subscribe to style file blog via RSSgiannini on rome: la dolce vita par sempre
July 8, 2008 8:24 am
Tonight, Frida Giannini will show Gucci’s Resort 2009 collection, followed by a dinner and party, in her hometown of Rome to celebrate the label’s refurbished boutique on the Via Condotti and the shop’s 70th anniversary in the Eternal City. Here, the designer expounds on what to do, wear, and eat, ahem, when in Rome. See Sarah Mower’s review and all the photos from Gucci’s Resort 2009 show on Style.com tomorrow morning.
When in Rome, what does a Roman do? What are your favorite haunts and things to do in your home city?
I love the fact that you can just walk around and “feel” the city and its history. My favorite places include the Gianicolo Hill—where I have always lived with my family—the Isola Tiberina, the Porta Portese and the Borghetto Flaminio street markets. And when in Rome, it’s great to have a good Roman meal. Trattoria del Cordaro is a small family-run restaurant where I often like to go and order a very typical dish—tagliolini alla gricia.
What does the fashion history of Rome mean to you? Do you remember the days of the Alta Moda when you were young?
Since I was a teenager, the real Alta Moda was already in Paris, so I don’t have any direct memories of the haute couture in Rome. If I have to think of a Roman designer, though, the most emblematic and prestigious one is the legendary Roberto Capucci.
Who are the Roman style icons?
Definitely Monica Vitti in Antonioni’s films. In “L’Eclisse,” she was magnificent and truly beautiful.
Define the essence of Roman style, for women and men.
Romans in general have an easy-going attitude, similar to me—in a way, to the Parisian nonchalance. In Rome, people “live” in the streets and their style is very much influenced by the sun and the nearby sea. In fact, Romans love to wear colors and mix different pieces.
Does that feed into your ideas for Gucci? Do you think the dolce vita still exists?
Of course it feeds into my ideas. I’m inspired by everything that surrounds me. Rome especially has given me the warmth and positive spirit when creating my collections. The dolce vita will forever exist in Rome. It’s in the air, in the people; it’s a way of being and enjoying life.
When you finally get away for summer, where will you go? And what are you packing?
This summer I will run to Sabaudia, on the seaside, just south of Rome. I’ll be packing light, of course: bathing suits, straw hats, light flowy dresses, sandals, sunscreen, and a good book.
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