Tendenza
A trend or tendency in fashion. It’s used to describe what is currently in style or what’s predicted to be the next big thing.
Quest’anno la tendenza è il colore verde salvia.
Moda
The Italian word for fashion; encompasses the current style and practice in clothing, footwear, accessories, and even makeup.
La moda italiana è conosciuta in tutto il mondo.
Sfilata di moda
A fashion show or runway. If you’re following major fashion events, you’ll hear this term quite often.
Ho ottenuto due biglietti per una sfilata di moda durante la settimana della moda di Milano.
Stilista
A designer, someone who creates new styles of garments, accessories, or footwear.
Versace è uno stilista molto famoso in Italia.
Taglia
The size of clothing. Knowing your taglia is essential when shopping for clothes in Italy.
Potrei provare questa maglia in una taglia più grande, per favore?
Prova
Fitting or trying on clothes. You would use this term when you want to try on an item in the store.
Dove posso andare per la prova di questi pantaloni?
Outlet
Similar to English, it refers to a retail store where manufacturers sell their stock directly to the public, often at a discount.
Ho trovato un paio di scarpe da designer all’outlet locale.
Saldi
Sales. Everyone’s favorite time to shop when items are discounted.
I saldi estivi iniziano a luglio in Italia.
Boutique
A small specialty shop that sells stylish clothing, jewelry, or other usually luxury goods.
La boutique in centro ha una collezione esclusiva di borse in pelle.
Vetrina
A store window or display. It’s very common to window shop, or “fare vetrina”, in Italian cities.
La vetrina di quel negozio di scarpe cattura sempre la mia attenzione.
Misura
Measure or size, specifically for shoes. It’s important when shopping for the perfect pair of Italian shoes.
Potresti dirmi se queste scarpe sono disponibili nella mia misura?
Accessorio
An accessory, which refers to items like belts, scarves, hats, and jewelry that complement the main items of clothing.
Questo accessorio è perfetto per completare il mio outfit!
Tessuto
Fabric or material of which clothes are made. It’s essential to know the type of tessuto for care and quality purposes.
Preferisco i tessuti naturali come il cotone o la seta.
Collezione
A collection, usually referring to a designer’s seasonal lineup of clothing.
La nuova collezione primavera-estate sarà disponibile a breve.
Learning these Italian terms can help you navigate the fashion scene, whether you’re visiting Italy or just wanting to add a touch of Italian sophistication to your shopping experience. Buono shopping!
