The Gentleman's Guide to Enjoying Milan
Ah, Milan. The esteemed world capital city of men's fashion - people immediately think of the haute couture that goes down there alongside the historical renaissance monuments and landmarks when Milan is mentioned. However, having a holiday plan for the regular Joe or the discerning fellow to nail down is daunting and might require hours of research. However, in this article, we will help you, the distinguished gentlemen, plan what to wear in Milan as you explore and make the most of your time in this beautiful Italian city.
Step 1. Dress more like the locals
This is always solid advice to follow wherever you travel, but in this case, it is a daunting task—after all, Milan is the de facto capital of men's fashion. And it shows just by a cursory stroll to the grocery shop or a cafe—here and there, men of all shapes and social standing do their part in dressing up to the nines, whether they release it or not.
How to pull this off? There are a few pointers you can follow to figure out what to wear in Milan:
Limited colour palette
It may seem like the stereotype that Italians love loud colours to express themselves. Still, the truth is that Milan has a dress code that says: keep it smart, keep it clear and keep it simple. Therefore, they will use neutral colours: Blues, greys, black nudes, and whites. Earthy tones can be worn where needed to complete your outfit.
Include some formal wear in your wardrobe.
Since Milan is the de facto world capital of men's fashion, the locals will take the chance to include their town's wares in their wardrobe. By blending casual and formal wear smartly and quickly, they wow bystanders. Don't be afraid to try out a few articles of formal wear—a blazer, a flat cap, a pair of leather gloves, a knit tie, a waistcoat, or a fashionable scarf could go a long way to add pizazz to your outfit.
Attention to detail
On the same note, pay extra attention to your outfit. Fit is foremost - ensure all your clothes are fitted to your stature (any tailor in town can help you with that). Any changes otherwise should be deliberate, for example, a quirk or tweak to your styling. Feel free to sprinkle accessories here and there to round out your outfit.
Wear chino and linen suits.
Admit it - the weather and climate of Italy generally do not take kindly to wool or anything heavier. People may complain that chino and linen fabrics accumulate wrinkles and creases far too quickly. Still, precisely because of this, they are worn extensively here - it strikes a good balance between "formal clean cut" and "relaxed casual."
If you need to buy a suit while you’re in Milan, these are the best sartorial shops to do so:
Ermenegildo Zegna Via Monte Napoleone, 27, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Carusi Via Monte Napoleone, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Brioni Via Gesù, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Milan Men’s Fashion FAQs
How do men dress in Milan, Italy?
Men in Milan typically dress stylishly and elegantly, often favouring tailored suits, quality fabrics, and well-coordinated accessories.
What to wear as a tourist in Milan?
Opt for smart casual attire such as well-fitted jeans, stylish tops, comfortable yet chic shoes, and a light jacket or blazer. If ever in doubt, dress up.
Are people in Milan fashionable?
Yes, Milan is considered one of the fashion capitals of the world, with residents embracing high-end designer wear and sophisticated street style.
Can you wear trainers in Milan?
Yes, trainers are acceptable in Milan, but only when styled fashionably and worn in casual or smart casual contexts.
Step 2: Visit Milan's Landmarks
To enjoy Milan, one must walk the streets and see its historical landmarks to appreciate its cultural past and present. Here are five (5) must-see sites you need to visit.
Via Carlo Maria Martini, 1
The Duomo is a Gothic cathedral that is the seat of the archbishop of Milan. It was constructed by Giangaleazzo Visconti in 1386. It was completed 600 years later - such as the amount of marble needed. Its construction required dedicated canals to transport all the marble since it is the third-largest cathedral in the world. True Gothic style has a dedicated museum nearby at some of its best.
Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2
This Dominican convent and UNESCO site was completed in 1469. It is best known for housing Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper in red brick confines. For conservation purposes, visits have been restricted to 25 people every 15 minutes. The convent is part of the Museum of Science and Technology of Leonardo da Vinci, where you can also get tickets to see the painting.
La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
While this gallery looks like a neoclassical palace with its splendid glass dome and beautiful interior, it is a commercial venue where famous high-end stores, such as Vuitton and Prada, open shop. Completed in 1877, Italy's oldest shopping arcade is still open today.
La Scala de Milan
Piazza della scala
This is Milan's famous prestigious opera house, inaugurated on 3 August 1778. It has set the stage for many of Italy's greatest opera singers. With a world-class venue and sumptuous interior with 1,987 seats, the opera house has its own museum and theatre school nearby. One can book tickets for shows on its website.
Sforza Castle and associated museums
This is a 15th-century castle built by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, and is famous for being the site of Leonardo Da Vinci's workshops during the Renaissance period. After several expansions, it now accommodates several museums, which are:
The Museum of Ancient Art
The Archaeological Museum of Milan's prehistoric collection
Museum of Decorative Arts
The Egyptian Museum
The Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco
The Museum of Musical Instruments
The Antique Furniture and Wooden Sculpture Museum
You can book tickets to any of the museums on their official website.
Milan Landmark FAQs
What is the most famous landmark in Milan?
The most famous landmark in Milan is the Duomo di Milano, the stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city.
What should you not miss in Milan?
