I will be traveling to Italy in May and will be staying for a month. I've heard that Italians dress up more than Americans. Any suggestions?

I'm not really help to that.

But have an awesome time.

Italy sounds amazing!!

This is mostly true, depending on what part of Italy you are going to, and where in the US you are from. Don't wear tanks and short shorts, or running sneakers (unless they are super blinged out nikes or pumas! they love those it seems!) Pretty much anything that would look ok in NY would work, I would say. If you plan on sightseeing, especially in churches, bring sweaters to cover up as they are pretty strict on that sort of thing, and will give you paper garments to wear if they feel you are wearing something too revealing.

You are right - it is a more formal country than most of the US is. The rule is chic, whether you are doing the laundry or going for dinner. I always love the monochromatic looks in khaki and navy that Italian women put together - always with gold accessories. it looks super polished. If it's raining, a Barbour jacket will make you fit right in - people always used to ask me for directions when I wore mine, even other Italians! What else..... cute flats are the way to go for any occasion and go with anything, even skirts. Colored jeans are a totally European thing, so if you have some Dead Sexy jeans in a color, those always fit it too - esp with the flats and a cool boyfriend cardi. Have fun and take some style photos of cute Italians on the street!

I lived in Rome for awhile and I've traveled all over Italy. Best advice I can give you: listen to Chris and pack flats. Italian women train their entire lives to be able to walk on cobblestones in stilettos--it's best not to attempt wearing heels (maybe wedges).

Also, I suggest finding a small, cute umbrella to throw in your purse. The rain tends to sneak up on you.

Other than that, it's all about the accessories! Scarves, shades, bold jewelry, and bags that make a statement.