Dolce far Niente: The Simple Sweetness of Doing Nothing

Have you ever heard the Italian saying Dolce far Niente? It means, “the sweetness of doing nothing.” Embracing being completely in the moment and enjoying being idle. An Italian art that has nothing to do with being lazy and everything to do with enjoying the simple pleasures in life.

Dolce far Niente

Summer and Dolce far Niente

I was reading Vogue at the beach and thinking how perfect the moment was. Ocean waves, a soft breeze, warm sand, and the sun all combined with the beginning of summer break. It all felt so good but then thoughts of things I could (or should) be doing crept in.

This reminded me of the Italian saying: Dolce far Niente. It’s something the Italians apparently excel at but can be hard to settle into. It translates as “the sweetness of doing nothing” and refers to enjoying being idle. I think everyone can enjoy being idle we just don’t often get the opportunity. So my summer challenge is to notice when I’m enjoying the moment and push aside any thoughts of what I “should” be doing. If I want to stop and take pictures of a tree, then I’m going to stop. I want to stay in Dolce far Niente for as long as I can. The Italians aren’t the only ones who can master this art.

I’m wearing LoveShackFancy in the photograph and attached all my favorites from their summer 2022 swim line below. Click the pictures to shop my affiliate links.

Dolce far Niente

Beach or Pool?

Oh the dilemma! But, part of embracing Dolce far Niente is not feeling guilt about that idle life. I’ve totally got that one under control as it’s summer break so with a clear conscious I headed for the pool in this cute look from Tara Grinna. Check out my post Beach Music and Boardwalks: The Best Puff Sleeve Summer Dresses for some cute coverup ideas. I attached the swimsuit, hat scarf, pink Starbucks cup, and my favorite shade of Essie nail polish below. Click the pictures to shop my affiliate links.

Dolce far Niente

Summer Sips

The true essence of Dolce far Niente can be found on the coasts of Italy sipping an Aperol spritz. I’m subbing with the Atlantic breeze and lemon seltzers. I know your wondering about these glasses. Have you ever seen something and immediately knew you had to have it? That’s what happened with me and this purple coupe glass. It was love at first sight; a true fairy tale. They are Estelle Colored Glass and one of my favorite obsessions. You can visit her website here or click the pictures below to shop my affiliate links.

Dolce far Niente

Thanks so much for stopping by! What are your thoughts on Dolce far Niente? Is it something you find easy to indulge in or do you have to work yourself into it? Share your thoughts below in the comments and check out my little shop for more cute summer looks!

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6 Comments

  1. June 12, 2022 / 3:21 pm

    Love the Italian culture – especially this expression and the “chill” vibe. I do love those glasses – so pretty! Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!

    • ElizabethRyanSC
      Author
      June 12, 2022 / 3:35 pm

      Thanks so much Jodie!! Have a wonderful weekend too!!✨

  2. Charity
    June 12, 2022 / 9:16 pm

    I love the idea of doing nothing! Were about to leave on vacation too and that’s all I plan on doing for the week! I think it’s definitely necessary to do from time to time!

    • ElizabethRyanSC
      Author
      June 12, 2022 / 10:36 pm

      Thanks so much for stopping by! Have so much fun on your vacation!!✨

  3. June 18, 2022 / 1:07 pm

    Such a good suggestion, do nothing! And loving the colours here!

    • ElizabethRyanSC
      Author
      June 19, 2022 / 1:52 pm

      Thanks so much!! Summer is the perfect time to relax!✨

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