A traveler’s church-appropriate outfit hack has viewers weighing in on how far tourists should go to respect local customs abroad.A TikTok video with over 774,000 views to date shows the traveler slipping a long skirt over a shorter dress and wrapping a scarf around her bare shoulders before entering a church in Italy — allowing her to meet common dress requirements without changing her entire outfit.Many churches across Italy ask visitors to cover their shoulders and wear clothing that extends below the knees as a sign of respect.Guests who do not meet the dress code may be denied entry.TAMPA AIRPORT ISSUES PAJAMA BAN, TRIGGERING SOCIAL MEDIA FIRESTORM OVER DRESS CODE CONTROVERSYDiane Gottsman, an etiquette expert based in Texas, told Fox News Digital that understanding local customs is an important part of being a respectful traveler."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 said.A traveler (not pictured) has fueled online debate after choosing to dress modestly before visiting churches in Italy, raising questions about whether tourists should honor local customs.
(Eliano Imperato/Anadolu via Getty Images)"The key is to know the rules in advance, which takes some investigation."Travelers should research cultural expectations before arriving at their destination, she said, noting that customs can vary from dress standards to tipping practices."Changing or adding layers of clothing to respect local customs is a gesture of kindness, thoughtfulness, decorum and goodwill," she said."Bottom line is to respect the dress code policy."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERThe video prompted some energetic discussions among viewers, highlighting a common challenge for tourists visiting Italy during the summer months."Thank you for your respect to other cultures and religions."Many travelers opt for lightweight, sleeveless clo...