Capri is the most composed of the Italian islands — a little 1960s, a little Jackie-on-a-boat, all crisp white and lemon groves and people who look impossibly put-together doing absolutely nothing. You don't dress down for Capri the way you might for Greece. You dress with a bit of polish, even at lunch.
Here's a Capri style guide for looking like you belong in the Piazzetta.
The Capri palette: white, with polish
Crisp white is the island uniform, but Capri wears it more tailored than the Greek islands do. Think clean lines, a pressed edge, nothing rumpled. A polished button-down maxi like the Sylvaine White Sleeveless Button-Down Maxi is exactly the register — elegant enough for the Piazzetta, easy enough for a boat.
Daytime: easy but considered
For wandering the Via Camerelle or a lemony lunch at Da Paolino, keep it simple and pretty. A polka-dot maxi like the Colombe Sleeveless Polka-Dot Maxi has that soft retro Capri charm without trying too hard. Add flat leather sandals — famously, the island's own — and a straw bag.
Boat days to the Faraglioni
Everyone takes a boat around the Faraglioni rocks. A relaxed midi like the Romane Eyelet Tie-Neck Midi throws over a swimsuit and still looks lovely when you stop for lunch on the water.
The one rule: keep it a little elegant
Capri rewards restraint and polish over beachy ease. Pressed linen, clean white, a bit of 1960s spirit, and proper sandals will carry you from morning espresso to evening in the Piazzetta.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear in Capri?
Crisp white and soft neutrals with a little polish — clean button-down dresses, easy maxis, wide-leg trousers, and flat leather sandals. Capri is more elegant than beachy, so keep everything pressed and considered, even by day.
What shoes do you wear in Capri?
Flat leather sandals — the island is famous for handmade ones — are ideal for the cobbled streets and steps. Bring one dressier flat for evening; heels are impractical on the hills.
Is Capri dressy?
More than most islands, yes. Capri has a polished, 1960s-Riviera elegance. You'll feel most at home in crisp, tailored pieces rather than casual beachwear, especially in the Piazzetta at night.
What colours should I wear in Capri?
White is the island uniform, with soft neutrals and the occasional lemon-yellow or navy nod. A crisp white palette photographs beautifully against the whitewashed buildings and blue sea.
Keep reading
Continue with What to Wear in Positano, What to Wear in Amalfi, and The Best White Dresses for Italian Summer. Shop the look in The White Linen Edit, Côte d'Azur, and European Summer.
— Sabine