Whilst Milan (where Essteele cookware is made) typically retains the mantle as the fashion capital of Italy, Florence more than holds its own with an impressive roll call of iconic luxury brands and bespoke concept stores. Shop Essteele's latest edit of luxe designer boutiques and department stores.
Salvatore Ferragamo Flagship & Museum
Florence, the birthplace of legendary fashion label Salvatore Ferragamo is also home to the brand's impossibly chic flagship store and museum housed in a 17th-century Medieval palace. Museo Salvatore Ferragamo does more than simply tell the story of Ferragamo's unerring passion for accessories and shoes, it also promotes exhibitions, seminars, and events on contemporary fashion culture. Footwear, handbags and small leather goods, scarves and ties, men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, bijoux, watches, fragrances and eyewear are all available at the flagship store.
Piazza Santa Trinita 5r; Firenze
Emilio Pucci
A major influence in contemporary fashion, Florentine fashion designer Emilio Pucci's legacy lives on in over 50 boutiques around the world. The Florence boutique offers a Pucci-inspired ready-to-wear and accessories collection and remains one of the most beautiful and oft-visited boutiques in the Tuscan city.
Via dei Tornabuoni 20-22/r 50123, Firenze
La Rinascente
Famed not least for its chic rooftop bar and stunning views of the city, La Rinascente is an upmarket department store housed in a historic palazzo in the heart of Florence. With no less than six floors to peruse, fashion-savvy shoppers can choose from classic designers including Jil Sander, Mary Katrantzou, and Kenzo to current red-hot labels including MSGM, Otswald Helgason, and Markus Lupfer. Homewares, specialty foods, and chi-chi children's attire are also part of the palazzo's offerings with a post-shop prosecco or two a winning combination.
Piazza della Repubblica 3-5; Firenze
39-055-219-113.
Luisa Via Roma
Whilst this contemporary online site boasts a cult following, fashionistas also flock to the bricks-and-mortar version based in Florence where three floors of renowned and emerging designers sit side by side in stylish harmony. The luxury retailer features over 600 designers including Fendi, Balmain, Lanvin, Jimmy Choo and Burberry although the destination is worth a visit for the visually extravagant merchandising alone.
Via Roma 19/21r. Firenze
Bjork
For a somewhat edgier vibe, and frequented by all the Florentine it-girls (and boys), head over to Bjork, a concept store housing a globally sourced range of contemporary fashion brands including the London-based House Of Sunny, Studio Pretzel and LUCIO VANOTTI. Located in the picturesque Santo Spirito district Bjork is also famed for their vast range of international fashion and design magazines including Kinfolk, the gentlewoman and The Travel Almanac.
Via dello Sprone, 25R, 50125 Firenze,
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