It’s no secret that if you’re seeking stylish threads or expertly crafted furniture, there’s nowhere like Italy. Like French wine or Swedish pop music, Italian artisanship is admired around the world, with people travelling great distances in search of treasures adorning that much-coveted “Made in Italy” label. If you’re looking to stock up on true Italian craftsmanship, skip the shiny designer boutiques on Milan’s Milan’s Via Monte Napoleone.
Located just one hour from Europe’s fashion capital, the city of Bergamo is home to the region’s most respected artisans and fashion designers, selling everything from cashmere knitwear and handmade jewellery to one-of-a-kind trinkets from their family-run bottegas. Here’s a round-up of some of the best shopping hotspots to get you started. Just be sure to pack an extra suitcase.
The one for luxury threads
Sabrina, who runs La Bottega Di Nonna Betta with her sister, designs everything herself
Run by two stylish sisters, La Bottega Di Nonna Betta in historic Città Alta is the place for high-quality cashmere garms. Handsewn by local expert knitters, the store offers a colourful range of dresses, sweaters and scarves, all of which are designed by sister Sabrina (above). She even finishes each item with a handwritten label with a loving message for each customer to take home. Now that’s service.
Via Bartolomeo Colleoni, 3, 24129 Bergamo
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The one for hand-crafted jewellery
One look at his work and you’d be surprised to hear that Luciano Lezzi manages to create those impressive delicate curves without the fancy technological aids you’d find in most studios. Swing by his workshop Dessel, where he’s been making classic rings, necklaces and other delectable charms with old school methods for over 30 years and bag a gem for that special someone.
Via Borgo Canale, 6A, 24129 Bergamo
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