Italian fashion gained influence and popularity among powerful families across Europe during the Renaissance of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The Renaissance originated in Italy and marked a transition from the Middle Ages to the modern period in Europe. Italian fashion during this era took pride in being extravagant and expensive, but then declined in the seventeenth century when French fashion became more popular.
Italy was united as a single country in 1861 and the influences of culture, art, history, and fashion contributed towards the building of a united national identity. The Italian fashion scene was influenced by modern designers such as Prada in 1913, Gucci in 1921, Armani in 1975, Versace in 1978, and Dolce & Gabbana in 1985. These high status brands became popular among those who could afford them, especially celebrities, but they also influenced Italian style in general. After the Second World War, Italian style regained worldwide popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, and Milan become recognised as an international fashion capital.
For a generalised comparison, whereas French women aim to look effortlessly elegant, Italian women embrace a more dramatic glamour. The Italian style of bella figura is glamorous, subtly sensual, confident, classy, and yet slightly edgy as well.
‘What is the fatal charm of Italy? What do we find there that can be found nowhere else? I believe it is a certain permission to be human, which other places, other countries, lost long ago.’
Erica Jong
Italian women take pride in standing out and put effort into looking good. They make sure their outfits are well put together and groomed, with good quality fabrics and design. They tend to wear clothes that are well-fitting and tailored enough emphasise their curves, but without being too tight or having too much bling. Stylish Italian women stay classy yet subtly sensual by balancing their outfits to not show too much skin. Some parts of Italy can be quite traditional and it tends to be more conservative than other cultures, such as America for example.
Italian women tend to be stylish yet understated in their approach, often with just one statement piece in outfit. More subdued, darker colours (such as black) are popular in Milan and the north of Italy, whereas bolder, brighter colours (such as a bright red jacket) tend to be worn in southern Italy. A good general guide is to wear complementary colours then add a pop of a brighter colour to the outfit.
Accessories are generally popular amongst Italian women, with a pair of stylish sunglasses being a bonus. They choose smart, often coordinating, shoes and handbags to bring their outfit together. Quality leather shoes, sandals, or boots are the most common go-to choice depending on time of year. Comfort is also very important in Italian women’s choice of shoes because Italy is filled with beautiful, old, cobbled streets and they don’t want to twist an ankle!
In autumn and winter, the Italians keep warm and combine different textures with multiple layers and long scarves. Leather jackets, long elegant coats, or faux fur are also frequently seen, and Italian women tend to choose coloured trousers rather than always wearing blue jeans.
Perhaps the key to the stereotypical Italian style is its attitude of confidence. Italian women dress with drama, flair, class, exuberance, and confidence in their own bodies and femininity. They enjoy statement pieces and glamour, yet tend to be more traditional in sticking to what they know works rather than being the first to make all the creative risks.
If you want to dress like an Italian woman or blend in like a local whilst visiting Italy, three words to bear in mind are: glamorous, classy, flair.
Feminine Finishing School 