A native of Italy’s north-western city La Spezia, Italo Zucchelli’s career was born in Milan. With stints at Romeo Gigli and Jil Sander, his love for the fashion capital never wavered — even after relocating to New York in 2004, when Calvin Klein himself tapped him to head up the brand’s menswear division. Here, Zucchelli, who left Calvin Klein in April, shares some insider tips on Milan.
FAVORITE THING: I have good friends in Milan. And I like the understated elegance of the city. You have to discover [it]. It’s not in your face. A lot of the beauty is hidden. It’s also a very efficient and dynamic city, where people can accomplish things and have a good quality of life.
LEAST FAVORITE THING: Sometimes, especially in the winter, it can be very gray. Gray is the Milan color.
MUST DO: Enjoy the Duomo di Milano, the most beautiful example of gothic architecture in the world in my opinion. The Brera area, where the city morphs into a sort of a village with nice, curious stores and alleys. And the Navigli area, where I used to live. Especially in [spring and summer], it is very alive and vibrant. But most of all, enter courtyards and discover hidden places that you didn’t even know existed.
MUST SEE: I know it’s cliche, but go and see The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece. When you see it in person, it’s really something you won’t forget. The Prada Foundation is an amazing gift to the city, with its beautiful display of fantastic art in a masterfully designed and created space.
WHERE TO EAT: I love the Giacomo Arengario restaurant because of the delicious food, the beautiful view of the Duomo, and the great memories.
WHERE TO CHILL: I like the Castello Sforzesco park. But a drink with friends in one of the very Milanese chic bars — maybe on a sunny summery evening — is always a chill out treat for me. It’s a very Italian tradition that I always enjoy when I am in Italy.
BEST STREET STYLE: During the Salone del Mobile, in April, where the city is bursting with energy, and parties and openings are everywhere. That’s when you see a very interesting mix of styles and people of all nationalities mingling and doing business in a very pleasant and happy atmosphere.
ON MISSING MILAN: My friends, the food, the aperitivo ritual. But in reality, I have been so consistent in going [to Milan] that I never have the chance to really miss it.
