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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.