Milan Style Guide

Milan is famously known as THE city of fashion, and there are societal norms for dressing in Milan. I chose Milan specifically because of the fashion scene. Compared to other cities I’ve traveled to in Europe, I would say Milan is the one I’ve seen with the most diversity in style. People care about what they wear, and they are looking and judging what you’re wearing. To avoid looking like an outsider, here are some style tips and norms I’ve noticed from living in Milan. 

1. Don’t wear athleisure—Italians take pride in their style, so you most likely will never see anyone wearing joggers or sweatshirts. I have not seen anyone except high school teenagers wearing joggers, and even that is rare. Grocery runs don’t call for frumpy clothes.
2. Cropped isn’t a thing. Most clothes aren’t revealing, which I wasn’t really surprised by, considering how traditional Italy is. Most clothing is well-fitting and doesn't show your midriff.
3. Black boots are a staple here—Even the kids rock Chelsea boots.
4. Italians dress for the season, not the weather. Milan has hit 60 degrees, and in my mind, that’s short-sleeved or light sweater weather. When I walked outside and saw people still in puffers and knee-length coats, I was in shock. I was burning up with light layers on the walk to the train, and once on the train. If it’s 70 degrees and under, people will still wear a jacket. Italians will look at you strangely if you aren’t wearing a jacket. As someone from the Midwest, I know this weather does not call for a puffer; two layers will be fine, but I still wear a jacket to blend in.
5. Typical color palette: black, grey, white, and red. I can confidently say that this is Milan's general color palette.
6. Scarves—Bring one or wear one.
7. Baseball caps aren’t a thing—This is a dead giveaway that you’re a tourist, especially when you wear one inside.
8. Trench Coat—A general European fashion trend. A stylish alternative to a puffer coat. I would recommend a good quality trench in Europe, its a piece that never goes out of style. 

My personal favorite shopping places:

1. Bershka—If Urban Outfitters and Garage had a baby, it would be Bershka. Their style profile is more of an edgier street style. I am almost always anti-fast fashion and limit my shopping at big corporations, but Bershka is the one place where I’m willing to make an exception. They are on top of and sometimes ahead of trends. They are great if you want the perfect baggy jeans, well-fitting basic tops, and dresses.
2. Navigli Market—I found two great pairs of boots there. So many people I know have bought at least one thing from there. There are some smaller clothing stands, especially once the weather starts getting warmer, but I would recommend looking for cheap jewelry from here.
3. Surplus and Humana Vintage—Thrifting isn’t a big thing in Milan, unfortunately. However, Surplus and Humana are curated second-hand shops that are the closest thing to that. The price point is comparable to the lower side of Depop, but of course, things like shoes, jeans, and jackets are priced higher. Humana always has sales, so keep looking for that, especially around seasonal changes.