As soon as I step off the boat from Naples and rise towards Capri’s charming Piazzetta on the funicular I feel like I am home. I have had a love affair with this beautiful island for over ten years – there is just nowhere like it. From waking up to bird song to being surrounded by breath-taking scenery, all white washed villas, lush greenery and vibrant pink Bougainvillea, it’s truly an idyll, and topped off with all the wonderful Campanian food, culture and fun we know and love, it’s truly a slice of heaven.
When it comes to serving looks, Capri packs a sartorial punch! Whether you’re a 40-something city minimalist like me, or a creative Gen Z, Capri brings out the style.
Make sure you pack your favourite pieces for strolling along Via Camerelle, or having an aperitivo in Piazza Umberto 1, once referred to as the "salotto del mondo" (the world's living room) but that the rest of the world knows simply as "the Piazzetta". Capri is a place to have fun, so don’t hold back.
Living in Barcelona, my day-to-day wardrobe consists of cool monochromatic separates and androgynous oversized silhouettes, so Capri is my place to let loose. I don’t ditch my style completely of course, but there’s always room to bring out your more playful side, and this is the perfect place to do it.
I've put together a packing list of summer must-have's for day and evening looks when touring Capri, enjoying la Dolce Vita.
WHAT TO PACK | DAY
Whether you’re laying by the pool or lounging at the beach club, you’ll need some a couple of beachwear looks, a cover up, a stylish beach tote, and most importantly, comfortable sandals or slides. Capri is mostly pedestrian, so leave the cute but impractical shoes at home.
Classic Italian brands like Missoni or Pucci will always be on trend here, a pretty bikini and colourful kaftan will take you from pool to lunch with ease. This year however I noticed the trend was less classically beachy and more structured for day, and very much head to toe “cool” designer. I’m talking full Prada or Dior looks, hat, bikini, shorts, shirt and slides, and tote. If that’s not in your budget, you can take inspiration from the more modern, masculine vibes with head to toe print or smart tailored silhouette, and look to more affordable brands.
CAPSULE: Old-School Beach Club
You can wear an ultra-modern city look anywhere but Capri is one of the places you can let your hair down and be a little camp! So I went full 70s glam for this one. Very Slim Aaron’s vision of Capri:
Kaftan by Emilio Pucci, Green high waisted bikini by Eres, Green oversized sunglasses by Gucci, Beach tote by Fendi, sandals by Bottega Capri.
CAPSULE: Sightseeing & Style
A sightseeing outfit is also essential. There are so many pretty places to see on the island. You won’t feel comfortable stepping inside a church or museum in your beach kaftan, so bring a lightweight dress or some tailored shorts for something chic and comfortable. Pretty prints and smart shorts are perfect for getting out and about.
Top, shorts and hat by Yam Capri, white sunglasses by Loewe, Large Capri book tote, by Dior, sandals by Bottega Capri.
WHAT TO PACK | NIGHT
Now evening is where you have the opportunity to really live out your Dolce Vita fantasy! There is nothing better than an aperitivo as the sun goes down, and a delicious dinner al fresco. Whether you’re dining among the lemon trees or in a bustling island hot spot, you can’t go wrong with a pretty dress and some fun accessories. Anything goes as long as you feel fabulous!
Again though, stay away from the stilettos. Walking on cobbled, uneven paths is a nightmare for heels. There’s nothing quite so awkward as seeing people tottering around uncomfortably. I also love a flat sandal to help ground an outfit, to make it feel less formal and rigid. Get yourself a pair of flat Capri sandals and you’ll be skipping along the cobbles carefree, gelato in hand!
CAPSULE: When The Sun Goes Down.
A light, black, dress from Uterque. Comfortable, well made and affordable, this is already a part of my wardrobe.
Earrings by Yam Capri, Sandals by Bottega Capri, Bag is by Laboratorio Capri.which I also own and absolutely love
Local Shopping
THE AREA
Luxury stores can be found on Via Camerelle. This is where you’ll find Hermes, Chanel, Dior and the like. While very pretty, these stores mostly sell the same merchandise all over the world, but you may find some Capri exclusives, like engraved bags or accessories like this baby blue Capri Edition by Louis Vuitton.
THE STORES
Luxury stores are gorgeous of course, but I always prefer to shop locally. Whenever I buy something unique from a local store I really treasure these pieces and love to use them at home to remind me of all our wonderful trips.
There are lots of gems to be found on the little back streets around the Piazzetta. These little streets are shopping gold. You’ll find small, local boutiques, with unique and more affordable pieces then the multinational luxury stores found on Via Camerelle.
LABORATORIO CAPRI. This stunning boutique is just round the corner from Via Camerelle. Owner Michele designs the collection, and his family produces it. The clothes are exquisitely made with a couture feel, in striking patterns inspired by this island. The bags and shoes are hand made by Italian artisans
YAM CAPRI. A lovely little small shop packed full of pretty lace dresses, beautiful beach cover ups, fun, quirky t-shirts, and striking jewelery - not to be missed!
BOTTEGA CAPRI. Designing your own Capri sandals is a must-do while on the island. Ever since Jackie Onassis was seen out and about wearing her chic flat Capri sandals in the 1970s, they have been the only footwear of choice. This shop has a great modern take on the traditional style.
Don’t Forget About...
Some chic nightwear. A classic set of Pjs while sipping your morning espresso on the balcony really starts the day off right.
A Gym kit. The best way to see Capri is by foot, so bring some good trainers and start your day with a hike.
Now get out and enjoy the last days of summer on the island of Capri in Italy. It won’t be hard to do in such a beautiful and magical place, where you can dress just how you feel.
Pamela McKillop, Stylepop
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