La moda italiana

By Claudia Quesito

Italian design (la moda italiana) and style need no introduction. Together with food, fashion is one of the most celebrated Italian staples.

It is important for the economy and has a highly symbolic meaning, illustrating in the most iconic way a certain Italian way of life. 

Indeed,  fashion (la moda) truly is a force in the Belpaese. Its relevance in the everyday life of most Italians is at times overstated, however; not all Italians dress in a super fashionable way, nor is everyone in Italy even interested in the topic. 

It is true, however, that Italians generally pay close attention to what they wear, and the idea of fare bella figura (making a good impression) is definitely not just a stereotype.

Moda italiana: Redefining the concept of style

During the 2020 shutdown, online shopping increased. Some people even debated online whether it was appropriate to wear pajamas or similar when accepting your package from the delivery person.

While it is impossible to name all the world-famous Italian designers, a few are undeniably considered the classics: Armani, Versace, and Valentino. Say “Armani,” and everyone thinks of easy elegance and timeless class.

With all his simplicity, Re Giorgio, as he is appropriately nicknamed, has redefined the concept of style through his signature blazers, pantsuits, and dresses in his iconic white, blue, and black shades.

Do not picture only your average impeccable lady, though; Armani has dressed Lady Gaga and Gwen Stefani, among many celebrities. 

As for Versace, the company was created by the genius of Gianni, but has been kept well alive by his sister, Donatella, after Gianni’s death in 1997.

From Elizabeth Hurley’s 1994 black dress on the red carpet—which made such a sensation that it was named “that dress”—to Jennifer Lopez’s 2000 jungle green dress, the Versace family has well deserved its rock ‘n roll reputation.

Finally, we have Valentino, a designer who even “crafted” a color, il rosso Valentino. (Look up Scarlett Johansson in 2006 for a visual).

From Jackie Kennedy’s effortless outfits to Julia Roberts’s black and white dress in 2001 (copies of which became a prom best-seller in the US), Valentino certainly knows how to make a lasting impression. 

The classics are only the tip of the iceberg of the Italian landscape of great fashion minds, however. Go ahead and discover the less famous ones, and you’ll be surprised!

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