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.
I have only been to Milan once although have passed through Milano Centrale many times. I loved walking around looking at the shops- time for another visit I think! Those window displays and interiors look incredible!
By: Paula on October 15, 2022
at 7:30 pm
Milan is full of wonderful things. I need to go there more often.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 15, 2022
at 7:57 pm
Hi Deb, well if you decide to visit Milano again around 22nd March next year, I would love to catch up ?
By: Nadya Tuxworth on October 15, 2022
at 8:57 pm
I will be back in Italy in March, so a visit to Milan is possible. I love the city in winter.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:49 am
We had several days in Milan so loved your fabulous Post. Loved your photos of the Duamo day & night & remembered our strole through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele & La Scala. Your photos of the fashions just fabulous. Would love to go again.
By: Camillus Davall on October 16, 2022
at 8:48 pm
Have not been to Milan. You have shown why I should visit.
By: Jenifer on October 15, 2022
at 9:06 pm
The city is full of beautiful things.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:22 am
Thank you for your wonderful stories, even if i do not get there i
have experienced some places through your eyes. My stay in Bagni di Lucca 2018 now a beautiful memory.
By: Renee Aland on October 15, 2022
at 9:14 pm
I like sharing my travel experiences. Thank you for following.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:23 am
Certainly some interesting colors and fashions. Can understand why you love Milan.
By: Christine Toy on October 15, 2022
at 10:18 pm
The season is colourful, great to brighten winter.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:25 am
I love the bright colours this season. The displays are art pieces as well as the fashions.
By: Kerry & Jim on October 15, 2022
at 11:27 pm
I like the bright colours too, lots to love.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:25 am
Fabulous windows and photos Debra! Thank you.
By: margaretfarrenprice on October 16, 2022
at 12:48 am
We really enjoyed our visit to the gorgeous shops.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:26 am
What a day we had Debra and thanks for showing me around, I’ve been back twice since as there is so much to take in. Hope this comment gets through Roz
By: rozmacallan on October 16, 2022
at 4:43 am
It was fun! I can see why you returned, one day is not enough.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 5:27 am
The Galleria Vitorio Emanuelle is my favorite place in Milan.
By: mulinodominillo on October 16, 2022
at 6:24 am
I can understand why, it is stunning.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 16, 2022
at 6:32 am
I still haven’t visited Milan yet but one day hopefully! We are planning a trip to Italy next year 😀 The clothes are so beautiful and creative.
By: Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella on October 17, 2022
at 6:08 am
Milan is a fabulous city, don’t miss it if you come to Italy.
By: Debra Kolkka on October 21, 2022
at 5:11 am