Italian weddings are often a reflection of the country’s deep-rooted traditions, with ceremonies taking place in different scenic settings. Whether it’s a grand church in the heart of Rome, a luxurious villa on the Amalfi Coast, or a charming vineyard in Tuscany, each venue has its own unique atmosphere. Depending on your venue, your attire may also be influenced or tailored according to the vibe.

Typical Venues

• Churches - Many Italian weddings are held in historic churches, where a formal dress code is typically observed. It’s important to dress modestly, especially for religious ceremonies. Choose a midi dress or a maxi dress that offers sufficient coverage while maintaining an elegant silhouette.

• Vineyards and Villas - For weddings in vineyards or private villas, the ambiance is often more relaxed yet still chic. Here, you can embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings with lighter fabrics and more vibrant colors.

Cultural Dress Codes

Italian wedding traditions often dictate specific dress codes. For example, it’s customary to avoid wearing black or white — black being too gloomy, and white being reserved for the bride. Instead, embrace a palette of pastels, jewel tones, and floral prints that reflect the season and the joyous occasion. Understanding the dress code is important so that you’re dressed appropriately, especially in more formal or traditional settings.

Formal vs. Semi-Formal

Italian weddings may vary in formality depending on the venue, time of day, and the couple’s preferences. A formal wedding, often held in a church or an upscale venue, calls for a long gown, a maxi dress, or an elegant midi dress.

Meanwhile, semi-formal settings might include outdoor ceremonies or receptions in vineyards and villas. In this case, a midi dress, or a well-tailored mini dress can be perfect for these less formal but still elegant venues. If the wedding takes place during the day, choose lighter fabrics and shorter hemlines, such as midi dresses or mini dresses, which are both stylish and appropriate.

Fabric Choices

Italy’s warm climate, particularly in regions like Tuscany or Sicily, requires breathable fabrics that will keep you cool throughout the festivities. Look for dresses made from silk, chiffon, or lace — materials that drape beautifully and allow for ease of movement.

A silk maxi dress is an excellent choice for an evening wedding, offering a luxurious feel while keeping you comfortable. Chiffon and lace are also perfect for summer weddings, providing an airy, romantic look that complements a scenic Italian backdrop!

Color Palette

When selecting your outfit, also consider the color palette. Avoid white to respect the bride, and steer clear of black unless it’s explicitly allowed by the couple. Instead, go for soft pastels like blush, lavender, or mint, or rich jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, or ruby.

Floral prints are also a wonderful option, adding a hint of romance to your attire. For a chic alternative, consider wrap dresses in a deep hue or a printed design, perfect for making a subtle yet stylish statement!

Elegant and Light

Daytime weddings in Italy often have a more relaxed yet still refined dress code. A midi dress or mini dress in a light, breathable fabric is perfect for these occasions. Your attire should reflect this balance of comfort and sophistication so you can remain stylish and cool throughout the day. Here are some recommendations for an Italian daytime wedding attire:

• Midi Dresses - These are a go-to option for daytime weddings, offering just the right amount of coverage while still feeling light and breezy. The Gisa Midi Dress is a romantic option with its soft, feminine color and flowing silhouette. It’s perfect for garden or outdoor weddings, where its gentle movement and elegant design will shine. If you’re looking for

• Mini Dresses - For a more playful yet still appropriate look, consider a mini dress in a soft, pastel color or a delicate floral print. The Elsie Detail Short Dress, for example, offers a flattering silhouette with just the right amount of coverage. Its vibrant floral print also adds a playful and exotic flair, making it a standout choice. This dress style is perfect for a garden or vineyard wedding –– or if you’re looking for what to wear on an Italian summer getaway!

• Light Fabrics : Fabrics like cotton, chiffon, and linen are perfect for daytime weddings. They keep you cool while adding a touch of effortless elegance to your outfit.

While designer beach midi dresses and beach mini dresses from ViX are light and comfortable, they certainly don’t sacrifice style. Apart from these dress styles, you may also choose those that feature subtle details like lace trims or delicate embroidery to enhance your look. Overall, your goal here is to strike a balance between looking refined and staying comfortable so you can enjoy the day’s festivities without feeling overheated or restricted.

