Florence, famous for the Renaissance and Michelangelo’s sculptures, is one of the most visited cities in Italy. However, there is another, lesser known, side of Florence that many oversee: fashion. Now you may be a bit confused, since most immediately think of Milan or Rome, when it comes to Italian high fashion. Florence, however, is the birthplace of Italian high fashion! In fact, the coined term, Made in Italy, began in the Renaissance city, and designers, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Gucci both originated in Florence. If you have a passion for fashion, or want to see a unique side of Florence that many tourists don’t know about, check out my fashion lover’s guide to Florence!
FERRAGAMO MUSEUM
For those who aren’t familiar with Salvatore Ferragamo, he is a celebrated shoe designer (or as I like to refer to him, a shoe god) who invented the wedge and cage heel. He opened his shop in 1995, and designed shoes for many Hollywood starlets, including Marilyn Monroe. The museum, which is located in Piazza Santa Trinita, is an ode to the late designer, showcasing his creations and sketches. The vast collection documents Ferragamo’s entire career, even including shoes produced after his death in 1960. If you love shoes, as I do, this museum is a must!
GUCCI MUSEUM
The recently curated museum next to Palazzio Vecchio, reopened its doors a year ago. The new museum, now called Gucci Garden, caters to foodies, museumgoers, and fashion lovers, alike. It combines a restaurant, museum, and gift shop into one unique experience. The immersive museum has a large range of pieces, dating back to the start of the brand in 1921, to more recent work, and contemporary art. A visit to the new Gucci Garden will be unlike any other museum experience. As a bonus, half of the entrance fee goes to support the restoration of the City of Florence!
GALLERIA DEL COSTUME, PALAZZO PITTI
The Museum of Fashion and Costume in Palazzo Pitti is a step back in time! Palazzo Pitti itself is a beautiful building boasting the lush Boboli Gardens, and several modern art exhibits. Hidden inside the palace is the Museum of Fashion and Costume, which is Italy’s only museum dedicated to couture from the past and present! With more than 6,000 artifacts, the collection includes everything from 16th century Medici burial dresses, (a powerful family in Florentine history) to 21st century gowns and accessories. For the complete history of Italian fashion, Galleria del Costume is the place to explore!
LEATHER MARKETS
Leather is still handmade in Florence, and is one of the most sold products in the city. If you want a special souvenir, check out one (or multiple) of the leather markets! They sell a variety of small handmade accessories, like gloves and wallets, to larger purses and briefcases. If you want to splurge, opt for a nice leather jacket. You can even find workshops to witness how some of these leather goods are made, and potentially create something of your own.
ARTISAN SHOPS
One of the things I love most about Florence is the strong artisan tradition. Although not as important as several centuries ago, there are still several shops throughout the city, especially in the altarno neighborhood (which simply means on the other side of the Arno river). The shops have everything from shoes, to jewelry, and masks. Stop by one of these to see how a pair of hand crafted shoes are created from start to finish, or how a family began making masks hundreds of years before. The artisan shops are a unique and slightly hidden part of Florence. A visit to one will give you a much richer understanding of the Florentine culture than going to see the David (even though you should still go because it is incredible)!
LUXURY OUTLET
A fashion guide would not be complete without shopping suggestions! Apart from the leather markets, and artisan shops, the historical center, offers endless streets of shopping. For those who want to splurge, or indulge in some luxury window-shopping, a trip to The Mall is a must. The Mall is a luxury outlet, located near the production factories of many high-end brands, like Burberry, Prada, and Gucci. Some stores offer discounts of up to 70% off! I’ve actually found two pairs of Gucci shoes here for 70% off, and cannot recommend the outlet enough! There is a direct bus service from the main bus station next to Santa Maria Novella. Buses departs every 30 minutes, and tickets cost about 13 euros/ $15 round-trip.
Firenze, as the locals call it, is an amazing city bursting with art and history. Whether you are a fashion, history or art lover, the Renaissance city has something to offer everyone! For those looking for a unique and lesser known side of the city, make sure to follow my fashion lover’s guide to Florence!
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
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