I’ve been traveling to Milan for Salone del Mobile for a few years now. While the event’s perspective on design changes each year, the one constant is the style of those who travel far and wide to attend. It’s a week dedicated to design—and that doesn’t stop with the interiors. The fashion is nuanced (logos and loud colors are rare), and the strongest looks are often subtly pieced together. Unlike fashion week, Salone is not about being seen—it’s about seeing.
I’m always inspired by street style wherever I travel, but Salone in particular. Here are people who appreciate good design—not because of a brand name or how bold something is—but because of its story, craft, and construction. This mindset is what makes the week special. Here are a few examples of good design on the streets of Milan to inspire your own spring style.
Belt Bag
Utility at its finest—this is going to be a must-have for me when I travel next. Everything is within reach and hands-free. I love how the belt sits at the drawstring of the jacket to accentuate the waist, and is styled with the sweater cuffs peeking out.
Sportswear Smartened Up
With the World Cup coming up, there’s never been a better time to show team spirit, but styled in a way that still feels work-appropriate to get you from office meeting to sports bar hang. I personally love the contrast between something structured and something more relaxed, like a jersey underneath a blazer, to add interest to a look. Bonus points for including unexpected silhouettes or materials.
Pleated Skirts
Mid-length skirts—especially pleated ones—may feel difficult to style and keep contemporary, but pairing them with fun accessories, like a patterned ballet flat or low-slung belt, adds something unexpected and playful to the look, taking it from “school uniform” territory to instant fashion statement. Miucca would certainly approve.
The Coat as the Main Event
A great coat lets you seamlessly move between shifting seasons. It’s there to say something, and to be the hero of your look. I saw so many people wearing statement coats—mostly long colored trench coats and silk coats—thrown over vests and jeans. The simplicity of it caught my eye.
Tailored Trousers
Nothing says ‘power’ quite like a tailored trouser. I’m a big fan of the silhouette: whether high-waisted or low-rise, they’re a daily go-to in my own wardrobe as they allow me to be a little more relaxed on top. I loved seeing a high-waist one with a thin black belt—styled with a knit or with leather—to make the look serious, but not too serious.
The Staple Shirt
The classic shirt a summer must-have—whether fitted or oversized, in cotton poplin or silk—you can wear open, layered, or tucked in. No need to add anything on top; it has enough structure to make a statement on its own. As the weather warmed up in Milan, I loved seeing it styled with relaxed bottoms, like cargo pants and jeans. Easy does it.
