Indossare vs. portare
The Italian verbs 'indossare' and 'portare' both mean 'to wear' in English, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Indossare
'Indossare' specifically refers to putting on or wearing clothing items. It emphasizes the act of wearing something on one's body.
Oggi indosso una camicia blu.
(Today I'm wearing a blue shirt.)
Lei indossa sempre gioielli eleganti.
(She always wears elegant jewelry.)
Per la festa, indosserò un abito nuovo.
(For the party, I'll wear a new dress.)
Portare
'Portare' has a broader meaning of carrying or bearing, but can also mean 'to wear' in certain contexts. It's often used for accessories or items not directly worn on the body.
Porto gli occhiali da vista.
(I wear glasses.)
Mia nonna porta sempre una sciarpa.
(My grandmother always wears a scarf.)
Lui porta un orologio d'oro al polso.
(He wears a gold watch on his wrist.)
Summary
While both 'indossare' and 'portare' can mean 'to wear', 'indossare' is more specific to clothing and items worn directly on the body, while 'portare' is more versatile and often used for accessories or items carried on the person. 'Indossare' emphasizes the act of putting on and wearing, while 'portare' can imply carrying or bearing in addition to wearing.