Italy-Clothes and what to bring

Judith, it would surprise me if you would have much use for sandals in April (except maybe flip flops for shared showers). And just bring clothes in which you are comfortable. A pair of nice black pants will take you out, with a somewhat dressy top (or one of the 5-10 E shawls, which you can buy from a street vendor). Don't worry about how Italians dress; they'll know you're a tourist no matter what. Also, I've never noticed they dress more formally than in US cities (including Seattle)... In my impression, their attire seems as variable as what I see in the US.

Here you go! http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/italy-in-april.html http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/what-to-pack-for-italy-spring-autumn.html

April may not be that warm (beginning or end of April?), therefore don't pack shorts (or no more than one pair for hiking in the Cinque Terre). Rely on dresses, skirts and long pants. They can be easily passed for less informal clothes. Long cotton pants work well (avoid blue jeans, that can never be passed for formal clothes). Tennis shoes can't be passed for formal, but you'll need something to hike at the Cinque Terre. Sandals or shoes that are comfortable for walking but not excessively informal (like running shoes) will work for the city.
Italians dress "smart casual" in most occasions, it's not that they are on a tuxedo. Just avoid wearing your gym clothes straight out of your dirty laundry hamper and you'll be better dressed than 80% of American tourists there.

One word: scarves. If you don't use them now, buy some there. You can find inexpensive ones, but everyone wears them. Also,if it starts to rain, umbrella vendors appear as if magic and a few years ago they cost 5E. I would suggest flats (ballet style) rather than wedges, if you have that option. they pack flatter and weigh less. There's less chance of turning an ankle.

You cannot pack to dress like the Italians. Think about a black or grey skirt, black or grey dress and some scarves. You will need a rain jacket with a hood. I don't travel with tennis shoes, but do pack some stylish Puma shoes (not tennis, but rather, "walking") I always bring sandals, but we usually travel in May, so it's warmer. Don't think you really need a wedge heeled shoes. Use that space in your carry on for more t-shirt tops. 2 pairs of shoes are enough, wear the more bulky pair on the plane. 1-2 pairs of pants ....wear one pair on the plane. I do take jeans with me now, I find I wear them about everyday at home, and I want to wear them when I travel. I was really happy I had my jeans for our trip in Italy last September, it was COLD, and I was happy to be warmer in my jeans. Bring a nice lightweight button up sweater, or two. I like the "Jackie" sweater from JCrew. Nice colors and cotton, great for a layering piece. Make sure to pack some long sleeve t-shirts. Maybe something with a stripe or a nice solid. With pants, skirt, tops, sweater and some scarves, you have more than enough for 2 weeks of travel. Just put everything out on the bed and make sure you can mix and match with no "left over" pieces and you'll be fine. Sweatshirt type tops are just too bulky, but if you can find a nice top in Merino Wool, that would be ideal for cooler nights. Icebreaker, Ibex and Smartwool all have nice pieces. You might find some good travel clothing at REI right now as they move from winter to summer goods. There are H & M stores in Rome and Florence, and Zara too, so if you find you didn't bring enough clothing, do a quick shopping trip there and fill in at a good price.