Linen, Neutrals and Boho Staples: An Italian Lookbook
Italy is at the heart of fashion. From Milan to Florence, there is an abundance of beautiful locations that beg for elegant, luxurious fits. Read on to see how I styled my wardrobe, ready to step out into the gorgeous Italian landscape.
And just like that, summer fades from view. In its place, autumn has welcomed us with auburn tones, pops of burgundy, and fur trims. But, before we dive head-first into cosy jacket season, it’s only fair to wrap up this season with a summer lookbook. Italy edition.
Recently, I had the pleasure of taking a mid-September trip to the beautiful Italian landscape (see more here). From Lake Como to Milan, Florence to Pisa, I visited various beautiful locations that begged for elegant, luxurious fits.
I was truly in my element, having always been enamoured with Italian culture and fashion. Simple. Elegant. Glamorous. It’s the art of looking polished yet laid-back, as if you’ve rolled out of bed looking fabulous. This is not only for vanity either. It's a symbol of hospitality, politeness, and respect. Whether it's a trip to the shop or a catchup with friends, chic and timeless is the dress code for any occasion.
As a fashion fanatic, it was a dream to be situated in the centre of the fashion capital itself, Milan. Like a kid in a candy shop, I was in awe of designer boutiques and stylish passers-by. The expression la bella figura (literally translating to "the beautiful figure", meaning to make a good impression) is an Italian philosophy that‘s evident in each corner of this beautiful country.
Lake Como was a feast for the eyes, and almost came with its own unspoken dress code. Flowing white linen, long neutral dresses, pops of red, and elegant waistcoat two-pieces. I felt as though I was on a Mediterranean catwalk as I fell into step with gorgeously-dressed onlookers. In a way, it would seem impolite to mirror this other-worldly scenery with anything but a classic outfit.
To look good is to feel good, they say. This, I’ve found to be true.
An Italian Lookbook
Linen
Linen is a classic piece for sunny weather. Light, breathable, and stunningly chic, linen is an effortless addition to your wardrobe. Culottes, waistcoats, shirts and skirts - there is an array of linen pieces that can elevate your outfit.
It's such a simple material and yet can look so expensive, especially with a neutral colour palette. Pair with some sleek sunnies and bold jewellery, and you are equipped to wander down the cobbled streets of Italy.
“Whether it's a trip to the shop or a catchup with friends, chic and timeless is the dress code for any occasion.”
Get the Look
Hollister
Linen-Blend Waistcoat
£25.95
Hollister
Linen-Blend Wrap Mini-Skort
£27.95
Leopard Print
Leopard print has returned to our wardrobes with valiance this year. Regardless of runway trends and seasonal shifts, animal prints have always been a permanent Italian staple. From maxi skirts and tops to dresses and accessories, there are so many ways to inject some animal print into your day-to-day outfits.
I styled a maxi leopard print skirt with simple black tops and chunky gold earrings to give a bold yet elegant look.
Tailored Pieces
We have seen an influx of tailoring in our wardrobes recently, from blazers and trousers to waistcoats and buttoned shirts. This year, the ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic has grown drastically and introduced classic and elegant pieces that are building the foundations of our capsule wardrobes.
Tailored pieces give such an elevated feel to an outfit. The beauty of these pieces is that they can be styled anywhere between smart and casual. Paired with sunnies, a chic bag, and even trainers, these tailored pieces can give you that effortless it-girl moment.
“Regardless of runway trends and seasonal shifts, animal prints have always been a permanent Italian staple.”
Get the Look
H&M
Suit Waistcoat
£18.99
Primark
Leopard Mesh Overlay Midi Skirt
£10
Boho
Boho is back. We've had bohemian staples take centre stage this summer season, and they are coming with us into the autumn period. Oversized blouses, pops of leather, and of course, the floaty, tiered skirts embellished with white lace. 2000’s fashion is here to stay, and I’m here for it.
I paired a white, flowy maxi skirt with a black cami and sandals for a chic look by Lake Como. So simple, and yet, it did all the talking against this gorgeous backdrop.
A Pop of Denim
I also paired this skirt with a denim bandeau top which gave a nod to that classic 2000's bohemian vibe.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence also served as a gorgeous backdrop despite the rain!
Get the Look
H&M
Denim bustier
£14.99
Hollister
Lace Maxi Skirt
£39.95
Neutrals
Neutral colours - think white, beige, taupe, creams, and black. These colours are far from boring, and when paired together, they create elegant and understated outfits.
Neutral items are essential to creating a capsule wardrobe, and remain timeless through the years and ever-changing trends. Simple, flattering, and versatile, these colours embrace a quiet sophistication that draws attention - why not let them do the talking?
“Simple, flattering, and versatile, these colours embrace a quiet sophistication that draws attention - why not let them do the talking?”
Get the Look
ASOS Design
Cami ruched mini dress with bow in black
£28
ASOS Design
Full skirt broderie midi dress in white
£40
