There was a time when a "good" Italy trip meant rushing from one famous site to the next. The Colosseum in the morning, Florence by evening, Venice the next day. At La Peninsula, we have watched that idea slowly disappear, and honestly, it makes sense. Today's travelers want something deeper, something they will actually remember. That is why more people are now choosing slow luxury travel in Tuscany , and it is changing the way the world travels. The Problem With Fast Sightseeing Fast travel has a cost that rarely shows up on the itinerary. You arrive home with hundreds of photos and very few real memories. You have seen things, yes, but you have not truly felt them. This is the core tension at the heart of modern tourism: volume versus depth. Over the years, overcrowded landmarks have become less about discovery and more about performance. Standing in a long queue at a famous gallery, rushing through a vineyard with thirty other strangers, or spending forty minutes in a medieval village because the schedule says so, these are not experiences. They are checkboxes. And increasingly, people are putting the checklist down. What Slow Tourism Is Slow tourism is not about doing less. It is about being more present in what you do. The idea is simple: instead of visiting five places in five days, what if you truly lived in one place for a week? That could mean waking up without an alarm in a farmhouse surrounded by olive groves. Spending a morning at a local market, learning which mushrooms are in season from the woman who picked them. Sitting through a four-hour lunch with no rush, then walking through vineyards as the afternoon sun turns golden. This kind of travel does not drain you. It actually brings you back to life. Why Tuscany Is the Natural Home of This Movement Tuscany has a quiet kind of magic, but you can only feel it when you slow down. The rolling hills, the cypress roads, the old stone villages. None of it truly lands when you are watching it from a bus window. It takes stillness. It takes patience. Slow travel in Tuscany works because the region was never in a hurry. Farmers follow the seasons. Winemakers walk their vines by hand. Sunday lunch runs deep into the afternoon. Stay long enough, and you start to feel it too. That is why slow luxury travel in Tuscany keeps drawing travelers who tried the fast version and come home feeling like they missed something. The real luxury is not just a beautiful room. It is how deeply you experience a place and the people you meet along the way. What Experiential Tourism Looks Like Travelers today are not looking for group tours and cooking demos. They want real experiences. A private morning walking the vineyard with the winemaker. Making pasta by hand in a village kitchen. A truffle hunt in the autumn forest, or a hot-air balloon ride over Chianti that ends with a breakfast made from local ingredients. These are the moments people actually remember. No photo can replace them. Where people stay has changed, too. Restored stone villages, private villas with organic gardens, and family-run farms. Not just a place to sleep, but a full part of the experience itself. The Best Slow Travel Tuscany Itinerary: A Simple Framework The best slow travel Tuscany itinerary is built around staying, not moving. Pick one or two bases instead of five. Give yourself at least three full days in each place and let the days find their own shape. Start in the Chianti Classico region between Florence and Siena, where old villages and family cellars sit just off winding roads. Then head south to the Val d'Orcia, where hilltop towns like Pienza, Montalcino and natural thermal springs make it easy to lose track of time. September and October are perfect, when the harvest is in full swing and the summer crowds are gone. The Bigger Picture: Why This Really Matters Slow and experiential tourism is not just a travel trend. It actually means something. When travelers stay longer and spend their money locally, they support family farms, small workshops, and rural communities that keep Tuscany's culture alive. It also takes pressure off the most visited spots and spreads the benefits of tourism more fairly across the region. And on a personal level, people who travel this way come home feeling rested, not drained. They bring back real stories and real friendships. That is the true promise of slow luxury travel in Tuscany : not a trip you need to recover from, but one you carry with you long after you leave. Conclusion Slow tourism is not a passing trend. It reflects a real change in how people think about travel. It asks you to trade quantity for quality, and Tuscany answers that better than almost anywhere else. Whether you are dreaming of a private morning at a winery, a truffle hunt through an autumn forest, or simply sitting still in a beautiful place with nowhere to be, slow travel in Tuscany has a way of giving you exactly what you need, even before you knew what that was. If you want to read more about slow living and luxury travel, you know where to find us, right here at La Peninsula. