The Sartorialist

Current career?

My boyfriend Nicola and I own a shop in Arezzo, Tuscany called VOGA– I enjoy my work so much! We’re complimentary in the sense that I work closely with customers, and he loves working on the business side– he’s rigorous and tidy, while I am quite the opposite, so our respected roles suit us well.

What do you find challenging about owning a shop together?

Things are more difficult now that we have a baby.  She stays with us in the shop sometimes and travels on buying trips. It’s definitely harder to place orders during the buying meetings and run around fashion week carrying all of her things in addition to all of mine!

You always seem to be running around in heels…

I still wear heels every day regardless of how busy I am. I wouldn’t wear sneakers or a down jacket, they’re too casual for me, it doesn’t feel right. Every morning I get dressed based on my shoes… I even pack them in my carry-on when traveling in fear of losing a pair!

Do certain pieces instantly make you feel more feminine?

Beautiful shoes! My favorites are a pair from Louboutin in Daffodile beige and my winter orange ones from Zanotti– I always feel more powerful when wearing them.

Have you worn anything recently that felt exciting and bold?

A certain Dolce & Gabbana leopard print dress– I felt excited because it was different for me:  a little sexier, a little bolder.  I also find myself feeling this way when I wear my favorite hats from Maison Michel.

Where do you continually find inspiration?

Venice, especially during the biennale of art—you can find inspiration for everything there! It would be amazing to have a special installation from Maurizio Cattelan or Dan Flavin in my shop.

Fonteverde a Thermal Centre (Thermal Baths) in San Casciano dei Bagni is where I go for peace of mind.  It’s not only relaxing but has a wonderful view of the Tuscan hills.

Where’s your favorite place to have a drink?

The Piazza San Francesco Arezzo Bolgheri with a glass of red wine from Terre di Piero.

Most visually inspiring movie?

La Piscina with Alain Delon and Romy Schnieder is just stunning.

 

Do you wear many heirloom pieces?

I have a Jackie O bag from Gucci that  my mother gave it to me many years ago– every time I wear it I like to think about how trendy it was when she was wearing it. For the evening, I wear a very special python bag made by my dear friend Marco Pasini.

 

Favorite shops in Paris?

Merci and Bon Ton in Paris always have interesting ideas and creative installations. Also Bonpoint– the little polka-dot coats and dresses are very Parisenne and cool for my daughter Antonia!

Which publications do you read most often?

I always enjoy Dazed & Confused, Vogue Paris, and Monocle.

Music that keeps you going?

Italian music is my favorite, mostly from the 60s and 70s — singers like Mina, Mia Martini, Serge Gainsburg and Dalida. Sometimes in the shop we’ll play the Colette Podcast.

Skincare/Grooming regimen?

AESOP is my go-to– I use the Facial Crème Hydratante à la Noix de la Camélia, and Geranium Leaf Cleanser for the body, also Kiehls lip balm and hand cream.

Most memorable style advice?

I always remind myself of something Vreeland once said, “The only real elegance is in the mind; if you’ve got that, the rest really comes from it.”