Italian Fashion Through the Ages: Dressing So Chic

Italian fashion designers are renowned and adored throughout the world for their cutting-edge styles and exquisite, incredibly wearable designs. Can anyone else except Italians produce breath-taking wearable art? Italy first became known historically as a desirable fashion source or role model in the 1000s. Although the year is difficult to pronounce, Italians are known for being a difficult act to follow because they are credited with launching the Renaissance. The Renaissance was a time of nostalgia and is remembered for the resurrection of the arts and the classical era, which coincided with the emergence of Christianity. At this time, there were numerous Greek, Roman, and Oriental cultural and artistic influences.

The Italian flair for fashion became the most well-known in all of Europe as a result of all of these influences. For several more centuries, Italy held the top spot for fashion in Europe, evolving from being Queen Catherine de' Medici's preference to being modeled after the works of Michelangelo or Raphael, among other popular Italian painters. The rich fabrics and embellishments utilized in the designs, as well as the accessories that either went with the clothes or were intended to be used with it, all contributed to the appeal of these looks. Brocade, gems, or velvet were used to adorn objects, which may be clothing such as dresses, shoes, robes, fabric, or jewelry, or it could be anything ornate or gorgeous. In the 1400s, skirts were frequently designed to reveal another outfit hidden beneath them by using dramatic pleating or gathering. Up to a time in the 1950s when the Italian designers once more distinguished out, French competition had surpassed them by the 1600s. Designers of the 1950s included Giovanni Giorgini, whose fashion presentation in Florence, Italy in February 1951 successfully repositioned Italians at the top of Europe's popular list.

In the 1900s and beyond, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Christina Aguilera, Victoria Beckham, and Lady Diana, Princess of Wales were some of the most well-known fashion stars who wore Italian clothing. Peter Sellers and even singer Elton John were famous guys who wore Italian clothing brands. Italy's fashion capital cities formerly included Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome, or Vicenza. Over time, however, the focus has shifted mostly to Rome, Florence, and Milan, with Rome and Milan currently holding the top positions. One of the most well-known Italian designers and their respective brands among celebrities are Armani, Bulgari, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Prada, and Gucci. Giorgio Armani is the designer of high-end clothing, cosmetics, fragrances, and even eyewear. Jewelry, purses, watches, and accessories are all made by Bulgari. Versace is known for its high-end apparel, home goods, and cosmetics. Dolce & Gabbana sells apparel and eyewear and has a tendency toward an urban aesthetic. Gucci's product lines include bags, clothes, shoes, and a variety of items with unique fabric treatments. In addition to designer clothing, shoes, and accessories, Prada excels in headgear. Italian fashion has always been a sought-after item and a symbol of prestige, and it continues to be a major influence on all other designers today.