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Valentine’s Day Just Got a Lot More Gothic Go Travel, On the Peninsula Gstaad Palace: A Century of Alpine Power Go Shopping, On the Peninsula, Beauty, Lifestyle Frozen Elegance: Inside The I.C.E., St. Moritz Go Gallery Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Go Del Toro Shoes Go Dive into La Piscina at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel Shopping Slow Luxury Travel in Tuscany: Why Experiential Tourism Is Replacing Fast Sightseeing La Peninsula Staff Castello di Casole 26 February 2026 10 min Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover authentic Tuscan olive oil from Florence, hand-harvested from centuries-old groves and cold-pressed to capture the bold flavor of traditional Tuscan extra virgin olive oil. A Tuscan Olive Oil Story Rooted in Family, Florence, and Tradition La Bella Toscanina began long before it became a company. It began around a table, surrounded by family, good food, and a deep appreciation for the Italian rituals that bring people together. After the birth of my daughter Luna, something quietly shifted in my life. I stepped away from the world of fashion design and moved toward something more grounding. I began spending more time in the kitchen and in the garden, rediscovering the comfort of cooking and the simple joy of growing what you eat. Those quiet moments brought me back to the essentials of Italian living: food, family, and the ingredients that make every meal meaningful. Authentic Tuscan Olive Oil from Florence, Italy My husband, Gabriele, was born and raised in Florence, Italy, where food is not simply nourishment but part of daily life and cultural heritage. His family still lives there, and for years they would send us bottles of extra-virgin olive oil from Tuscany, produced on a small family friend’s farm nestled in the rolling Tuscan hills. The first time I tasted it, I remember thinking: ‘This is completely different.’ It was vibrant, peppery, and alive, nothing like the olive oils we had grown used to in the United States. This was true Tuscan olive oil, rich with character, freshness, and the unmistakable taste of the Tuscan countryside. Founder Stacie Moss, her husband Gabriele, and their daughter, Luna. That moment stayed with me. I knew I wanted to share that experience with other families. From that desire, La Bella Toscanina was born. Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Tuscany: Harvested by Hand Today, we partner with a single Tuscan estate, a multi-generational farm producing authentic Italian extra virgin olive oil. Each autumn, olives are hand-harvested at peak ripeness and cold-pressed within hours, preserving the freshness, aroma, and distinctive peppery finish that defines traditional Tuscan olive oil from Florence. This careful harvesting process ensures that every bottle captures the essence of the Tuscan harvest, vibrant, aromatic, and deeply rooted in centuries of Italian culinary tradition. Renaissance Olive Groves: 500-Year-Old Trees in the Tuscan Hills Many of the olive trees on the estate are more than 500 years old, planted during the Italian Renaissance and still rooted in the same Tuscan soil today. Through generations of stewardship, these ancient olive groves have quietly shaped the Tuscan landscape. Their deep roots carry the memory of centuries of harvests, seasons, and families who have cared for the land. Each harvest carries not only the fruit of the olive tree but also the story of Tuscany itself. The Cultural Heart of Italian Olive Oil For us, Tuscan olive oil is more than an ingredient. It represents gathering, slowing down, and sharing meals that become lasting memories. Across Italy, especially in Tuscany, olive oil is the foundation of the table. It brings together generations, enhances the simplest ingredients, and reflects the agricultural heritage that defines Italian cuisine. The Tin Collection: Harkened Summer Holidays in Italy The La Bella Toscanina tin collection was born from the same spirit of Italian living. The design was inspired by the feeling of summer holidays in Italy, long sun-washed days spent by the seaside with family. The striped patterns echo the rhythm of beach umbrellas and cabanas lining the Italian coast, and the easy joy of afternoons that seemed to last forever. There is something timeless about those colors and patterns, a quiet nostalgia that feels both playful and elegant, unmistakably Italian. When developing the palette, inspiration came not only from Italy but also from interior design. The goal was to create tins that feel like beautiful objects within the home. Each tin is designed to live