You should not miss seeing Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and exploring the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
What is the most visited place in Milan?
The most visited place in Milan is the Duomo di Milano, a Gothic cathedral that attracts millions of visitors each year.
What is Milan best known for?
Milan is best known for its role as a global fashion capital, its rich cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and "The Last Supper."
Step 3: Eat Authentic Milanese Cuisine
What better way to enjoy Milanese culture than to partake in one of its important facets: its cuisine. Make sure to visit these restaurants for authentic cuisine in town:
Ratanà
www.ratana.it
Via G. de Castillia 28
Run by Cesare Battisti and Federica Fabi, this restaurant showcases a modern interpretation of traditional Milanese and Lombard cooking. Arguably the city's best local cuisine, their bread is also noteworthy and exempt from surcharge. Is vegetarian friendly and will accommodate Gluten Free options.
Latteria di San Marco
Via San Marco 24
A small but busy restaurant featuring homemade traditional Milanese fare which arguably has the best fish in town. Note they have a daily changing menu, be sure to check their menu before making reservations. Vegetarian friendly.
Trattoria del Nuovo Macello
Via. C. Lombroso, 20
trattoriadelnuovomacello.it
A rustic restaurant with old school decor situated right next to a meat market, you will see the quality of their ingredients will not be lacking. Breakfast take away available. Is vegetarian friendly and will accommodate Gluten Free options
La Bettola di Piero
Via Orti 17, 20122 Milan, Italy
Small charming neighbourhood restaurant that serves homemade traditional Milanese food with a smile. Is vegetarian friendly and will accommodate Gluten Free options.
Luini
via Santa Radegonda,16
Historical bakery shop that is famous for their panzerotti (savoury pastry) - arguably their fried or baked panzerotti are the best in town, but they also sell other pastry desserts like chocolate cake, graffe, and pastiera napoletana.
Milanese Food FAQs
What foods is Milan famous for?
Milan is famous for risotto alla Milanese, ossobuco, and cotoletta alla Milanese.
Is Milan a good food city?
Yes, Milan is a good food city, known for its diverse culinary scene that combines traditional Italian dishes with modern gastronomy.
What are traditional foods in Italy?
Traditional foods in Italy include pasta, pizza, risotto, lasagna, polenta, and regional specialties such as Sicilian cannoli and Tuscan ribollita.
Step 4: Shop the local stores for men's fashion
We've compiled this list of places in Milan (not in any particular order) for your sartorial needs, NOT your regular fashion houses like Gucci or Armani that you can find in any other cosmopolitan city. Instead, the entries in this list are those you can only find in Milan and Milan and are recommended for quality.
Via Antonio Scarpa, 9
The originality of this shop's male clothing is noteworthy. Its unique tailoring, polo shirts, and some great knitwear are noteworthy.
Corso Magenta, 13
This shop has a wide array of smartly done traditional men's clothing made from top-notch material. Noteworthy also for their accessories and knitwear
Via S. Marco, 22; Via Fatebenefratelli, 16; Via Celestino IV, 9
This family of tailors may be scattered in separate locations. Still, they are bespoke tailors with a high and friendly reputation. Their shops welcome people to drop by, but it is more convenient for them if you make an appointment first.
Antonio pio Mele
Via Soncino, 3
This is one of the few noteworthy shoemakers in town that aren't mainstream names - Antonio makes traditional and casual shoes and other leather accessories.
Via della Spiga, 17
Another noteworthy shoemaker in town is Rivolta; they sew their shoes using a digital scanner to ensure their custom creations match your feet as closely as possible. It has classic designs with hand-sewn welts and a good range of exotics.
via Petrarca, 7 angolo Vincenzo Monti
Another bespoke shoemaker that makes everything by hand and on-site, although they do have a small range of shoes of impeccable quality that are ready to wear off the shelf
via Belfiore, 9
Recommended for bespoke suits for men, women, and children, they extend their bespoke services to their polo shirts, casual wear, and even uniforms for airlines and clubhouses.
Viale Vittorio Veneto,32
One of the best Milanese shirtmakers, well known for their formal shirts made with top quality materials.
Via Ciovasso 6
Specialising in crocodile leather, Giosa makes briefcases, bags, and other leather accessories. It also offers bespoke services for its products.
via Paolo Sarpi, 19
One of the few unique hatmakers in Milan, Melegari makes traditional hats and sells caps and other ready-to-wear headwear for any occasion.
via Ripamonti, 194
One of Milan's few unique umbrella makers, Francesco Maglia, makes bespoke umbrellas for both men and women and folding umbrellas.
via Lecco 18/A
Bespoke leather gloves for men and women. This shop also has a repair service.
Milan Shopping FAQs
Where is the famous shopping in Milan?
Milan is famous for high-end shopping, particularly in the Quadrilatero della Moda, which includes streets like Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga.
Is shopping in Milan cheap?
No, shopping in Milan is generally not cheap, especially in its renowned fashion districts where luxury brands and designer boutiques dominate.
What is the most famous shopping area in Milan?
The most famous shopping area in Milan is the Quadrilatero della Moda, known for its concentration of luxury fashion boutiques and designer stores.