Accessories

Accessorizing is important to completing your look for a daytime wedding so you don’t look too plain. Consider wearing a chic hat, especially if the wedding is outdoors, to shield yourself from the sun while adding some style to your outfit. Sunglasses are another must-have, not only for their usefulness but also for their ability to enhance your look. A lightweight shawl can also be draped over your shoulders during the ceremony and then easily removed as the day warms up, so you remain comfortable and elegant.

Sophisticated and Glamorous

Evening weddings in Italy are a glamorous affair, often held in luxurious venues where sophistication is expected. Your attire should reflect the formality of the occasion, with a focus on luxurious fabrics, elegant silhouettes, and statement accessories. Some recommendations include:

• Maxi Dresses - These dresses are an ideal choice for evening weddings due to their elegant, floor-length silhouette that naturally screams sophistication. Maxi dresses offer a formal look that is perfect for the brilliance of an evening ceremony or reception. They also add a sense of grace and movement, making it an excellent option for dancing and mingling.

• Dark Jewel Tones - Evening weddings are the perfect opportunity to wear richer, deeper colors. Consider jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby that not only complement the evening ambiance but also make a bold fashion statement.

• Satin and Silk - For a truly luxurious feel, choose dresses made from satin or silk. These fabrics drape beautifully and catch the light in a way that adds depth and sophistication to your look.

A stunning recommendation would be the Angie Detail Long Dress in Naia from our designer beach maxi dresses collection. Made from luxurious silk blend fabric, this dress offers elegance and comfort. It also features a vibrant Naia print that adds visual and exotic appeal, perfect for making a statement at an evening wedding or upscale event!

While evening weddings call for more formal attire, it’s important to choose a dress that still allows you to move and dance comfortably. Look for pieces that combine elegance with convenience, so you can fully enjoy the celebration.

Jewelry and Accessories

When dressing for an evening wedding, your jewelry should complement your outfit without overpowering it. Choose statement pieces like chandelier earrings or a bold necklace that adds a touch of glamor to your ensemble. A satin clutch in a coordinating color can complete the look, offering both style and practicality. Consider adding a pair of elegant heels to elevate your outfit, but make sure they’re comfortable enough to wear throughout the evening.

For a more traditional city or church wedding, consider a midi dress that offers the right balance of coverage and style. Churches in Italy often have strict dress codes, so it’s important to choose a dress that covers the shoulders and falls at or below the knee. The Lorelay Detail Midi Dress is a beautifully crafted example that combines soft, romantic color with intricate detailing. Its ¾ sleeves, ruched detailing, and front slit make it a timeless design for formal occasions like weddings.

For the reception, you can go for a slightly more relaxed outfit, such as a chic cocktail dress. This allows you to enjoy the festivities while staying true to the elegance that Italian weddings demand.

Footwear

When attending city and church weddings in Italy, selecting the right footwear is important, as you'll likely be navigating a variety of surfaces, from cobblestone streets to polished church floors. Elegant heels, such as classic pumps or low-heeled sandals, add sophistication to your outfit while ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the day. If you need more stability, especially on uneven terrain, block heels are an excellent choice, offering both height and support.

For those who prefer flats, dressy options in luxurious materials like satin or leather can maintain the formality of your attire while providing comfort. 

Attending a wedding in Italy is an experience filled with beauty, tradition, and style. Whether you’re heading to a grand church in Rome, a vineyard in Tuscany, or a villa on the Amalfi Coast, your outfit should reflect both the elegance of the occasion and the unique charm of the setting. By choosing the perfect wedding guest dress, considering the venue and traditions, and adding thoughtfully selected accessories, you can ensure that you not only look stunning but also feel comfortable and confident throughout the event.

As you prepare for this special occasion, explore the collection of designer maxi dresses, mini dresses, beach midi dresses, and other elegant pieces from ViX to find the outfit that will make your Italian wedding experience truly unforgettable. Start shopping now to find the dress that will make you stand out, wherever the wedding takes you.