Italy's sales season doesn't kick off until the second or even third week of January. So, where should you be to snag the best deals? We'll guide you through the fashion capitals of Rome and Milan. If a weekend shopping spree in Italy isn’t feasible, fret not—online sales start as early as July 1st for the Summer Sales or December 26 for the Winter Sales, offering a plethora of options.
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When to Shop?
The sales season traditionally begins with discounts of around 30% in the second week of January, gradually increasing to as much as 70% by February. This is the perfect time to explore Italy's outlet centers, which become havens for fashion enthusiasts seeking significant savings.
How to Get the Best Deals?
While sales are widespread, the prestigious fashion houses like Loro Piano and Bottega Veneta maintain a low profile during this period. The reason? They often hold exclusive, invitation-only sales events for employees and loyal customers before the general sale begins. These events are fiercely competitive and offer discounts ranging from 50% to 70%, making them worth the effort if you can secure an invitation.
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, major Italian brands offer selections on platforms like Luisa Via Roma, Yoox, and Forzieri. For luxury lingerie, La Perla is a go-to. Starting July 1st or December 26, Luisa Via Roma provides access to a curated selection of designer apparel, shoes, and accessories from renowned collections by Balmain, Chloe, Christian Louboutin, Dior, and more, alongside avant-garde designers like Peter Pilotto and Gareth Pugh. The store, a Florence icon since the 1930s, continues to be a cornerstone of Italian fashion.
Where to Shop in Rome?
Rome's shopping scene is centered around vibrant streets such as Piazza di Spagna, Via del Babuino, and Via del Corso. For those in search of charming boutiques, Via del Governo Vecchio is a treasure trove. The historic Borgo Pio district, with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, offers an authentic Italian shopping experience. Here, Via Borgo Pio is the main shopping artery, and the area is known for its gourmet markets like the renowned Castroni delicatessen on Via Cola di Rienzo, a favorite among expats for its wide array of Italian specialties.
Shopping in Milan
Milan, a global fashion hub, boasts illustrious shopping streets like Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga, and Corso Venezia, home to designer boutiques such as Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Versace. For a more mainstream shopping experience, head to Via Vittorio Emanuele and Corso Buenos Aires, where you'll find popular brands and department stores like La Rinascente. The Brera and Corso di Porta Ticinese districts are ideal for discovering unique boutiques offering trendy clothes and accessories.
Fashion enthusiasts should not miss Il Salvagente, one of Milan's most famous outlets. Nestled on Via Fratelli Bronzetti, it features three floors of high-end brands for men and women, meticulously organized by size and color. For children's fashion, visit Salvagente Bimbi on Via Balzaretti. Additional shopping hotspots include the streets around Corso Vercelli, Corso Magenta, and the trendy Isola district near Garibaldi Station.
