WTI Magazine #29    2014 May, 8
Author : Maria Teresa Squillaci      Translation by:

Italian dressing is more than European fashions and a wardrobe full of Italian fashion brands; it's an ease, a fashion silhouette, and an inner style. There are certain fashion staples that every woman should have in her closet, so she can take her Italian Chic look anywhere, day or night.

• Jeans: Three must-have colors—black, gray, and blue denim. A flattering cut to enhance your shape and silhouette. Hem lengths so you have jeans that work with both heels and flats.

• Little Minidress: Always make sure the dress works with your silhouette. Must-haves: a little black number to dress up or down, and something bright or floral for some flair. And if you have a boyish shape, minidresses were made for you, especially when worn with boots.

• Jackets, Blazers & Vests: Whether it's a leather jacket, vest, or blazer, you can throw these on to be a little rock-and-roll or add some elegance. The right cut and length for your shape will help slim you.

• Complete Italian Chic: Accessories work to enhance and complement your height and shape, and complete the Italian Chic look. Choose big square scarves, wraps, and natural-toned, wide, and super-slim belts.

There is no other land that so brilliantly conveys the art of over the top, full on cocktail wear for breakfast than Italy. Italians' fashion predilection for a curve-hugging number know no bounds. Dolce & Gabbana have made the image of a Sicilian temptress a business model for the last thirty years, Mr Cavalli never designed anything that wouldn't float on his yacht while Donatella Versace has cannily continued Gianni's vision of the most high level of all muses, herself. Think lashings of silk, leather and lace, clinging organza and bead work to make you dizzy. If the words high and maintenance don't apply to you... continue reading below...

We bow down to two queens of avant garde yet entirely wearable clothes: Consuelo Castiglioni of Marni and Miuccia Prada, or Mrs Prada as she is known. For when your hair isn't perfect, for when you crave a chunky brogue, for an odd pattern and some kooky layered knits. Your boyfriend might not understand it, but it's not for him.

The office. We know, two words that strike fear and loathing straight to our very hearts too. But for those days when you have to kick some serious boardroom butt, hello Mr Armani and your still-on-point perfect tailoring. Think grey. Think lashings of Max Mara cashmere wool draped over your arm.

If Valentino Garavani has taught us anything, and actually he's really taught us quite a lot – red, always a winner on a night out - it's that the very best accompaniment to a stroll in Roma's rolling hills, is a fleet of matching pugs. So chic, so beige, so... fashion.