Fashion in Milan

Discover why prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear) was born in Milan.

Are you a fashionista who would like to shop and find ultra-cool boutiques?

Discover Haute Couture (High Fashion) Ateliers and Fashion Showrooms.

Would you like to see the work preceding the weaving of a fabric?

Discover an historical craft workshop where they manufacture luxury bags and accessories.

Would you like to go to a Fashion Show?

Retail experiences.

Milan is unquestionably Italy’s fashion capital. This is where fashion designers work, where they hold their shows, where you find showrooms, model and advertising agencies. Book your private guided tour now

If Paris is the capital of the haute couture and New York that of sportswear, the city that is considered the leader in the sector of the prêt-à-porter is Milan.

Fashion in Milan goes back to the medieval time when the city was famous for woollen weaving, but a great boost was given during the time of the Duke Filippo Maria Visconti, namely around 1442, when silk-producing firms were founded and financed by wealthy members of the Milanese establishment. Evidence of it are the gorgeous fabrics worn by the ruling class visible in the paintings of that time. The fabric was a status symbol.

I conceive and plan private guided experiences whose aim is to focus on various aspects of the fashion system. Examples?

• What is the difference between prêt à porter (ready-to-wear) and Haute couture (high fashion)? Who is the première and what role does she play in an haute couture tailoring?
• The Quadrilatero della Moda, Fashion District, is home to historic tailor’s shop, Italian and International fashion houses. Nevertheless, there are other chic neighbourhoods in Milan to explore in search of tailor-made clothes, artisan creations that lend greatness to Made in Italy.

A journey into the art of fashion carried out by a fashion consultant and personal shopper who is an art historian as well. Contact Barbara Quarello now

It is a close-up look at some of the most innovative and trend-setting showrooms, where you can buy apparel, scarves, accessories, bags, shoes, for you or for superb gifts. 

Last but not least, each of my private guided walking tour has historical-artistic-architectural content too, because whatever monument or palace or courtyard we will be seeing on the way could be explained and commented if you wish.

Duration: 4 or 8 hours.

Each tour is completely customized.