!

Saturday: Biking the Appian Way

Top: similar // Skirt: similar // Shoes: exact // Sunglasses: similar

After arriving in Italy I changed out of my airport look into this sweet OTS top and breathable floral midi for biking the historic Appian Way. I didn’t go in any churches, but OTS tops likes these are actually perfect for an itinerary that might include them since you can bring the sleeves up over your shoulders when the churches require, and then bring them back down when you’re outside. And midi skirts are always a great choice for staying cool and looking nice.

You may remember these Lifestride sandals from my Instagram stories a few weeks ago. I was worried that they looked kinda grandma, but after this trip I am in love with them. I biked the Appian Way and walked over 12,000 steps with no blisters!

Saturday: Dinner and Drinks

Dress: (c/o Mint Julep Boutique) exact //Shoes: exact

I suggested wearing this dress for date night in a post last week, and it was seriously perfect for feeling elegant and airy in Rome for a nice dinner. We went to La Carbonara and enjoyed every single bite. The restaurant frequently tops the list of best places to eat in the area for outstanding Roman fare, and it didn’t disappoint.

If you’re looking for a pretty floral maxi, I highly recommend checking out Mint Julep Boutique’s selection. They have so many styles both casual and fancy that you’re sure to find something you love. If you sign up for their emails you get $10 off you first order!

Sunday: Shopping

Dress: exact // Bralette: exact // Sandals: exact

My final day in Rome was spent shopping. Knowing that this was going to entail a lot of walking, I picked my most breathable dress, this loose black maxi, and a lacy bralette for underneath. I usually wear this maxi as a swimsuit coverup, but it works just as well for hot days in the city.

And of course I rewore my Reef sandals since they’re comfy and you can’t pack too many shoes in a carry on!

Here are some other good tips if you have a trip to Italy planned this summer:

Churches require you to have shoulders and upper legs covered. If you plan on visiting some wear bottoms or a dress that goes to your knees and think about carrying a light scarf that can be wrapped around exposed shoulders.
Air conditioning isn’t as common as the United States. So you can be hot outside and not be able to find relief inside. Dress for 24/7 heat!
Pickpockets are everywhere. I think a small crossbody bag is best to position in front of you and keep close to your body to maintain your stuff.
Rome has potable water available all over the city, so don’t throw your water bottle away when you’re done. Keep refilling it at the free fountains to save your euro for gelato instead 😉

Ugh all this food and travel style talk has me bummed about the work week! Until the next vacation I guess!