SPRING 2023 ITALIAN FASHION

The Italian woman is iconic. She is Monica Bellucci power-walking across the square of the Piazza del Duomo. She is Sophia Loren flaunting her curves while dancing for Cary Grant. She is Lucia Pica reinventing the beauty wheel while staying true to the classic film noir color palette, and she is Donatella Versace designing another maximalist masterpiece for wearers who want to catalyze the trend, not catch it. Italian fashion, like the Italian woman, strive for innovation and boldness with its dramatic silhouettes, and creative usage of daring textiles. It is often sexy and unstructured, but rarely unhinged, and most certainly never outmoded.


Before I venture any further, I should make my bias known: I am a complete Italian fashion groupie. I applaud Missoni, scream for Bottega, and swoon for Diesel. With the Spring Ready-To-Wear Collections for 2023 unveiled, and the second season of the rave-reviewed The White Lotus conveniently set in Sicily, no time could be more apropos to give the Italian fashion aesthetic its flowers (and, of course inspire you to incorporate some of this year’s soon-to-be major style elements).

Sexy Silhouettes

Cinched bodices, tapered slacks, and draped necklines. Nothing brings the bombshell look to life better than a high-quality Italian basic. What should we take away from the runways of Italian fashion houses for Spring 2023? Lightweight fabrics and sheer, body-accentuating cuts are where our streetwear is headed. Best to jump on board with something airy, and whimsical before the temperatures start to climb.

Praised Prints

I know that minimalism is just as much of an Italian staple, as it is French, English, Norwegian, and German, but when I think of pronounced patterns and prints on stylish apparel, my mind immediately connects it to the Peninsula Italia. With floral accents on the rise across fashion houses for the new year, it’s time to rethink striking color combinations and garden-inspired designs.

Exiting Abundance

Our purses were small, then they ballooned to mass proportions and as quick as they entered the scene, they were gone. Join me in welcoming, yet again, the micro bag. I have a hunch that our fondness for comfortable shoulder straps will withstand the body shrinkage, but say sayonara to the canvas-sized satchels…or so fashion forecasters are predicting we will react. I don’t know about you, but I am not giving up my extra-large leather tote. In my opinion, a working girl needs to be able to fit her laptop, or at least a wallet, in her handbag. However, even us busy bees are capable of taking the evenings off…and those hard shell clutches do look great with a pair of heels…

 

FEATURED

KAHITE

THE NIRVA DRESS 

Among the most alluring elements of the Pre-Fall collection is this luminous slipdress. With a deep v-neckline formed by softly pleated triangular cups, the bias-cut silhouette is crafted of Italian charmeuse that has been calendered: a heat-pressing process that seals the weave to impart sleekness and shine. The lingerie straps are joined to frame the draped back.â It slips on for a smooth, flattering fit.

Cynthia Rowley

Sheer Shimmer Organza Shirt

This Cynthia Rowley Sheer Shimmer Organza Shirt Cynthia Rowley boyfriend shirt crafted from a sheer shimmer organza Spread collar; button front and Long sleeves.

ELDER STATESMAN

Cashmere Rainbow Woven Doheny Coat

The Elder Statesman's Greg Chait says he's always been drawn to "well made things" and always uses quality materials in his own line. This 'Doheny' coat is made from soft wool and cashmere-blend patterned with vibrant rainbow checks that are guaranteed to brighten up a wintery day. Use the belt to cinch your waist.

REFORMATION

Frankie Silk Dress

Slinky. This is a slim-fitting, ankle-length dress with a straight neckline, spaghetti straps, and a center back slit. The smocked back bodice provides a little extra comfort.

JIMMY CHOO

The MICRO CLOUD Fuchsia Satin Mini Bag with Aveline Bow

The MICRO CLOUD clutch has timeless appeal. Italian-crafted in fuchsia satin and adorned with our Aveline bow. Our mighty mini bag is then topped with a gold clasp that features the iconic gold JC signature.

LIBERTE LEATHER

Everyday Leather Tote - Cognac Brown

Your everyday leather tote bag that will absolutely match your on-the-go lifestyle. Hand made from 100% genuine cowhide leather. Our large tote is designed with simple, clean lines that will complete your casual stylish look.

NUMERO UNO

Textured Bag Addition 

The signature "Numéro Un" design miniaturized to the smallest detail: folds, half-moon flap, base studs and exterior patch pocket.

The leather lining and detailed finishes highlight the quality of the brand's craftsmanship.

 
 

EXPLORE VANITY STORIES

Abigail Kussow

Somewhere between driving forty-eight minutes to get to the nearest Sephora, and getting a degree in Anthropology, I found myself–-as many of us do– utterly dissatisfied with where I was headed. I would pick up extra hours at the university library because it gave me access to the latest issues Condé Nast had to offer, and I was guilty of the cardinal sin of wearing my favorite pair of sling-back mules in the laboratory. When the novelty of being in academia wore off, I clung to the joy I found in the novels of Joan Didion, and clips of fashion week that trickled down my social media feeds. Hi, I’m Abigail, and like my fellow VS authors, clean beauty and writing are part of the lifestyle. I refuse to divorce myself from monochrome minimalism and subtle plum lipstick. I’m a fervent believer that mascara should be layered on top and bottom. Shoes are just as important as your manicure, and perfume is best when it doesn’t crowd the room. I am the #caférecluse on her 2009-2012 Rachel McAdams aesthetic binge, and I wear it well.

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