As the two-month mark quickly approaches, Florence is starting to feel like home away from home. No longer do you wander around aimlessly looking for a certain class, a restaurant, or better yet your own apartment. But have you really embraced all of the culture, oh I’m sure the food, but what about style? After all, Italy is a great place to expand your wardrobe and fill up your closet! It’s time to leave behind your American tendencies and try something new. Here are some tips to transform your look from tourista to fashionista:
Do:
Buy that leather bag you have been eyeing for days
It’s no secret that Florence is known for their high quality leather goods, always a great complement to any outfit! To find the bag of your dreams go to the San Lorenzo market just past the Duomo. There are vendors everywhere; it is almost impossible to miss. Here you will find the best quality for a great price, so don’t be afraid to bargain. A nice leather bag will have you well on your way to embracing the Italian style!
Accent an outfit with a printed scarf
A decorative scarf can dress up an outfit for any occasion, whether it be going to class or enjoying a nice lunch at an outdoor café. Don’t be afraid to try out prints or mix and match. Not only are scarves a stylish accessory but affordable too! If you know where to look you can get them for only 10 euro!
Accessorize!
Bring out your bracelets and necklaces because Italians love to use jewelry to transform any outfit. Check out the Ponte Vecchio for an amazing assortment of accessories from some well-known designers. While it is pricy it’s always fun to take a look. After all what girl doesn’t love some window- shopping?
Splurge on a nice pair of boots
A girl can never have too many shoes, right? Well you’re in luck because Italians love shoes, especially high quality. So set aside those boots you squeezed into your suitcase and find a nice pair for the fall. Not only will they make you feel like a local, but they will also last longer on the cobblestone!
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Don’t:
Sport workout clothes all the time
At home we all are guilty of wearing workout clothes for comfort, regardless of whether we are actually going to the gym. While it may be the norm in America, this style choice gives off the tourist vibe here in Italy. To transition from tourista to fashionista you may have to save the workout clothes for the gym… or exam weeks because we all know those don’t count.
Wear flip-flops
Trust me I know flip-flops are the comfiest shoes out there, but they are a quick sign of a tourist in a city full of cobblestone. Instead if the weather is nice choose a cute pair of sandals or flats as a stylish substitute!
So for that next shopping spree make sure to check out some of Italy’s iconic fashion styles. They will be sure to transform your look and leave you with new trends to bring back to campus!