Ask A Stylist: OTT Italian Glamour, Styling Silk Stripes & Packing Tips For Frequent Flyers

Real style queries from my subscribers, answered by yours truly.

I have a black tie wedding in Tuscany in early September and the vibe I’m getting from mutual friends is that everyone is going OTT but I’m struggling to find something I love.

I love a black tie invitation because it sets clear boundaries - OTT Italian glamour! Short of wearing a full-length white dress, you won’t be overdressed. Many people still feel the urge to dress ‘classic’ when it comes to black tie but with the rolling Tuscan hills and beautiful architectural villas, you shouldn’t play it safe. Think elegance, opulence and structured shapes in decadent fabrics. The series ‘Palm Royale’ based on the 1960s comes to mind as a good reference with old Hollywood bejewelled tones, silk chiffon capes and fringing with cascading neck ties. The last time I attended a Tuscan wedding I wore a full-length ACNE one shouldered dress in a washed navy silk with a low back that I would happily wear again. These more formal dresses don’t date and you’d be prudent to have a few in the wardrobe for events. While renting is fabulous for events in the city, it’s much harder when you travel abroad for a longer stint.

Taller Marmo’s design classic Mrs Ross in ocean blue

I would recommend Italian label Taller Marmo as a go-to brand here. More of a dressmaker than a fashion label, the pieces are made in small quantities by artisans in Italy. By eschewing trends, they’ve managed to make transatlantic pieces that are so beautiful, you’ll keep them forever. A design favourite is the Mrs Ross (inspired by the one and only Diana) made from a sleek viscose-blend crepe cady, fully trimmed with tonal soft fringes, and featuring a scarf-style high neckline. The new ocean blue tone would be stunning with silver or white accents. Luckily, this time of year you can find some seasonal colours on sale. This deep ‘peony’ pink shade is better than 50% off!

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I recently inherited a beautiful navy and white silk striped vintage dress of my late aunts. Any ideas how to style it for this summer so it feels more modern?