Here's what she makes time for during fashion week.
Time is tight between fashion week shows, but that doesn't mean W fashion director, Rickie De Sole, doesn't try and absorb as much as she can of Milan while she's there. She manages to squeeze in breakfast at one of the city's oldest cafes, vintage shopping in the Brera district, and a bowl of pappardelle al telefono for dinner before she leaves. Here are De Sole's top things to do, see and eat during Milan fashion week.
Grand Hotel et de Milan for the location. The hotel sits just at the top of Via Montenapoleone in the heart of Milan.
I call housekeeping for extra hangers and start unpacking—I don't feel settled until I've unpacked.
Grand Hotel et de Milan.
Four Seasons Hotel Milano is my go-to, where I stick to my trusty cappuccino and a bowl of fresh berries.
Bar Luce inside the Fondazione Prada—it's a fun place to stop and the service is fast (not easy to find in Milan!). In the evening, I stick to the Italian classics: Da Giacomo, where I order the branzino; Giacomo Bistrot, a cozy spot that feels like you're in someone's library (I love the risotto); Bice, near my hotel, for the insalata tropicale (salad with avocado, hearts of palm and artichokes) and their famously indulgent pappardelle al telefono; and Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone, which is great during September shows as you can sit outside in the courtyard. By the end of the week I usually need a break from Italian food and end up at Nobu for sushi.
The entrance to Pasticceria Marchesi.
Do you have a workout routine while you’re on the road?
It's so important to take some personal time to work out in the morning before the manic day begins. Christina Curry, an American yoga instructor in Milan, has a studio but will also come to your hotel room.
Museo del Novecento, right in Piazza del Duomo. It's a fantastic museum dedicated to 20th century art.
10 Corso Como (and the nearby outlet). I always end up buying something at Prada, too. That said, my friends have given me the nickname "Duty Free De Sole" because I love a duty free shop and often find great sales. I kill most of my time in the airport wandering around shopping and buying magazines.