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Four Milan boutiques known by fashion connoisseurs

Any time of the year is a good time to fly to Milan for some shopping. But with so much on offer, it makes sense to know where to find the best articles. We asked the US fashion expert and designer JJ Martin, who’s been living in the city since 2001, for her recommendations, and here are four of her favorite independent shops for a day of perfect shopping.

  1. 1 For him: Italian glamour

    Massimo Pombo, which is spread over five floors, is located in the former in the Piazza San Marco studio of the famous architect Gae Aulenti. “When you see the impeccable selection of boldly shaped articles and the shop’s eclectic décor with tropical plants and found art, you’ll probably want to move in and set up home,” warns JJ Martin.

    Massimo Pombois located in the Piazza San Marco
    Credit: Luigi Fiano
  2. 2 If you’re shopping with the kids

    Every season, the charming Uberta Zambelletti fills the shelves of her boutique Wait and See with fun garments from super cool brands like Peter Jensen, Lulu & Co and Samuji. The comfortable couches, fine music selection and chalkboards for visitors to play with make it the perfect choice if you’re shopping with your partner or the little ones.

    Uberta Zambelletti is the owner of Wait and See
    Credit: Luigi Fiano
  3. 3 If you like retro

    Somewhere between a retro clothing store and design gallery, L’Arabesque is the perfect place to find classic Schiaparelli garments or furniture from the 1950s. “It’s ideal if you prefer classic items over Prada’s latest collection,” says JJ Martin.

    Somewhere between a retro clothing store and design gallery
    Credit: Luigi Fiano
  4. 4 Finding secondhand couture

    Madame Pauline is a hidden gem where you’ll find pristine garments from the 1930s and 40s,” says JJ Martin. If you search patiently, you may find some fantastic pieces from 20th-century designers like Roberto Capucci, Roberta di Camerino or Valentino. But you won’t have to pay in lire; the prices have been adapted to our times.

    Madame Pauline is perfect if you love products with history
    Credit: Luigi Fiano