proudly on the kitchen counter rather than be hidden away in a cabinet. Every tin carries its own personality and color palette, a distinct mood that stands beautifully on its own. Yet when they sit together, the collection truly comes alive. The colors begin to speak to one another, forming a composition that feels layered, vibrant, and harmonious, much like a table set for a family gathering. They are practical, but they are also meant to bring a sense of beauty into everyday rituals. Bringing a Piece of Tuscany into Every Kitchen The name La Bella Toscanina translates to “beautiful little Tuscany.” It reflects a simple idea: bringing a piece of Tuscany, its warmth, flavors, and soul, into kitchens everywhere. Because the most meaningful moments are often the simplest ones: a meal shared, a table full of loved ones, and authentic Tuscan extra virgin olive oil at the center of it all. Even the smallest kitchen rituals, cooking a meal, pouring olive oil over fresh bread, gathering with family, can hold a quiet kind of poetry. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel, On the Peninsula Polo and Palm Trees: The Polo Room Palm Beach Go IL Menu, Travel Ogawa Miami's Journey Through Japanese Cuisine Go IL Menu, Travel Gstaad Palace: A Century of Alpine Power Go Gallery Go Bouquet Italiano Go Enio Ottaviani Winery Go Capittana at the Helm IL Menu Meet Your New Olive Oil Obsession Stacie Moss La Bella Toscanina 17 March 2026 8 min Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Fog brims the moor, cloaking whispers of Celtic folklore. In Dartmoor, England, wood nymphs and changelings dance veiled from human sight. Deep within this mystical mist, CeCe Jewellery carves stories into solid gold, tales of seafaring, nautical talismans, Celtic mythology, and Old World symbols of love. An art history student from Exeter University, Cece Fein Hughes’ native Dartmoor cradled her love of all things time beyond. Roped with her connection to the sea, Cece and her mother would indulge in their shared love of high art and historical paintings. This often found the two at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. Here, Cece happened upon a single object that would ignite CeCe Jewellery’s inception. On exhibit was a gold band from the Renaissance, a French-made bracelet swirling with pink-and-white enameled flowers. An Old World love promise’s motif, the band’s historic artistry whispered of a forgotten tradition. Champleve Enamel, a meticulous fired-to-gold jewelry craft, dates back to the Byzantine Empire and is the foundation for all of Cece’s designs today. After honing her skills at the British Academy of Jewellery, Cece took to the iconic workshops of London’s Hatton Garden to incorporate one-of-a-kind hand-carving, -painting, and -enameling into her brand. Today, Cece Jewellery’s collections of rings, pendants, and earrings all tell a tale through historic, Hellenic, and modern tattoos inspired by nautical imagery such as A Sailor’s Superstition, Shark & Anchor, and Secrets of the Sea. “The mythical creatures and legends in my work are a reminder of the fascinations of my childhood,” said Cece on her website. “I understand the mysteries and meaning contained in those tales [...] and pour my inspiration into jewelry.” Tales & Talismans “Do you long to sail into the unknown?” This is the question asked by Tales of the Land, Cece’s talisman collection. The Adventurer Charm is a coin-like charm of 18ct yellow gold framed by naturally mined colorless diamonds. One side of the charm is a blue-winged swallow that soars through a sky of twinkling diamonds. Flip it over and find an engraved anchor, symbolic of a sailor's journey soon to begin. “Adventurer” is branded below the anchor, solidifying the wearer’s identity as a free spirit the likes of wave-riding seafarers. The Shark & Anchor Charm, a symbol inspired by traditional sailor tattoos and the ink on Cece’s deep-sea diver father, has a blue-enameled shark with its tail looped around an engraved anchor. Reminiscent of a seaman’s tales of the deep, humming with an old shanty, Shark & Anchor captures a sailor’s heart. Rings, earrings, pendants and locket necklaces complete the collection. The dual-faced Adventurer Charm and other talismans such as the blazing heart Lover’s Charm and the crowned lion Warrior’s Charm are available in any category. Extraordinary Lovers Sea, sky, and land clash in an explosion of the elements, as fiery as new love. The Secrets of the Sea Locket paints a scene of ocean secrets revealed: a detailed conch shell carries a message in a bottle. A love letter? A poem? Or is it a proposal, as suggested by “Marry Me?” engraved on the locket’s inside panel? Worn close to the heart, Secrets of the Sea is an intimate symbol of the silent language between lovers. The Apple of My Eye Locket clicks open to a succulent red apple, depicted