TWEAKS+inspiration: Bella Italian Fashion

Buongiorno! Just back from 3 weeks in France and Italy. Last week, we looked at some "men/women on the street" photos I snapped in France. Eventually, we made our way, via train, to Milan, Florence and Rome. As for the above photo, what I'd like to know is what's in those orange bags. Let's take a look at what style I could capture on the streets. It was everywhere!

Even in the Firenze train station, travelers are stylish.

We walked through Milano's Brera district, home of the University of Milan and 20 € (US $23) made-in-Italy wool sweaters. A young woman carries a LV Speedy bag. Italy has very strict laws against counterfeit bags. Tourists caught purchasing fake product can be fined up to US$10,000 and authorities do enforce the law.

Walking the streets in magical Rome.

At a Florence latte break, we sat next to this woman. It's a toss up on who wears scarves best - the French or Italians?

A view from the hop on-hop off bus. Both couples have to be Italians visiting Rome. Perfection!

Near our hotel in Rome, we walked through something being filmed. Who's that woman in the orange coat?

A business woman spied from our taxi on Via Nazionale in Rome. Wondering about her pant length but don't you love seeing a palazzo pant in Italy?

We were having a morning break at an outdoor cafe at the end of Via Condotti, Rome's luxury fashion street. Nearby, this young woman was waiting for her boyfriend (who later pulled up in a red Ferrari). I couldn't take it any longer so I walked over to ask her if I could take her photo. "Of course!" and then she posed for me. This leather suit was so buttery and drapped beautifully. And did you notice her matching handbag?

I think it's an iconic Bottega Veneta -the Andiamo Clutch in barolo. Andiamo means "Let's Go" in Italian. US $3,500 with free shipping. I had to google the color "barolo." Barolo translates to a dry, full-bodied red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, often called the "king of wines" for its rich flavor and aging potential." Bella borsetta!

We were intrigued by these two Romans - and had never ever seen a hairstyle like this.

My friend Ellin gave me some spare euros to spend on my trip. How fun was that? I bought an Italian scarf and a gray leather bag. (I promise it doesn't look green in real life. ) I saw many women wearing a crossbag lower on the body which is what I plan to do. Thank you, Ellin!

When we walked one of the two high fashion streets in Milan, we came upon the perfect little Fiat to see on such a street. In the race for most stylish street fashion - French or Italian - I'm giving the edge to the Italians. Enjoy your Sunday and here's to a wonderful Thanksgiving! I am especially thankful to you, DEAR readers.

PS - The electric Fiat Topolino's top speed is 28 mph, is not available in North America and retails for € 9890 (US$11,461).