Spring is almost here, and Italy is serving up transitional style that’s as rich and layered as a perfect lasagna. Stylish Italians are once again proving that fashion is their second language — well, either that or food, naturalmente. This season, think preppy knits that hug cozier than Nonna at Sunday dinner and sweeping skirts that practically demand a cinematic Vespa ride.
While I’d love to stroll the streets of Milan or sip a glass of vino along Rome’s Via Condotti to soak up the effortless Italian street style, I’ve made do by gluing myself to my social media feed, double-tapping through a masterclass in la moda Italiana. And if my scrolling has taught me anything, it’s this: Italians don’t follow trends — they set the tempo for the world to follow. Below, a few of my favorite muses show us how to sprinkle a little bellissima magic into our wardrobes.
Long skirts
When in Italy, do as the Italians do and slip into a long, sleek skirt. It’s their transitional staple for a reason: The length shields you from chilly temps while adding a bit of polish to an outfit. You can dress them up with knee-high boots and a turtleneck, get a bit sassy by wearing them with tights and high-heeled booties, or keep the look relaxed with bare legs and some comfy sneakers once the weather warms up.
Pop of color
Across Italy, the chic set is embracing the art of the unexpected color pop — one bold splash against an otherwise neutral canvas. Think a fire-engine red sweater thrown across your shoulders, a bright clutch against tailored camel, or bold pink sneakers with a crisp white shirt and jeans. It’s deliberate yet daring. Just remember to keep the rest of your look refined and let that single statement shade do all the flirting.
East/West bags
We love a carryall that fits your whole life — but if you’re ready to retire the trusty tote and predictable crossbody, make way for the East/West bag. This sleek, elongated silhouette has been gliding down the streets of Milan and Rome since last year, and its reign is far from over. With a chic horizontal shape, it feels sharper and more fashion-forward than your average ludicrously capacious bag. And even though they’re less bulky, more bella figura, there’s still plenty of room for the essentials.
Soft loafers
You may have a pair of loafers in your rotation, but in Italy, they’ve taken on a softer stride. Women are trading in stiff, structured versions for supple, buttery soft pairs that feel as indulgent as a morning cappuccino and look just as smooth. With their relaxed silhouette and whisper of quiet luxury, these loafers have that rare magic of turning even jeans and a tee into an outfit that looks intentionally effortless.
Polo shirts
A basic sweater? Sempre chic. But a collared polo knit — that’s where the Italian magic happens. With its sharp neckline and tailored edge, it looks polished, not piled on, delivering that unmistakable sprezzatura: Refined, but never fussy. Wear it alone with your fave trousers or layer it over a crisp button-down to really let the collar do the talking.
Oversized blazers
From Milan’s sleek streets to Florence’s art-filled avenues, Italians are embracing exaggerated silhouettes with ease. The boxy cut on these layers feels oversized but intentional, adding polish without the stiffness and giving every look that borrowed-from-the-boys vibe that, let’s face it, looks way better on us.
Winter whites
Italians are embracing winter white styles with an unapologetic attitude. Think ivory knits layered under a suede jacket, or a soft, cream cashmere sweater tucked into tailored off-white trousers. You likely already have a few go-to white staples in rotation, but the real allure is in how you style them — now, and as the temperatures begin to rise. Throw on those snowy chunky sweaters to get through brisk mornings now, then trade classic blue denim for a crisp ecru pair when hints of spring start to surface.
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