Episode 3: Florence in fashion
Florence is fast becoming my favorite Italian city. So much so that I am for sure coming back and with an agenda. Today, Florentine fashion takes center stage and really with all the famous designers that Florence has birthed this is a haven for taste and style. Think about it. Pucci, Ferragamo, Patrizia Pepe, Stefano Ricci, Gucci, the Fashion Museums of Florence (including but not limited to the Ferragamo Museum and the Gucci Garden), are a discovery of the history of some of the most famous brands, textiles, and costumes, and the stunning buildings in which they evolved. Like I said next time… I’m going back with an agenda! My plan for Mr. M is to bring a bag of snacks and plan plenty of stops with fans and places to sit.
First things first, what was I going to wear for the day? The temperatures were sky high so dressing appropriately and comfortably is a must. Today’s look is simple, black linen shorts by Maison Maiki and a short-sleeved blouson white linen shirt by Zara (I know… sometimes I succumb for basics) find similar here and here. The star of this simple ensemble was undoubtedly the espadrille wedge sandals in black (which I got on super sale). These sensible but very “in” shoe, took me (first wear) through 25,000+ steps, up and down stairs and “off road” with ease and in style.
Palazzo Pitti was our day excursion which contained a stunning collection of Medici works and figured prominently in Napolean’s stay in Florence. The eye must rest after the miles of richly hued frescos and epic paintings the Museum of Costume and Fashion was a welcome break. The exhibit was a virtual stroll through predominately women’s fashion ripped from the very paintings that we just viewed. The magnificent detail and execution of the exhibit was a treat - goodness I wish I could have examined each garment further, like with white gloves and an N-40 mask. Take for instance the1836 three-piece ivory silk satin ceremonial wedding gown embroidered with open peony and tiny daisy motifs featured at as the cove image of this post. The gigot sleeves are in my opinion a design poem. Who came up with this? Why aren’t we this meticulous today? I was left to revel in fashion history carefully reading each plaque while Mr. M. found a bench strategically positioned in front of a mobile air-condition while I took my time strolling through the ages of couture from the burial clothes of the Medicis to 1980’s glamour of Gianfranco Ferré that reminded me of my pre-school love of Dynasty (aside: I think going to do an entire post on Dynasty fashion). If you are interested in the entire exhibition view all of the artworks and take a virtual stroll through the founders of Florentine couture here.
After absorbing all that sumptuous style, I was primed for a little shopping on the streets of Florence. Forget the well-known and famous designers. I was looking for something unique, poignant and evocative of this beautiful first experience. I assure you, there was nor will there ever be wild shopping sprees while abroad. I have refined my travel shopping technique over the years and never make big ticket, big bulk purchases while on the road. Rather, I plan the ideas of my purchases well in advance and limit those purchases to things that the location is specifically known for and will evoke some sense of the place for years to come. Say it out loud and with me “No nick-nacks aloud”. Think, fragrance or accessories - which is exactly what I purchased in Florence.
I got super lucky to stumble into a truly unique couture connection when meeting the Florentine milliner, Elenora Bruno in her jewel box of a shop Ely B. Hats. I purchased a unique head piece (only two of its kind) which I will rave about in a separate post devoted to the gifted milliner and all things hats. I will, however, tease you with this light descriptor. Its pink and there are pearls involved!
After, shopping and talking with Eleanora for a while, I went to collect Mr. M. who by this time had taken up residence in a handily placed stone portico across the way, and promised to a sit in the shadow of the Duomo as it was aperitif hour and discuss our next adventure which would be more his speed (or would it)?
Next time on “Florence” … We leave the city and head for adventure in the Tuscan countryside with… Australians. Olive oil experts are created not born and Tuscan braised red onions may appear at every meal Florence has from this day forth. Every. Meal.
