Something I adore about fashion is that is is constantly changing. Change is exciting. Change is refreshing and speaks to my creative side. And yet, I fell head over heels for this classic white dress at a boutique in Bellagio, Italy.
And so naturally, when Mark asked me to accompany him on a trip to San Diego, I brought it along.
The weather forecast predicted warm, sunny days. And I couldn’t wait to wear this dress that makes me feel like an Italian movie star from the fifties. Okay, it might not have a seriously full skirt like the famous one in “La Dolce Vita.” But it still gives me that feeling!
To me, Italy oozes with style. This dress may be simple, but the pleats are very precise and clean.
Clothing made in Italy is also of very high quality. I realized after taking this dress out of the garment bag that I would need to do a lot more ironing than usual if I continue buying pieces like this. But can you think of a better way of avoiding that “slobby American” stereotype!
Here’s something interesting about Italy that I learned there recently. I used to think that all Italians had an innate sense of style – to perfection! Julia (who lives in Piacenza) burst my bubble. She informed me that in a lot of boutiques, salespeople style outfits for their customers. She even said that some people enter a shop clueless about what to put together.
I have to say that I was slightly disappointed, but in a way, also relieved. It’s an art, after all, to style a killer outfit. And I don’t mind free style advice, even though I also enjoy the creative process.
When I got this dress, I took advantage of a very savvy saleswoman – or I might say, free personal stylist. She pulled out a bright pink belt and demonstrated how it transformed the dress. (I am totally crushing on pink and YELLOW right now.) What a beautiful difference it made!
Then when I got home, I found sandals in my closet by the same brand as the belt. I’ll definitely have to bring it all back with me on my next summer trip to Italy. But it was also perfect for the San Diego coast. Hope you like the look! Ciao!
I wore: Blubianca dress / Lavia cardigan / Ferragamo belt and sandals / Prada and Balenciaga sunglasses