after submitting to temptation. Missing a bite-sized chunk, the apple sits on a bed of colorless diamonds, pierced with an arrow of discovered passion. Rings All charms can be crafted into rings. Signets and pendant rings allow the talismans to take center stage. Rings like Secrets of the Sea, Apple of My Eye, and Window to the Soul flaunt a mounted gemstone and enamel the motifs in a landscape of watercolor scenes that hug the ring’s sides. It wouldn’t be a Cece Jewellery piece without its customization options. Lockets offer custom engraving, as they often do, but each piece takes it a step further. Through one-on-one consultations, Cece’s team of master enamelers take a client’s original idea, emotion, or image and transform it into a one-of-a-kind piece. Whether it’s a ring, locket, or pendant necklace, shape and cut are all in the hands of the wearer. Clients get their pick of colored gemstones, hand-painted symbols, and engraved art. From there, the artisans craft a tale into art through traditional goldsmith and enameling techniques. Custom motif rings from CeCe Jewellery Cece’s method is old-school. It all starts with pencil, paper, and watercolors. Original watercolor images or a digital painting rendering allows the enamellers to play with color that lives beyond one-shade diamonds and solid metal bases like gold or silver. The result? A prototype of fine jewelry that brims with color. Once the design’s final rendition is approved, it is sent to the workshop in London’s iconic jewelry quarter. Another distinctive element of Cece’s aesthetic is her signature satin polish, a finish that gives its gold a soft canvas ripe for each motif to come to life. All rings, earrings, and pendants start as blanks or casts, which are then meticulously hand-forged, engraved, painted, and enameled. Slow-made with devoted, expert human hands, Cece Jewellery is an undeniable echo of the goldsmiths and jewel craftsmen along Florence’s Ponte Vecchio. In both places, timeless heirloom accessories are still produced as they’ve been for centuries: with love transcending space, time, and history. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Discover San Domenico Palace, Taormina Go Lifestyle Giorgio Armani Dies at 91: What's Next for the Future of Fashion? Go Travel Acqualina Resort: Miami Beach's Opulent Oasis Go Gallery Go Portofino Dry Gin: Liguria in a Bottle Go Mare Blu Swimwear Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Shopping Blow Ye Winds, Blow Written By Laurie Melchionne Cece Jewellery 1 November 2025 8 Min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

The Eternal City is no stranger to reinvention. Across centuries, palaces have shifted from noble homes to government offices, from artists’ retreats to cultural salons. Yet few transformations have carried as much anticipation as the arrival of Orient Express La Minerva, which opened its doors on April 7. This is not merely a hotel. It is the first Orient Express hotel in the world, a bold new chapter for a legendary brand that has long stood as a symbol of glamour and discovery. Its address alone, Piazza della Minerva 69, just steps from the Pantheon, places guests at the center of Roman history, with ancient stones and Renaissance façades forming its immediate neighbors. A Palazzo with a Past La Minerva inhabits a 17th-century palazzo known historically as Palazzo Fonseca. Over centuries, its marble halls echoed with the voices of aristocrats, statesmen, and writers on the Grand Tour. Long before luxury brands redefined hospitality, this address was already a discreet stage for encounters between intellect and art. The renovation, entrusted to architect-artist Hugo Toro, respects this layered past. Original frescoes have been uncovered and restored, marble columns polished to a soft sheen, and the central dome now floods the lobby with natural light. Presiding over it all is the statue of Minerva, goddess of wisdom, who seems to guard this new temple of hospitality. Toro’s interiors elevate the romance of the Orient Express brand into tactile detail. The hotel offers 93 rooms and 36 suites, each singular in scale and decoration. Many suites open directly onto views of the Pantheon and Piazza della Minerva, a luxury that ties the guest experience to the city’s heartbeat. “Opening the doors of Orient Express La Minerva marks a powerful moment in our journey,” said Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO of Orient Express. “Rome, with its layered beauty and bold character, offers the perfect canvas to reimagine the legacy of Orient Express through new purpose and experience — where Romans gather, and international aesthetes unite.” Inside, wardrobes are clad in woven leather, nightstands resemble vintage steamer trunks, and bathrooms are sculpted from gleaming travertine. Beds are dressed in Rivolta Carmignani linens, the