Italian Design · 28 April 2025
Bvlgari has launched a major project in Valenza, Italy, the country's jewellery capital, by expanding its Manifattura, now the largest single-brand jewellery manufacturing site globally. The facility's space has increased by 204,514 square feet, totaling 355,209 square feet, underscoring Bvlgari’s commitment to sustainable and socially responsible luxury. The expansion will create 500 new craftsman positions, bringing total jobs to 1,600 by 2029, supported by a new on-site training school.
Italian Design · 27 April 2025
Since the 1950s, Gucci’s silk scarves have evolved from simple accessories to artistic pieces. This transformation began in 1958 with a collaboration with a Como silk producer, introducing the nautical-themed “Tolda di Nave.” In the 1960s, illustrator Vittorio Accornero de Testa added vibrant designs, notably the Gucci Flora print created for Princess Grace of Monaco in 1966. The forthcoming book "Gucci: The Art of Silk" by Assouline, releasing in April 2025, will delve into the brand's legacy.
Italian Style · 23 April 2025
We previously wrote about the luxurious Orient Express travel in Italy in 2022 and 2023. Now, we're excited to share details about the 2025 offering for the La Dolce Vita Orient Express Train. Starting at Ostiense Station in Rome, this journey embraces slow travel through 14 Italian regions with eight exclusive itineraries for discerning travellers. The train features 31 cabins, 18 suites, 12 deluxe cabins, and the signature La Dolce Vita Suite resulting from meticulous and elegant restoration.
Italian Design · 22 April 2025
The Bottega Veneta Spring/Summer 2025 collection showcases youthful imagination, blending power dressing with playful elements through vibrant colours and textures. Key features include floral details, frog-themed jewellery, and crinkled fabrics, creating a striking contrast between cute and radical. This collection marks Matthieu Blazy's last as he moves to Chanel, with Louise Trotter announced as the new creative director.
Italian Decor · 17 April 2025
Last week, Milan hosted its annual Milan Design Week—Salone del Mobile, which attracted a record 302,000 visitors, with 68% coming from 151 countries. The fair celebrated innovative design and the principle of sustainability, with various installations using unexpected materials like cork, recycled scrap, and bamboo, as in Gucci's exhibition. Soft shades and earthy colours once again take centre stage. Curves dominate the scene as sharp edges disappear, giving way to soft, enveloping lines.
Italy Travel · 15 April 2025
Beyond its spiritual events, Easter in Rome offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can explore historic sites like the Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Pantheon and enjoy Italian cuisine at local cafes and restaurants. Throughout Holy Week, festivals and markets feature local delicacies and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the Vatican Museum, home to the Sistine Chapel, and the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. Many hotels and restaurants offer special Easter Sunday menus - here the list.
Italian Style · 14 April 2025
The other day, while watching the popular cooking show "Sempre Mezzogiorno" on RAI, I discovered Diego Cusano's food art. He is an eclectic illustrator and artist of international fame. In 2014, he published the illustrated book “Food Art & Fantasy,” which features an unusual menu for fantasy gourmets, consisting of 35 illustrations. His innovative artwork showcases some of Italy’s most famous DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) ingredients, serving as a fabulous promotion of Made in Italy.
Italian Cuisine · 11 April 2025
Just a short drive from Bergamo, Da Vittorio Relais & Châteaux offers a peaceful retreat from city life. With three Michelin Stars, it is managed by Signora Bruna Cerea and her five children. The restaurant's menus combine Lombard tradition with creativity and change seasonally. Paccheri alla Vittorio, a signature dish, showcases the essence of Italian cuisine. Below are the details for the recipe. Buon Appetito!
Italian Design · 10 April 2025
For her Spring 2025 show, Miceli chose the stunning La Cervara, a former abbey on the road to Portofino, known for its breathtaking views and Italian Renaissance garden. The show, attended by 230 guests, took place just before sunset, creating perfect moments for Instagram. Miceli showcased her collection centered around the Marmo print, inspired by sunlight reflecting on the sea. This season, the print featured soft sorbet and powder pink hues alongside black waves on silk garments.
Italian Style · 09 April 2025
The palazzo often referred to as Sophia Loren's £5 million Venice residence was actually only used by her during the 1955 Venice Film Festival. The historic Palazzo Tron a San Beneto, located in San Marco with views of the Rialto Bridge, was formerly home to the influential Tron family. Nicolò Tron, the 68th Doge of Venice (1471-1473), likely commissioned its reconstruction, adding two stories. In 2018, the European Heritage Project acquired portions of the palazzo from the Franchetti family.