Roman Holiday

Every summer calls for a little getaway. Whether it’s somewhere outdoors like the beach or lake, or to a new place all together, a bit of exploration is just what the season calls for. Though this summer’s travel season might be nearing its end and be bit different than normal, that doesn’t mean we can’t do some dreaming. 

With this in mind, the perfect inspiration can be found with the help of Audrey Hepburn, The Talented Mr. Ripley and Dolce & Gabbana. 

The classic 1953 film Roman Holiday offers a storyline to inspire your own escape for a “giddy holiday.” Trapped in a life path out of her control, Princess Ann seeks an adventure of her own choosing in Rome. 

From one night at a glittering ball, to the next traveling the streets of Rome with an unknown American newsman, it’s the “happy romantic adventure” not to be missed. With a new hairstyle, outfit, ice cream cone and handsome gentleman on a scooter, Princess Ann goes out on the town to discover all the city has to offer. 

Set in the same time period of 1950s Italy, The Talented Mr. Ripley offers additional style and wanderlust inspiration to keep your dream of Italy alive. Sparkling beaches, delicious fresh markets and music filled nights abound in the story of Tom Ripley creeping into the lives of Dickie and Marge. 

The clothes worn by Gwyneth Paltrow’s character, Marge, include feminine flats, full skirts and breezy button downs, much like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. With the backdrop of coastal villages like Positano and nearby islands of Naples boasting their idyllic ocean scenery, it’s hard not to dream of your own Italian getaway to the Amalfi Coast.  

The high-waisted bathing suit is much like the style worn by Marge in The Talented Mr. Ripley

As an Italian brand, Dolce & Gabbana often offers a dash of Italian flair and history in its collections. With styles that include the high waisted bathing suit and dresses with full skirts and fitted waists, the designs evoke the spirit of a summer vacation in Italy. 

The full skirted dress has a button down top and fitted waist with easy flats for walking around an Italian coastal village market.

To get the look of Princess Ann and Marge, look for dresses or skirts with a fitted waist and full volume that reach the calf or ankle. Tops can be button downs with or without the collar to mimic those worn by the two starlets. Shoes of choice for a 1950s Italian inspired look? Espadrilles or gladiator sandals. And don’t forget the finishing touch of a neck scarf. 

Whether you’re jetting off to an exotic destination or staying home, you can channel the spirit of Italy with just a few key style choices. Here’s to your own vacanza romana!

Runway Images: Photographed by Yannis Viamos for Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2016 via Vogue.com

Images of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday from the Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons