Cavalli e Nastri

I remember eyeing the shop window of this little pearl in the heart of Milan for months: Cavalli e Nastri. Going to and from work, in via Brera 2, a delicious vintage, embossed clutch by Chanel would grab my attention for at least a minute. Pink obviously.

I already knew the name, being that I lived in Colonne di San Lorenzo, where the original shops are in via Gian Giacomo Mora 3 (men and antiques) and 12 (women).

One evening, strangely not too late, I get up the courage to go in. As if in grandma’s closet, I have a hard time focusing on the clutch, being attracted by the variety of colors and fabrics, the visual contrasts and the unmistakeable smell of leather. I’d like to stay at least an hour, but it’s closing time so I focus on taking a mental picture of all the details that are worth coming back for.

That way I can take advantage of the weekend to dedicate some time to myself. Here we are again. This time, I go in without looking for anything in particular. There’s an intimate atmosphere. It’s like being at the turn of the century. It could be the music, the designs or the pastel colors. The clutch is still in its usual spot, phew! It’s got me thinking it’s the typical place to look for that unique piece.

Of course, the prices are right up there with the names on the labels: Chanel, Hermès, Saint Laurent, Fendi, Versace, Kenzo, Valentino and last but not least Armani… The list goes on!

If you have a hard time saving up, don’t get discouraged, rumage around in your family heirlooms. Or clean out your closet. If you have special items, unused for years, make a nice clean out and try to offer them up: at Cavalli & Nastri they purchase clothes, costume jewelry and objects from the ’20s til today. Not just for women, obviously. One of the shops in Via Gian Giacomo Mora is exclusively dedicated to men and antiques. If you’re crazy about the bon vivre, dear friends, book it over here! It’s no accident if the biggest names in fashion work with this property and come here for inspiration. But the names are a secret, just like those of the VIP who over the years have chosen this address to be sure they remained unique.

I leave with a Flora Gucci’s scarf from the ’60s. I saved my grandmother’s so well that I’m almost ready for a trade. Be brave, the new year is on our heels and with it the perfect time to make some resolutions… like facing those skeletons in the closet!