- BY ISSIMO
- September 22, 2023
When it comes to style, Italian women have an uncanny ability to make everything look effortlessly chic. Their secret? A fusion of timeless elegance and a dash of nonchalant flair.
Just look at the ladies strutting the streets of Milan during Fashion Week – or, well, any other week of the year, really. Blending classic garbs with statement pieces, prints with monochromatic colours, Italian women channel la bella figura like it’s the easiest thing to do, looking the part rain or shine.
If you’ve ever dreamed of replicating that same panache, here’s your guide to dressing like a signora during fashion’s busiest month.
Coats: Elegance Wrapped in Warmth
Italian women understand the transformative power of a well-tailored coat. Forget piling on layers; they believe that outerwear should make a statement on its own. Which is why they often opt for a classic wool or cashmere coat in neutral shades like camel, grey, yellow or black – Max Mara 10181 Light Jersey Coat being a perfect case in point. And so should you: This is your sartorial canvas, so invest wisely.
STYLING TIP: Drape your coat over your shoulders with an air of nonchalance. This "I just threw it on" look is key to Italian chicness.
Bags: It's All About the 'It' Bag
An Italian woman’s bag isn’t just for carrying essentials; it’s a statement piece. Invest in a high-quality leather bag in a classic silhouette, like a structured tote from Metier and Officina del Poggio, or go bold and quirky with an attention-grabbing number like the ISSIMO x Tanner Krolle Annabelle Vanity Bag or the Gatti Tweety Canary Bag.
Bonus points if it’s a designer piece but remember: Understated elegance is key.
STYLING TIP: Carry it with the top handles, not slung over your shoulder. It's a power move.
Accessories: The Devil's in the Details
Italian women don’t merely accessorise; they curate. Start with statement sunglasses – oversized, glamorous, and mysterious, like our ISSIMO x L.G.R ones – and always use the mantra ‘less is more’ when leaving the house. Scarves are another must-have; tie one around your neck, wrist, or purse for a pop of colour – may we suggest the ISSIMO x Les Belles Heures La Posta Vecchia Scarf? –or drape yourself in a cosy shawl for extra snugness, like the ISSIMO x Faliero Sarti.
STYLING TIP: Don't be afraid to mix patterns and textures. A leopard print scarf paired with a houndstooth coat? ChicISSIMO!
Shoes: Where Comfort Meets Style
Italian women understand the importance of comfort, but never at the expense of style. Opt for a pair of leather ankle boots with a modest heel – perfect for cobblestone streets. Sneakers are also acceptable, but they should be sleek and minimalist, like the timeless Superga.
STYLING TIP: Let your ankles peek out between the boots and your pants – it's a subtle and chic touch.
Dresses: Easy Does It
Let your dress be your canvas for sartorial storytelling. Choose a dress with subtle details, like a ruffled collar or cinched waist to add a touch of intrigue, or dazzle with prints, even better if from the iconic Loretta Caponi brand. Pair it with ankle boots for that Milanese edge, and you’re good to go.
STYLING TIP: Finish the look with a statement belt to define your silhouette, and don’t forget a confident stride. In Italy’s fashion capital you're not just wearing a dress; you're telling a Milanese tale, and it's going to be absolutely chic.
Putting It All Together
Now that you have the essentials, let’s bring it all together with a dose of Italian sprezzatura (effortless style).
- The All-Black Ensemble: Italians have perfected the art of dressing head-to-toe in black. Pair black trousers with a black turtleneck, add a black leather belt, and throw on your camel coat. Accessorise with a red lip and oversized sunglasses.
- The Menswear-Inspired Look: Embrace masculine elements, like tailored blazers and wide-leg trousers – Giuliva Heritage nails it on both counts. Add a feminine touch with a silk scarf tied at the neck and a structured leather bag.
- The Print-Clashing Pro: Italian women aren’t afraid to mix prints. Pair a leopard print blouse from ISSIMO x Alberto Biani with chequered trousers and a stripey scarf. Keep the rest of your outfit in solid colours to balance the bold patterns.
- The Effortless Maxi Dress: For a more relaxed look, opt for a flowing maxi dress in a bold print. Add a leather belt to cinch the waist, slip into ankle boots, and throw on your statement coat.
- The Denim Diva: Italians can make jeans look sophisticated. Choose a high-quality pair with a straight-leg or wide-leg cut. Tuck in a silk blouse, add a colourful scarf, and top it off with a tailored blazer.
Final Words of Wisdom
Dressing like an Italian woman for Fashion Week is not just about following trends; it’s about creating your own signature style that exudes confidence and effortless charm. Remember, it’s not about perfection – it’s about embracing your uniqueness and having fun with fashion.
So, channel your inner Italian fashionista, mix and match with abandon, and always wear your outfit with an air of “I woke up like this” confidence. After all, the true secret of Italian style is that it’s not what dress you wear; it’s about how you wear it. La moda è arte – fashion is art, and you are the canvas
