A traveler's recent demonstration of how to adapt clothing for church visits in Italy has ignited a debate online regarding tourist etiquette and respect for local customs. The TikTok video, which has garnered over 774,000 views, shows a traveler layering a long skirt over a shorter dress and adding a scarf to cover her shoulders before entering a church.
Many religious sites in Italy, particularly churches, have dress codes that require visitors to cover their shoulders and wear clothing extending below the knees. Failure to comply can result in denial of entry. This rule presents a challenge for tourists, especially during warmer months when lightweight, sleeveless clothing is common.
Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert, emphasized the importance of researching and adhering to local customs. "When it comes to visiting sacred places, either in our country or in another country, dressing respectfully and knowing the rules is an important leadership skill," Gottsman told Fox News Digital. "The key is to know the rules in advance, which takes some investigation." She added that adapting an outfit to meet local standards is a "gesture of kindness, thoughtfulness, decorum and goodwill."
The traveler's method received praise from many online commenters who saw it as a simple and respectful way to navigate dress codes. "It is that simple to be respectful," one user wrote. Others shared similar strategies they have employed for years, such as carrying scarves or wearing skirts that can be easily layered over shorts when visiting religious sites.
However, the approach also drew criticism. Some viewers questioned why travelers should need to change their outfits, while others suggested that visitors should opt for more conservative attire from the start. "You can dress modestly to begin with and still look cute," one commenter stated. Another expressed confusion, asking, "God only had eyes in churches?"
Supporters of the layering technique argued that it is a small but significant way to show respect for cultural and religious norms. "Thank you for your respect to other cultures and religions," one commenter wrote. Another noted that adhering to the dress code, even with a quick modification, prevents potential offense to others.
Travelers in Italy during peak season may also encounter street vendors selling scarves, who often explain the necessity of covering up to tourists unaware of the dress requirements.