Summer in the Italian Dolce Vita style - the most beautiful trend of the season

What is dolce vita style about?

Dolce vita is something more than just a seasonal trend, it’s a fashion philosophy, which originated in Italy in the 1950s and 1960s when the film stars relaxed in Capri, Portofino or by lake Como. The style is based on lightness, natural fabrics and casual elegance, which never looks forced. The secret of the Italian style is in the skillful combining timeless elements, which can be freely matched. Instead of buying many clothes, it’s better to choose a few high quality pieces made from natural fabrics. A light linen shirt, airy dress, wide trousers or well-tailored shorts are a basis, which can be easily paired with classic accessories.

Natural fabrics – the foundation of the Italian style

Fabrics, which ensure comfort during the hottest weather are the main features of the outfits inspired by Italian fashion. Linen has been the symbol of the Mediterranean lifestyle for years. Its lightness and the characteristic structure ideally represents the Dolce Vita aesthetics, whose main asset is the naturality. High-quality cotton and soft viscose will also serve you well. They smoothly drape on the body, ensure breathability and guarantee comfort all day long. Summer dresses, shirts, wide trousers and elegant sets are made from these fabrics.

Colours and designs typical of the Italian summer

Colours characteristic for Dolce Vita draw inspiration from nature and Mediterranean landscape. The style is dominated by white, ecru and delicate beige, which beautifully enhance a summer tan and add freshness to the outfit.

There are also colours, which evoke the beauty of the Italian coast. Blue sky, deep navy blue, olive green or lemon yellow will add energy to the outfit and at the same time preserve its elegant style. When combined with natural materials, they create a harmonious whole that immediately brings to mind a Mediterranean vacation.

The trend is characterized by such elements as lemons, oranges, marina stripes or fine flower prints, which are the symbols of Amalfi and Sicily. They never dominate the outfit but add a unique touch and a holiday vibe. That’s why, they are usually a subtle detail that works perfectly with natural fabrics and subdued colours.

Wardrobe elements in the Dolce Vita style

Linen shirts and dresses

Linen is an absolute must-have for the Italian summer. Loose, linen shirt in the oversize style can be worn over your shoulders on a beach or with trousers to the office, it’s one of the most recognizable elements of the style. Linen dresses by Positano Couture, especially the midi shirt dresses or with a belt that emphasizes the waistline, will serve you well on a city walk or during a supper in an Italian trattoria.

Read also: How to wear a linen shirt?

Knit fabric

Other elements that represent the aesthetics of Italian Dolce Vita are openwork tops and sweaters, such as the one by Varley. Delicate weaves, laces, and subtle patterns will add a romantic vibe while remaining incredibly versatile. Thanks to their structure, they will serve you well on hot summer days, ensuring the comfort of wearing and a free air circulation.

Blazers worn over the shoulders

Linen or cotton blazers, like the one by the Italian brand 120% Lino, are usually draped over shoulders rather than worn in a traditional way. This simple trick adds lightness to an outfit and gives even classic combinations with a dress, linen trousers or shorts a refined touch. It’s a detail that has been appearing in the outfits of Italian fashion icons for years and perfectly captures the idea of effortless elegance.

The colour palette is dominated by timeless shades of white, ecru, beige or light sand, which can be easily paired with various elements of summer wardrobe. They can be effectively combined with blue, subtle pastels and natural accessories.

Palazzo trousers and wide legs

High-waisted trousers with wide legs, made from viscose, linen or silk are an ideal alternative to dresses. They ensure the freedom of movement and at the same time visually elongate the figure. They look best in écru, beige or white. The S’portofino collection offers pieces, which combine natural style with a sophisticated design by world famous brands. Thanks to them, a classic linen shirt or an openwork top gets a new fashion vibe and becomes something more than just a seasonal wardrobe element. It becomes the star of summer stories full of sun and carefree moments.

Accessories, which build the atmosphere of Dolce Vita

Accessories will add an Italian vibe even to the simplest outfits. Weaved bags by Dragon Diffusion or baskets by Muun are the absolute symbols of summer. Leather sliders, espadrilles or straw hats by Alemais and Catarzi 1910 remain an integral part of summer collections inspired by Italy. Jewellery is also subtle. Delicate gold necklaces, pearls or small earrings will complete the outfit without stealing the attention from the simplicity of the styling. Big sunglasses are very characteristic for this style, they’re usually oval or cat eye, they will add elegance and evoke the atmosphere of Italian Riviera. The BOGNER collection offers pieces that will complete your outfit.

Dolce Vita style - summary

Summer in the Italian Dolce vita style is mostly about the harmony between elegance and everyday comfort. Natural fabrics, light colours, feminine cuts and timeless accessories create a wardrobe that isn’t influenced by short-term trends. Citrus fruits, stripes and motifs from Italian ceramics are the characteristic features of this style, which is inspired by the life full of sun and celebrating everyday pleasures.