Project Indo-Italian Chic-ness

From Sophia Loren to Monica Bellucci, from Donatella Versace to Miuccia Prada — Italian women have always been fiercely bold and rewritten their own style rules. Now the question is — what are the key elements which constitute Italian style? To begin with, a pair of massive, diva-like sunnies, a hint of lace on the shirt or dress, bold red lips, a statement necklace and a tailored blazer. “She is unapologetically sexy and is definitely not a wallflower. She doesn’t follow the herd mentality and doesn’t shy away from embracing colours,” says Malini Banerji, Fashion Director, Elle.

Italian style is never forced 

Designer Sanchita Ajjampur observes that Italians tend to look effortless, whether their style is classic, OTT or eccentric, it’s never forced. “Both Italians and Indians have an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. Italians are very aware of their body shape and emphasise on wearing well-fitting clothes. Sophia Loren is the epitome of old-school glamour, Anna Piaggi, the formidable ex-Editor of Vogue Italia whose eclectic style inspired many to Anna Della Russo who can make ‘bad taste’ look very cool,” says Sanchita.   

The key is balance 

Sujata Assomull, Fashion Editor, Khaleej Times seconds that. “Italians never overdo it, there is a simplicity to it, even though they embrace colour and enjoy their accessories. I think the key to Italian style is balance — the line between being classic and au courant, knowing how to be elegant yet have a hit of extravagance. They have a soft approach to fashion be it fabrics, tailoring or styling,” says she.

Myriad styles 

Malini underscores that Italians put a lot of thought into their closet and they see it as an art form and it’s not just about fashion. “It could be something very artistic, say from Marni or Jil Sander. Each piece has to mean something. A lot of thought goes into every aspect of a look — say the sock colour, prints or textures. It may not be a trendy look but Italians have a cool take on it. For example, Bottega Veneta is glam and has its varied nuances, Blumarine is kind of old Hollywood and Dolce & Gabbana always celebrates the exuberance of Sicily. You never mistake Dolce for anything else,” adds Malini. 

What can Indian women borrow

What’s common between Indian and Italian aesthetic is their mutual love for colours, prints and embellishments. Malini recommends, “Get something from Missoni with a colourful net or Emilio Pucci prints. Etro celebrates India more than we do and there are always strong Indian influences.”

Sujata emphasises on learning the way Italian make everything feel so soft and fluid, thanks to their innate sense of style. “I feel Italian look at clothes as part of a wardrobe and not as statement pieces — and this really is the art of good dressing,” she quips.  

Both Indian and Italian cultures are rooted in rich history, craftsmanship and sartorial techniques which makes this stylistic osmosis all the more alluring. Stylist Allia Al Rufai observes that the Italian style has certain amount of vibrancy like Indian wear. “Borrow from their play and use of colours prints and embroidery detail. There have been times when I’ve worked with a Dolce corset or a Missoni top with a lehenga or teamed a Moschino jacket with a sari,” says she.