If you are in Milan during Fashion Week – or actually any time of the year – shopping is one of the things you simply must do. Do you think that Milan is nothing but big-name luxury flagships? Think again. Italy’s fashion capital is brimming with quirky boutiques, cool concept shops and one-of-a-kind vintage stores. We asked Alexandra Grotti who I always admire for her unique finds for her favorite addresses, and she opened her address book for the best ones in town.
Wait and See (clothing/accessories/bijoux)
Via Santa Marta 14
This boutique, housed in a former convent, was created by Uberta Zambeletti, a fashionista in the best sense of the term. Not only does she have an extensive knowledge of the fashion world, but she also managed to create an ambiance in her shop that resembles every woman’s dream. Here you will find emerging designers, carefully handpicked by her. Let’s face it, everybody would wish to have the sense of easy elegance that Uberta carries with grace and elegance.
The shop: an open and promising invitation, which evokes time and tranquility, anticipation and wonder. Wait and See principally carries womenswear, with a refined assortment of clothing, accessories, bijoux, objects, stationery and vintage pieces, sourced exclusively from all over the world, from the UK to France, from Finland to California. A must for all the fashion girls out there.
Stripwardrobe (clothing/accessories/bijoux)
Via Giuseppe Mazzini 20
Amazing second hand shop with a beautiful setting and incredible pieces at great prices. Created by Michele and Christiano, who certainly know how to pick second-hand clothing. They also produce very beautiful bags and some clothes. Again affordable and very select. The place to go, to spoil oneself without feeling guilty.
Cavalli e Nastri (clothing/accessories/bijoux)
Via Brera 2
A vintage institution in Milan. You will find everything that a vintage connoisseur could desire, from 60s Gucci bags to Chanel. The prices are somewhat affordable, certainly comparing to similar shops in London and Paris. Founded by Claudia Jesi, it is one of the first luxury vintage shops in Milan. They also have two additional locations at Via Gian Giacomo Mora 3 and 12.
Madame Pauline Vintage (clothing/accessories/bijoux)
Foro Buonaparte 74
This is where I go when I feel the need of a new piece of vintage jewelry. It is also filled with the most amazing vintage clothing – capes from Yves St. Laurent to 70s Missoni dresses.
Rossana Orlandi (furniture/art)
Via Matteo Bandelli 14/16
It’s very difficult to describe this shop. I am sure it is Alice’s in Wonderland’s shop. It is like an amazing museum, filled with beautiful objects, amazing art pieces and mid-century vintage furniture, displayed in a beautiful manner. Really beautiful and interesting, inspirational and intriguing. A must-see!
Mercatino Penelope (mid-century furniture)
Via Macedonio Melloni 6
Very nice selection of mid-century furniture. Really well chosen and displayed. Affordable and the kindness of Gianni and Marco is worth the visit. They deliver worldwide and have a commando of furniture makers that can customize any piece of furniture to suit your home.
Funky Table (ceramics/everything for the table)
Via Santa Marta 19
Love love love the shop!!!! Beautiful, quirky “art de la table,” from plates to cutlery, glassware and anything that you never knew your house was missing! Beautiful selection of objects, and a nice shop to visit.