In Italy, shoes are customarily removed at the front door upon arrival at home. It is uncommon for Italians to go barefoot in the home, however, due to concerns over the spread of dust-borne pathogen.
In most of Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, shoes are never worn inside homes, and it can be seen as a sign of disrespect for guests to enter a host's home without leaving them at the door.
Don't wander around alone: Moving freely around someone else's home is considered rude and inappropriate. Accept something they offer: Leaving a house without having a coffee, a piece of cake, or even just a glass of water might disappoint your host.
In Italy, we do not wear sneakers in the office but we do wear them if we travel, if we are sightseeing and in any informal situation. Do not go for a less comfortable shoe out of this misconception, sneakers are perfect for Italy (see below for tips on stylish ones).
Wearing shoes inside someone's house is seen as a sign of disrespect in many cultures throughout Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. In countries such as Japan, removing shoes is a traditional practice dating back to an era when people sat on mats on the floor.
In many countries like Germany, Switzerland, Skandinavian countries, Turkey, Japan, Korea etc. it is common use to take off the shoes when entering someone's home. In these countries it is considered a major faux pas to walk through a house with shoes on.
Yes, Europeans wear sneakers—especially cool sneakers. But you'll rarely see fashionable Europeans wearing full-on running shoes (unless they're doing something athletic). However, even running shoes are starting to find their way into fashion so opt for a more subtle pair if that's something you're into.
Look for bright and light colors during this finicky season; when it's sunny, it's very warm. Jeans are a good choice or skirts in light fabrics. Match your bottoms with a quality tee or pretty blouse, and don't forget a sweater and light jacket for layering on cold days and evenings.
Also, apparently, some cathedrals will not let you enter wearing shorts. I am here to tell you, that this is incorrect. You can wear shorts in Italy and look perfectly normal. Here are a few examples of Italians we saw wearing shorts in Italy when it was in the mid-80s in September.
Keep Your Shirt On
Not only is it offensive to locals to have visitors wandering the streets in varying states of undress, it is also against many local ordinances and you can get fined. A good rule of thumb is to take a look around and see how the locals are dressed.
It is improper to put one's hands on one's lap, or to stretch one's arms while at the table. Resting one's elbows on the table is also considered to be poor manners. Do not leave the table until everyone has finished eating. Drinking beverages other than water or wine with a meal is quite uncommon.
Do not give a brooch, handkerchiefs, or knives as they connote sadness. Do not eat with your hands, not even fruits. Do not leave the table during dinner, which is considered rude. Do not point with your index finger and pinkie finger at the same time, which is considered extremely vulgar in Italy.
In Australia, many homes have a shoes off policy, but many do not. It is viewed simply as a matter of preference. In many cultures (see map below) it is considered rude and unhygienic to wear outdoor shoes indoors. Here in Australia, the majority opt for the convenience of keeping shoes on, especially as guests.
“Hosts requiring shoe removal should notify guests in advance,” said Will of Cambridge. “Although removing shoes may be the norm in some cultures, it is not the norm here in the US. Giving advance notice helps guests feel at ease by letting them know to wear appropriate foot apparel (i.e. socks).
Italians tend to dress simply and stylishly and in fitted rather than baggy clothing. Choose neutral colors like black, dark blue, beige, and white and pack button-down shirts and blouses; chinos; knee-length or below skirts; and a blazer or leather jacket if you're traveling in the shoulder seasons.
Absolutely avoid the Hawaiian print, khaki shorts, flip-flops and baseball caps. You will immediately be recognized as a tourist and there might be a few eye-rolls along the way. Even if summer in Italy is scorching hot, it's not uncommon to find men dressed in button-down shirts and well-fitted trousers.
Leggings are commonly worn in Italy, although they are not considered appropriate attire for more formal occasions. Are leggings OK to wear in Europe? Leggings are not a huge part of European fashion and are normally only used for exercise or going to the gym.
Avoid wearing spaghetti straps, sleeveless tops, crop tops, shorts, or above-the-knee dresses. Some attractions may offer cover-ups if you're dressed inappropriately, but others may deny entry altogether.
They are not a huge part of European fashion and are normally only used for exercise or going to the gym. So If you want to wear leggings during your trip, I would say it totally depends. If you are planning to walk or do something active, they are perfectly acceptable.
In Europe, in particular, sneakers are for sporting activities only. White tennis shoes, Crocs and Birkenstocks are notably frowned upon by Spaniards and Italians. Instead, wear comfortable leather walking shoes in the city, and keep them polished and in good shape.
European Fashion FAQs
Yes, you can. However, I would stick to more muted colors like black, white, navy or tan vs neon-colored sneakers. White sneakers are very popular in Europe at the moment and are often paired with jeans but also cute summer dresses.