Some 'interesting' views on Italy in this thread.
Maybe it's an American thing, but it isn't held in such high regard in the UK..
As for them wearing less clothes as warmer, maybe in the far South (which is economically poor compared to north), but the further up you go, the seasons are very similar to central Europe and even UK. Rains, cold and bit of snow from October through till Easter. So they certainly aren't walking around half naked or enjoying perfect climates mostvthe year.
As a generalisan Italians do seem to have this unique confident, attractive way of holding themselves, but having spent time there, they also have their fair share of greasy, slimey, unattractive slobs and murky underclass.
And its far from a case of them living in beautiful surroundings. most live in sh1tty worn down areas/apartments in inner cities. Vast majority certainly arent sipping fine wines, wearing pretty dresses from a patio, surrounded by beautiful countryside all year round. Those are the kind of places tourists travel to and pay highly for. In the same way you'd pay highly to stay at the most scenic areas in the UK.