SHOPAHOLIC

Enjoy a tailor-made shopping tour with your private fashion expert. You will drop in at Venice’s best-loved boutiques and discover why the city boasts such an outstanding reputation as a shoppers’ paradise.

You may not know that during the Renaissance Venetian nobles used to spend huge amounts of their fortunes on clothing to the extent that the city’s officials decided to introduce sumptuary laws with the aim of preserving economic stability. Clothing was used as a display of grandeur and social status and restrictions were put in place because reckless spending on fashion inhibited prospective marriage proposals as families could no longer afford to fund adequate dowries. However, fashion was also essential to Venice’s economy and the city dominated the textile industry for over two hundred years. Venice was renowned for the production of quality textiles that were in high demand throughout Europe. From the 13th to the 16th centuries the city was a major player in the creation of silk and velvet and also produced wool, cotton and lace.

Footwear fans might also like to know that the art of shoemaking in Venice is an age-old tradition dating back to the 13th century when the Scuola dei Calegheri was created. In the 15th and 16th centuries stilt-like shoes known as chopine began claiming the city’s first fashion victims inducing women to wobble unsteadily on 20 inch high soles – although they did prevent hems from getting wet and dirty when the canals flooded.

This personal shopping experience is led by a professional fashionista and can be tailored to suit all needs and budgets. Send us your shopping wish list and we’ll create a customised “Made in Italy” itinerary just for you. Looking for a pair of gloves? A Murano-glass item? An outfit for an upcoming special event? Precious jewellery for your partner? Or just some prezzies to take back home? From haute couture boutiques to vintage shops, from artisan ateliers to popular clothing stores, your fashion expert will give you tips on where to find the perfect item.

First-time visitors might want to wander down Calle Larga XXII Marzo, Venice’s most popular shopping street where famous brands such as Gucci, Ferragamo, Chanel and Burberry can be found. But don’t miss the opportunity to discover the city’s artisan shops tucked away along its hidden canals. Highlights might include a mask atelier, a Murano glass jeweller’s, a period dress tailor and a lace store.

Your personal shopper will provide you with style advice and give you the latest on fashion industry secrets, newest looks and upcoming trends.