From shoes and bags to jewellery, scarves, and watches – Italian style shows that the secret of elegance lies in balance, simplicity, and good taste.

In Italy, where style is a way of life, accessories are chosen with the same care as garments themselves and define an outfit’s character. Shoes, bags, jewellery, and even sunglasses are selected not only for their function but also for the elegance, harmony, and personality they bring to the look.

Here’s how to accessorise the Italian way.

Shoes and Bags

There are three classic methods for combining shoes and bags:

1. The Total Look – Shoes and bag in the same colour as the clothing, for example all-black with matching accessories. Textures and jewellery create contrast, while neutrals like white can also be used for a fresh effect.
2. Colour-Coordinated – Shoes and bag in a shared colour, independent of the clothing. A black outfit, for example, can be styled with dark blue, brown, or metallic gold accessories – or with red, pink, or yellow for bolder impact.
3. Modern Contrast – Shoes or bag echo the clothing colour, while the other accessory introduces contrast. For instance, black clothing with nude shoes and a metallic bag.

Italian women often choose Italian-made shoes, while men favour English classics like Oxfords or Derbys for formal wear, loafers for casual looks, and boat shoes by the sea.

Jewellery – The Salt and Pepper of Style

Jewellery is where personality meets etiquette. According to Galateo, Italy’s guide to classic elegance, you should not wear more than three pieces at once – for example earrings, a necklace, and a ring. Too many rings risk the “pirate effect.”

• Skin tone matters: gold for warm undertones, silver for cool.
• Necklines matter: short necklaces suit V-necks, while long chains balance round necklines and elongate the bust.
• Face shape matters: long earrings flatter round faces; round earrings soften long faces. Hair length also influences the choice.

When fabrics are rich (like velvet or brocade), jewellery should be delicate. For everyday fabrics, bolder pieces can shine. Italians favour pearls (in minimalist, modern styles), Murano glass, and precious stones such as emeralds, rubies, or sapphires.

Above all: simplicity. Let one statement piece lead while the others stay subtle.

Sunglasses

No Italian outfit is complete without sunglasses. Worn by men and women of all ages, they are less about the sun than about attitude – a symbol of mystery and coolness.

Scarves and Ties

Italian women adore silk foulards – knotted at the neck, tied to a bag, or draped casually. Men, meanwhile, embrace silk ties and ascots, elevating everyday looks with understated luxury.

Watches

Despite smartphones, the watch remains essential in Italy. It need not be a luxury brand, but it should be timeless and well-chosen. As one Italian campaign put it: “Take everything away from me, but not my watch.”

Bags for Men

Italian men prefer structure and sophistication: briefcases (Cambridge style), messenger bags, or weekenders. Backpacks and bum bags (marsupio) are usually avoided except for travel.

Perfume and Presence

Accessories extend beyond the material. Italians know that perfume is a silent signature – as important as a scarf or a watch. And perhaps the most powerful “accessories” of all are posture, grace, and composure. A straight back, an elegant stride, and a calm voice complete the look more than any object ever could.

The Italian Secret: Semplice ma bello

The golden rule of Italian accessorising is simplicity. As the saying goes: “Semplice ma bello” – simple but beautiful. Elegance lies not in excess, but in balance.

Which Italian accessory rule speaks most to your style – the all-black total look, the statement necklace, or the ever-present sunglasses? Share your thoughts below.