I recently travelled to Milan to meet with some Australian friends. I love this city. I was involved in the fashion industry for many years and Milan is known as the fashion capital of the world, with the most stunning shops filled with exquisite fashion. My friend, who also has an interest in art and fashion commented that being in many of the shops was like visiting small art galleries.
I stay at a hotel beside the central railway station, Hotel Aosta. It is in a convenient position near the Metro making a trip into the centre quick and easy. I usually go to a local bar for breakfast, but on this occasion I thought I would try the hotel. It turned out to be an excellent idea. Breakfast was served on the top floor with a terrace overlooking the magnificent Milano Centrale.
It is only 4 stops on the Metro to the Piazza Duomo, named for the cathedral at its centre.
Beside it is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II the enormous shopping gallery built in 1867. It is filled high fashion brands, cafes and restaurants, a perfect place for coffee, lunch and people watching.
From here my friend and I headed off to the golden triangle, the fashion area bound by Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga and Via Sant’ Andrea. It is also known as the golden rectangle, or Quadriletero d’Oreo if Via Manzoni is included. This is the beating heart of the fashion area. Even if the fashion is more than the budget allows it is a delight to see the beautiful designs displayed in elegant, stylish settings.
Footprints lead to the 2 level Maison Margiela.
The floor is carpet.
Giada is a new design house specialising in cashmere. The assistants proudly showed us their beautiful products.
I was sorely tempted by this tiny red velvet evening bag by Moschino. I will have to be content with a photo.
An almost full moon appeared over the Duomo, marking a perfect end to a fun day.
If you love fashion, Milan is the place to be.