Bella Figura
An excellent description of Bella Figura is to be found in the delightful mystery novel Auntie Poldi and the Sicilian Lions by Mario Giordano. The author notes that an Italian male, especially a Sicilian, “...can endure anything with fatalism and Bella Figura. The basic equipment includes a well-groomed, unostentatiously fashionable appearance, a pair of good shoes and the right make of sunglasses. Above all, though, bella figura means always looking good, never foolish. It also means you don’t embarrass your fellow men. Impatience is unacceptable and direct confrontations are taboo. You share restaurant bills with your friends, don’t put your foot in it, never receive guests in a dirty or untidy home, ask no intimate questions…bring some dessert when you are invited to dinner. You put your faith in beauty and proportionality and try to make the world a better place. Sometimes you even succeed.”
You might guess that the book’s main character, Auntie Poldi, takes a keen and literal interest in a particular someone’s bella figura. But never mind about that right now. We’re considering a lingerie version of the credo: beauty for its own sake, inside and out. That is the joy of wearing silk and lace pieces from couture design house Emma Harris. Matchable and mixable, they allow you to create your own combinations of bras, camisoles, slips, robes, and PJ sets. Start with the Rochelle Lime Lingerie Set. Add the Slip. They will carry you through the day and into the evening with their inner and outer “rightness.”
Add a simple dress. We recommend the black Wool Sweater Dress from Aromatique. Made in one forgiving size, it fits each of us in its own way. Reversible too, with a cutout to wear front or back. And a side slit. For casual perfection, give some kick with stocking from Pierre Mantoux. Shine your shoes.
It is relaxing to consistently show your best. You honor yourself and those around you. Somehow, it is easy to get into the habit. Like reaching for the ultimate in lingerie from Jane’s Vanity.