A Designer's Guide to Shopping in Milan

Italian street-style stars Giorgia Tordini and Gilda Ambrosio founded Attico just two years ago. Now 140 stockists, including the Australian luxury department store Harrolds, carry their silk robes and slip dresses. Here, they suggest chic must-buys in their home city. Compiled by Vanessa Lawrence.

The Most Stylish Milan Souvenirs, According to Giorgia Tordini and Gilda Ambrosio

Fashion from Vintage Delirium by Franco Jacassi

Hidden in a Milanese palazzo in the Brera neighbourhood is one of Milan’s best vintage fashion boutiques, which stocks a smart edit of classic designer pieces at reasonable prices. “Lovers of YSL, in particular, will find stunning dresses, shirts and belts from the ’70s and ’80s in mint condition,” says Gilda.

Books from Armani/Libri

Giorgia confesses to spending hours at this haven of fashion and design literature situated at the entrance of the Armani flagship store on Via Alessandro Manzoni in Brera. “You can find books and prints in both English and Italian for every budget, from pocket-sized books for €5 [about $8] to limited editions costing thousands.” It’s an intimate and modern space that speaks to Milan’s reputation as the style capital of the world.

Perfumed paper from Santa Maria Novella

One of the oldest pharmacies in the world, this gem in Brera is packed with heady potions, cosmetics, soaps and creams. The Attico duo loves the Armenia paper soaked in resins and oriental spices. “Keep it in your closet to perfume your clothing,” suggests Giorgia.

Coffee cup set by Richard Ginori 1735

Among the earliest established porcelain manufacturers in Europe, Richard Ginori 1735 is now under the creative direction of Gucci’s Alessandro Michele. Gilda says a handpainted coffee cup and saucer will “bring a touch of Italianness to your table”.

Curios for men by G. Lorenzi

“This is where the style set goes for travel cases and toiletries,” says Gilda of the Larusmiani boutique, on Via Monte Napoleone, which stocks 20,000 G. Lorenzi items. The list includes gifts for the discerning gentleman, such as luxe shaving brushes and cufflink boxes.