Ciao Bella

If you are Italian, your life revolves around the simple concept of, "La Bella Figura". Literally translated as "beautiful figure", it means making a good impression in every sense of the matter.
To make a good impression is something that is important to everyone, but Italians might do so better than anyone else.

Whether it's taking that extra ten minutes to make sure your hair is just right, or choosing to walk in heels strategically through the cobblestone streets; looking good and feeling good, go hand in hand.
Obviously it is not just women that this concept applies to. From old Italian men to young Italian guys, they are constantly staying up to date with the latest trends and styles.

Even if it is one of the hottest days of summer, you will find most Italian men wearing pants and layers. You might see them and think they are crazy, but chances are they look better than you and probably aren't even sweating as much.
Nothing disappoints me more than being able to spot an American in the streets of Italy, just because of what they are wearing. I understand if you are "Proud to be an American", but when I see someone wearing sweatpants, flip-flops, and an old T-shirt, I can't help but feel mildly embarrassed for them. Watching Italians strut by you, with their head held high and secretly thinking "stereotypical American."
It's really not too much to ask, to at least try and blend in. Hell, just go to the closest H&M, spend about 50 Euro, and you'll be set.

It's easy to just think that "La Bella Figura" applies to fashion and being well-groomed, but the idea of the beautiful figure is so much more than that.

Italians strive to make a good impression in every way possible, and make sure that everything in Italy portrays that. From random acts of kindness to the artful decor of pastries in cafe windows, Italy is full of beautiful people and beautiful things. The countless artisans and craftsmen with their specialty brand products, convey the famous "Made in Italy" reputation we all know and love.

There is a reason that Italy is so beautiful, and it's because of the Italians undeniable attention to detail. The architecture, the food, the fashion, the art; it's difficult to find anything to complain about in this Mediterranean paradise.

Italians will do everything in their power though, to avoid the dreaded "La Brutta Figura".
Yes, you are correct in assuming that this means "ugly figure". Reflecting poorly on one's 'famiglia' is practically a crime in Italy. If you are having a bad day, your appearance should never give that impression.
 Nobody likes making a mistake, but Italians will go out of their way to make sure that a mistake is not made. You might attempt to ask for directions from an Italian on the street, who in truth probably knows a decent amount of English, but will not speak it in fear of making a mistake.

Making a good impression is of the utmost importance to Italians, and they will continue to carry out the tradition, in style, for many years to come.