It's worth noting that the autumn style in
Milan is different from other cities around the world. The way Parisians, New Yorkers, Londoners, or even the Romans dress for the season differs in big and small ways. And of course, Milan keeps up! This is the Italian fashion capital, after all, so the way locals dress in autumn is always chic, eye-catching, and fabulous! For example, leather is a must! Don't be afraid to wear colors, too, and know how to layer properly without looking too bulky. Take it from the Milanese! Dressing up for autumn is fun and easy!
Tailoring Should Still Reign Supreme
First things first, you need to keep things tailored. No, this doesn't necessarily mean you have to have clothes made for you just for this autumn season—though if you can afford to, why not?—but more about going for pieces that are well-cut and fit you perfectly. Most people usually go for big outerwear that makes it easier to layer but ends up looking unflattering. You don't have to look bulky when you step out in Milan this autumn! Go for coats, jackets, and suits that will keep you warm but still have you looking as svelte as ever!
Layer Smartly!
You'd be surprised at how much more complex it is to layer smartly in autumn. You can simply pile on the sweaters and outerwear if you want, but you risk looking too bulky by the end of it. Who wants to do that, especially when you step out in any of
Milan’s central neighborhoods? There are so many ways to layer up without looking like humpty dumpty! As already mentioned, going for well-tailored pieces is the way to go. Another is pairing bulky pieces with thin ones. Don't pair a chunky sweater with a big bomber jacket, for example. Instead, match a nice cashmere top with your bomber and top it off with straight-cut jeans.
Pick The Right Trench Coat
If you want to truly stay fashionable in Milan in autumn, it's better to have different kinds of trench coats. Most people usually only have one, and that's fine, but there isn't just one type of trench coat that fits all types of outfits. If you want to show off your clothes, for instance, you'll want to go for either a wrap or duster coat. A double-breasted trench, on the other hand, will elevate any look and look just as good closed! The same goes for a Chesterfield-style coat, but this is better to pair with a tailored suit or dress.
Pack on The Fine Leathers
IF there's one material that practically screams “Milan,” it's leather. Many of Italy's most luxurious brands specialize in leather goods, after all, and a lot of them are headquartered in this famous fashion capital. It's only natural that locals love wearing leather too, especially in autumn. What's great about it is that there are many ways to incorporate leather into your look. You can either put on leather outerwear for a powerful look, go for leather pants or skirts of a sexier style, or simply go for the classic leather boots. Imagine how chic you'd look strolling down
Milan's Centro Storico in anything leather!
Pile on The Accessories
Don't be afraid to accessorize! Most people still abide by the “less is more” sensibility, and that's fine, but it can get boring. Not to mention that it may not be enough for you to keep warm during autumn in Milan. Don't underestimate how cold the city can get! The temperature here can go as low as 10°C (50°F) around this time of year! A sweater with a coat won't be enough to keep you from shivering all day long. So don't be afraid to pile on the accessories as long as you're smart and balanced about it. At the very least, you'll want to add a striking scarf! It's the ultimate autumn wardrobe staple in Milan.
Don't Be Afraid of Colors
If you
move to Milan, you'll eventually notice that locals love wearing color. Neutrals may dominate the luxury market as a whole, but don't forget that this is the city of Versace, Cavalli, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada. These are big brands known for their unabashed use of bright colors, even for their autumn collections. So, why not follow suit and burst with color with your outfit? Seasonal autumn colors like orange, marigold, and crimson are always a good idea, but going brightly with tangerine, hot pink, and lime green will work, too.
When All Else Fails, Wear Black
If you're simply not up for wearing colors, donning black will always do! Black is as much a part of Milan's luxury scene as all the other colors are. You can even go out in all black, and you'll still look like the chicest thing to ever descend upon the city. Don't worry! You won't end up looking like a goth as long as you balance your look. Adding a pop of color will give it more dimension, too! Case in point: Versace Fall 2015! This show may have been a decade ago, but the looks are still as fashionable as ever today!
Boots are Always a Good Idea
Now, let's talk about footwear. Though many kinds of shoes will still work for autumn in Milan, a nice pair of boots is arguably the best option. Be they low-cut or thigh-high, flats or with heels, boots will always look good in autumn. This rings especially true in Milan since many of the city's famous brands are famous for boots, too. Gucci, Prada, and Fendi have and always put out some of the chicest boots to ever hit the market. Don't be afraid to go for different patterns and colors, too!
Finish Off with a Touch of Sparkle
Back on the topic of accessorizing, don't forget about your jewelry! Autumn wardrobe staples tend to overpower the wearer in more ways than one. From chunky sweaters to big trench coats, it's easy to drown in these pieces if you're not careful. Hence, you'll want to pile on the jewelry to add a bit of sparkle. Necklaces and bangles are always a good idea, as are earrings! This is also where going maximalist will work, especially if you went for a minimalist look with your outfit. Check out
Italy's best jewelry brands to know which pieces will work in Milan!
If there's one place you should dress to impress during the autumn season, it's Milan. Fortunately, it's not that hard to follow how locals do it. Here, autumn dressing is all about leather pieces, striking colors, and the right accessories!
