Lake Como is Italy at its most composed — gardens tumbling down to the water, faded villas, ferries between little towns, and a kind of old-world elegance that has nothing to do with the beach. You don't dress for sand here; you dress for gardens and terraces and long, unhurried lunches. Think refined and romantic, never resort-casual.
The Como register: refined and romantic
Como sits closer to Capri and Monaco than to the Greek islands — polished, a little dressy, always elegant. This is where the European Summer Formula tips toward its more refined end. A soft polka-dot maxi like the Colombe Sleeveless Polka-Dot Maxi ($54) has exactly the romantic, slightly retro charm the lake calls for.
Villas, gardens, and Bellagio
For wandering Bellagio's stepped streets or the gardens of Villa del Balbianello, choose pretty and easy-to-move-in. An eyelet tie-neck midi like the Romane Eyelet Tie-Neck Midi ($74.99) is ideal — refined enough for a villa, comfortable for a day on your feet.
Evening by the water
Dinner on a terrace over the lake wants softness and a little polish. An eyelet cotton blouse like the Adèle Eyelet Long-Sleeve Cotton Blouse ($84.99) with tailored trousers, or a soft maxi, is quietly perfect. Flat leather sandals for the cobbles, one dressier pair for night.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear in Lake Como?
Refined, romantic pieces — soft printed maxis, eyelet midis, and elegant blouses — rather than beachy resort wear. Como is about gardens, villas, and lakeside dinners, so lean polished and pretty, with flat sandals for cobbled streets and one dressier pair for evening.
Is Lake Como dressy?
Yes, more than the beach destinations. Como has an old-world, refined elegance — think Capri or Monaco rather than the Greek islands. Polished, romantic dressing feels right for its villas, gardens, and terrace dinners.
What shoes should I wear in Lake Como?
Flat leather sandals for the stepped, cobbled towns like Bellagio by day, and a dressier flat or low sandal for lakeside dinners. Comfort matters — there's a lot of walking and many stairs.
What colours work for Lake Como?
Soft, refined tones — white, cream, navy, and gentle prints like polka dots — suit the lake's elegant, garden setting. A quiet palette keeps everything looking considered and romantic.
Keep reading
More Italy: Capri Style Guide, What to Wear in Positano, and the European Summer Formula. Shop the look in The Sofia Edit, Quiet Luxury Essentials, and European Summer.
— Sabine