Details
The Italian word sprezzatura, effortless grace, was coined by Baldassare Castiglione in his 16th century The Book of the Courtier. He defines it as “a certain nonchalance” that conceals any calculation. The Milanese have perfected this casualness. Women flashed by in light summer dresses, with elegant bags, and the surprise of velvet slippers in various yummy shades of red (offset by an anklet). Fab sunglasses and gold jewelry offset the uniform of a long skirt, tight tee, and tennis shoes. Always a waltzing step, a sweep of healthy highlighted hair.
So, Jane and Emily, where do we begin? For a shock of casual nonchalance, it has to be the new black Wool Sweater Dress from Aromatique. We might stop even Milanese traffic in this easy flowing garment that clings just right. And shows a cutout at neck (or at back, because the dress is reversible!). Either way, it would complement such scintillating details as the Lacy Vino Leather Gloves from Karma (which we covet!). Or the Gisel B freshwater pearl Margaret earrings. Or a pair of embellished black net socks from Pierre Mantoux.
Details begin with a memorable bra that isn’t quite hidden by an eye-popping undershirt: the saturated blue silk and mesh of Emma Harris’s Astri Lingerie Set, for instance. Or, beneath a sheer blouse, such as the Brigitte Lavallière from FrancesKa, what better way to begin than with the strappy black outline of Yuvi Kawano’s Noontide Bralette Set? Someone will be watching.
Thinking back to Milan, we sense that the beauties passing by were mentally drifting into the next season. And had, perhaps, already acquired the one or two statement pieces that would define their fall/winter wardrobes. What will it be for us? To capture the theme of red velvet, we would choose Gilda & Pearl’s Frankly My Dear Dress and Midi Robe in lustrous raspberry. To wear creatively, beneath coats and wraps, mingled with camisoles and sweaters. We’d feel a bit sprezzatura, because such assured pieces make everything else look easy (and it will be).
Jane’s Vanity’s beautiful details take us far. Perhaps to Milan.