Fendi, Prada, Gucci, Versace, Valentino… the list of famous Italian fashion brands is almost endless.
Home to one of the major four fashion hubs, the Italian city of Milan is a powerhouse of luxury goods, producing some of the world’s best known brands with a speciality in leather. So, it only makes sense that Italian women are some of the best dressed on the planet.
A quick look at what street style stars are opting for during Milan Fashion Week says it all.
For Italian women, they love tailoring, a statement coat, a logo bag, and of course, a dose of colour. They aren’t afraid to stand out and experiment, and there’s no holding back a Roman woman from her designer stores. A quick walk around most Italian cities confirms it—the streets are packed with Prada and Gucci-clad locals.
So, if you’re ready to channel your inner Mediterranean, there are ways that you can dress like an Italian woman herself. Scroll down for our top tips for mastering the fashion makeover.
Don’t hold back!
One of the most famous Italian editors, Anna Dello Russo, is known for her take-no-prisoners approach to dressing. Whether it’s a couture ball gown or a pair of Saint Laurent diamond boots, Dello Russo embodies a more-is-more approach and is a great starting point for inspiration.
Go local.
No shade to Paris, but Milan is where fashion really, well, happens. Italian women don’t hold back when dressing and their runways reflect it. Brands like Prada, Miu Miu, Moschino, Gucci, Etro and Versace are loved for their OTT approach to dressing, while the likes of Emporio Armani, Valentino, Fendi and Max Mara target a more refined audience, known and heralded for their approach to high-quality fabrics and timeless design.
Flatter your body
Italian women love to show off their bodies, but that doesn’t always mean by having less clothing. Go The Italian Way and opt for outfits that flatter your figure, no matter your body shape.
Invest!
Italian women know that a few great pieces are worth a thousand cheap knock offs. Lovers of luxury, Italians dress to impress, so choose rich fabrics and luxe cuts to ensure you look the part.
A designer bag is a must.
Walk down a street in Italy and try not to spot a designer bag. It’s near impossible. The Italians love labels, so the perfect everyday bag is always an investment piece. Calculate the cost-per-wear and budget for years to come—trust us, the original price won’t be much when you think about how far that bag will get you.
Sunglasses are a non-negotiable.
Italians are famous for their glamorous attitude, so a pair of diva sunglasses are a must. Whether yours are oversized (Gucci, of course) or just perfect for blocking out the sun, do as the Italians do and pair yours with an aperitif and a (faux) tan.
So, take the lessons you’ve learned and arrivederci, bella!
