I have finally made it abroad! Italian fashion is just one of the many things I have begun to learn about in my first few weeks here.
As I sat down in my Fashion Buying Concepts course in the most beautiful school building I could have imagined, the syllabus was read aloud. Most of what was outlined was typical of any syllabus I would have received back at Indiana University, except for the dress code. We are not allowed to wear shorts or anything with a hem above the knee. Shoulders cannot be exposed either. I was a bit taken back by these rules, as we will be in class until May with warm air and sunshine. This first class I experienced here in Florence marked the start of my realization about Italian fashion. I realized that dressing for Italy is about style, as it is in America, but it is more importantly about being modest.
When walking the streets of Florence (getting lost in the streets of Florence) I found this Fashionista in line for a cappuccino between her two classes of the day. She is wearing a floral Free People tunic, paired with opaque tights and suede, black booties. I immediately noticed the floral pattern of her tunic and wanted this look in my own wardrobe.
It has been an adjustment for me to see everyone come to class in trendy, well-thought-out outfits like this one. I am used to T-shirts and leggings covering the campus of IU. I love the concept of dressing up for class and showing personality through clothes in any setting.
This Fashionista said that tights are her best friends here in Italy. They cover her legs and keep her classy, while allowing her to still wear her favorite dress/skirt pieces that may be too short for class otherwise. The suede booties top off this simple, yet stylish look.
I know I have so much still to learn from this beautiful city in the next four months that I’m here. What I have learned so far? Italy is worth dressing up for.
Captured: This look was found on the streets of Florence, Italy at a cafe just outside the Piazza Del Duomo in the center of the city.
