YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR

Relive the atmosphere of a bygone era on an exclusive costume fitting experience. Guests will enjoy a promenade and photo shoot along Venice’s canals dressed up in sumptuously decorated costumes.

The roots of the Venetians’ passion for fashion, opulence and luxury date back hundreds of years. 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.

The expertise of yesteryear’s weavers and tailors keeps inspiring and stimulating creativity today, as you will have the chance to see (and touch!) first hand. You will meet your private assistant in your hotel lobby and begin your day ambling through Venice’s waterways, across fairy tale bridges, to a famous costume atelier, displaying haute couture creations by one of the city’s best-loved and highly esteemed designers. Here beautifully hand-crafted and exquisitely embroidered velvet, damask and silk costumes are created to reproduce period clothing from the 17th century to the early 1900s. The distinctive style of the atelier’s creations results from a unique combination of precious brocades, traditional manufacturing techniques and inventiveness. Masks, accessories, feathers, headpieces and wigs are also available for the joy of collectors and fashion amateurs, alike. A member of staff will give you an introduction to the atelier’s collection and help you select and try on the perfect outfit.

Later, have the best fun you can imagine as you stroll along Venice’s enchanting canals dressed up as Venetian aristocrats. Your professional photographer will ensure the unforgettable moments of a magical Venetian reverie live forever.