Sartorial Milan and its Challenges

 

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Milan’s fabled Via della Spiga

I know I’ve waxed poetic about Milan several times, but can you really blame me? From the food and fashion to its rhythm and energy to its history and charm, it’s a distinguished city, and one that never lacks sartorial splendor.

I’m obsessed with The Sartorialist blog and try to read/view it daily. I admire the compositions of Scott Schuman’s beautiful photography as well as the singular style of his subjects, all of whom effortlessly boast that je ne sais quoi aura. I admire all of the photos but it should come as no surprise to learn that I am especially fond of the images that showcase Paris and Milan. Although I’d like to try to learn a thing or two from these dashing gods and goddesses, I’ve accepted the fact that no matter how hard I try, I could never emulate them. They bring style to a whole new level and I really don’t know how they do it! As just a mere mortal myself, I’m in awe of them all.

So, in that vein, I wanted to share this video that features the one Mr. Scott Schuman and his thoughts on Milan. It beautifully captures one of the reasons why I’m so captivated with this glamorous city and its elegant inhabitants. I have learned that when in Milan, you need a daytime outfit, a nighttime outfit and plenty of in-between options, and in all of the stress, detail and energy that goes into your appearance, there’s actually some fun to be found because who doesn’t like getting dressed to the nines? At times I feel like a child playing dress-up prior to heading out on the town! And I love it!

With that being said, all of this makes packing for Milan incredibly challenging, particularly on the shoe front as I usually bring two or three pairs of heels (can’t wear them in Rome!), one or two pairs of wedges and a pair of flats. I tend to slip on the flats for the train ride…I honestly would prefer to wear wedges since that would then free up some valuable luggage space, but it’s just not practical when I’m dragging a carry-on and have a tote hanging from each of my shoulders, especially if I’m catching the metro from the train station and the escalator is broken (this happens a lot).  I also throw in some flip-flops for WEARING INDOORS ONLY, but those take up  no room at all since they’re so thin and flat. The biggest challenge is that now that I have started running again, I need to pack my sneakers and running attire, which significantly cuts into that precious luggage space, especially the sneakers which are so darn bulky. The last time, I managed with two pairs of wedges and no heels plus the running gear, but I’ll be seeing Milan again very soon–next week in fact–and I have a full dance card so heels are mandatory. What’s a girl to do? Especially with autumn and winter around the corner which means heavier clothing. I refuse to break my running streak. Perhaps I need a bigger carry-on….

 

 

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