Florence’s history dates back to 59 BC, filled with narratives from the past. Once a Roman military colony, the cobbled streets and Arno River saw wars before Florence emerged temporarily as the country’s capital. Modern Florence, however, is more about artistry, honoring traditions while also moving the region forward. Inside shop doors, artists are hard at work hammering gold, placing stones, and sewing garments. In addition to the fashion houses built on convention, there are smaller operations working in a way most cities aren’t used to.
These hammering needles and working hands are the backbone of Florentine style. From the leather sourced from the far reaches of the region to the metals worked into buckles and earrings, if you listen closely, the hum of these busy artists is the soundtrack of the city.
The Fashion of Florence
The Gucci Museum is a haven for fashion enthusiasts for many reasons. Not only is the Florentine brand iconic with its equestrian details and local leather, but the museum (located in the same piazza as the statue of David) houses rotating exhibits that pay homage to Gucci’s founding family, including gigantic and vibrant tapestries depicting its origin story and recognizable pieces worn by fashion icons before they were set onto mannequins throughout the museum’s three floors.
The museum store, however, is the crown jewel for Gucci fans, housing pieces you can only buy from this single location.
Several other designers and fashion houses have gotten their start in Florence including Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci, Roberto Cavalli, and Stefano Ricci. Flagship locations span Via de’Tornabuoni, a premier luxury avenue in the city.
It’s not only the big names garnering attention though. Florentine leather is amongst the most notable exports from the city. There are tourist shops on every corner selling colorful leather bags and accessories, but the real stuff doesn’t come from there, or the open-air markets. Instead, search out local treasures including places such as Pelletteria Artigiana Viviani and Pierotucci. Many goods are made on site where storefronts double as workshops and you can see the artists as they sew.
Another favorite is Il Merlo (translation: the blackbird), created by Kyoko Morita who studied in Kyoto before relocating to Italy in 2013 to work in Florentine leather. Her bags are simple and chic yet playful in their design, considerably more affordable than a Gucci bag without lacking quality.
At Studioteca, several artisans sell their wares from clothing to jewelry to home goods. At Labi, the artist is hard at work behind the register sewing handbags and crocheting women’s clothing in between customers.
Handmade jewelry is another popular export, but you can do more than purchase it. Some experiences allow for hands-on workshops where metalsmiths teach you the ins and outs of jewelry design, sending you home with a hand-made piece after class.
Another experience is making your own perfume. Olfactory experiences celebrate the practice rooted in Renaissance history. Aquaflor Firenze is one of the more known options, offering perfume blending workshops in its historic setting where the retail is just steps from the factory.
One of the best ways to explore the vast network of artisans throughout Florence is through a tour, because it’s nearly impossible to find these hidden gems on your own. Italy Charme hosts luxury, personalized individual experiences where you choose where you want to shop. From silk scarves to vintage items, the itinerary is customized to fit your personal style and can include everything from small productions to high-end fashion houses.
Ancient Architecture
The style of Florence exists beyond the obvious, showing up in the buildings that date back to the sixth century. From Renaissance to Baroque, you’ll spy grand estates and ornate piazzas.
Some of the most striking buildings are made in the Florentine Romanesque style, using geometric patterns and green, pink, and white hues. These buildings look almost like paper doll houses, like a façade instead of a complete building, and the final effect is breathtaking. One of the most popular is the Florence Cathedral, an iconic piece of the Florentine skyline that can be viewed from Piazzale Michelangelo Square. And the Piazza Santa Croce has another prime example, a short walk to the carousel in Piazza Repubblica.
There are also dramatic Italian gothic buildings, dating mostly between the 13-14th centuries, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence’s main duomo. This is perhaps the most popular building to enter within Florence, with long lines wrapping around the cathedral if you didn’t purchase a skip-the-line pass. If you prefer to admire it from afar, grab a spritz on the outdoor patio of one of the square’s central restaurants.
Dining in Style
No visit to Florence is complete without immersing yourself in the culinary culture. Pasta, vino, gelato, repeat. Oh, and don’t forget the Florentine steak.
Gunè is a Michelin restaurant in the San Frediano neighborhood serving up an intense menu of gourmet specialties. Small courses make up a meal with whimsical presentations and flavor-packed bites. The taste is only rivaled by the presentation as bread is served in tiny drawers and desserts in sets of three bite-sized morsels. The meal is clearly one meant to be enjoyed over a languid evening aside plenty of wine before bursting out onto the streets to find your next adventure.
For that Florentine steak, however, Trattoria del Carmine just down the road is the superior choice. Ordered by the gram and easily split amongst diners, the thick cut is served rare.
Regardless of how you choose to immerse yourself in Florence’s unique culture, you’ll undoubtedly be doing it in style. The romantic city offers new discoveries around every corner, each with a distinct allure only Italy can possess.
Florentine leather is amongst the most notable exports from the city.
Gunè is a Michelin restaurant in the San Frediano neighborhood serving up an intense menu of gourmet specialties.