Business Dress Code in Italy

Italians have style and this is evident in the way they dress for work.

Styles of dress will vary from industry to industry with the more conservative professions of finance and the law favouring suits and ties and industry being somewhat less formal. Regardless of function, however, managers will invariably be very well-groomed wearing good quality, well-cut clothes.

The importance of appearance in Italy should not be taken lightly – if you want to be respected look the part! Looking good is as important for men as for women and women visiting Italy might be surprised to hear compliments made to them on their appearance. (Such comments are not considered politically incorrect in Italy.)

As it can get very hot in the summer, do not arrive with heavy northern European clothing in June – lightweight fabrics will make your visit much more comfortable.

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture. 

Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Italy only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.