same fabric once used in Orient Express sleeper-cars. Corridors whisper with hand-painted tiles, while public spaces mix plaster, fresco, and contemporary art. It is a design ethos that feels at once timeless and vividly of the present. “With Orient Express La Minerva, we are inaugurating the very first Orient Express hotel in the world, giving shape to a new concept of ultra-luxury hospitality,” said Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenal Group, the Orient Express’ development partner. “This project combines the identity of a legendary brand with the entrepreneurial vision of Arsenale… transforming iconic places into world-class destinations.” Culinary and Cultural Horizons Hospitality here extends beyond guest rooms. On the ground floor, the La Minerva Bar lies beneath the palazzo’s glass dome, framed by original marble columns. It is an all-day gathering place, equally suited to a morning espresso, an afternoon aperitivo, or a nightcap that lingers past midnight. Above, the rooftop unveils Gigi Rigolatto Roma, a restaurant and bar that delivers Rome in 360 degrees. From its terraces, the domes and rooftops of the Eternal City stretch out in golden light — the Pantheon close enough to touch. Soon, Mimi Kakushi, the acclaimed international dining concept, will add its cosmopolitan flair to the mix. Event and meeting spaces, including the Olimpo Ballroom and carriage-inspired salons, make La Minerva a stage for celebrations and gatherings. From private weddings to global conferences, these venues ensure the hotel remains as much a Roman cultural hub as a luxurious retreat. What sets Orient Express La Minerva apart is not only its design or cuisine but its vibrancy. To stay here is to take part in Rome’s renaissance, where history is not merely preserved but lived. “In a period of renaissance for the city, Rome is the ideal setting for a global project aimed at creating an authentic, memorable, and personalized luxury hospitality experience,” said Giampaolo Ottazzi, general manager of Orient Express Hotels Italy. “With La Minerva, we restore a historic stage to the city that for years has been a refuge for renowned intellectuals and artists.” Reservations and details are available through the hotel’s official site: laminerva.orient-express.com . Guests can explore images of the restored palazzo, discover culinary menus, and preview suites overlooking the Pantheon. For those drawn by the Orient Express name — long synonymous with romance and adventure — La Minerva offers a chance to experience that spirit in the heart of Rome. In Rome, every corner tells a story. With Orient Express La Minerva, an old palazzo tells a new one, of heritage reborn, of luxury reimagined, and of timeless discovery awaiting those who step inside. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Lifestyle A Day in the Life of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco Go Shopping 77 Diamonds Opens Milano Showroom Go Travel The Sicilian Secret Diet According to Drs. Giovanni Campanile & Sandra Cammarata Go Gallery Go Cayumas Go Bouquet Italiano Go Portofino Dry Gin: Liguria in a Bottle Travel Orient Express La Minerva: Modern Luxe in a 17th-Century Palazzo Written By La Peninsula Staff Alexandre Tabaste 25 September 2025 8 Min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Mare. Sole. Amore. Love of sea and sun redefines la dolce vita at CARINA, the Italian lifestyle brand. Here, it becomes a lifestyle, an identity, and one of the founding principles that inspired its launch. Known for its clutches, wallets, jewelry and passport cases, CARINA was founded by Clarissa Carlucci and her mother back in 2020. At the time, the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height and international travel was at a standstill. Carlucci, whose heritage traces to the Italian Riviera, captured the essence of a country she and her mother longed to return to—in particular, to Liguria, the colorful coastal region where her late father was born. “My mom and I started CARINA in honor of my late father,” said Carlucci. “Since then, it has been a dream to see it evolve into a recognized Italian lifestyle brand.” From Portofino to the rainbow buildings of Cinque Terre, CARINA paints each product with la costa’s palette. Portofino Pink, Mediterranean turquoise, and Aperol orange are just some of the colors that transport the wearer to the Peninsula. “Each of the destinations that we travel to together along the Italian coast inspires our collections—whether it’s the peachy pink buildings of Portofino or the dark blue waters that surround the island of Ischia,” said Carlucci. These colors of Italy shade each clutch, wallet, coin purse and jewelry case. Crafted from luxurious vegan leather, CARINA also embodies high-quality, Italian craftsmanship. “Sustainability is incredibly important to us,” explained Carlucci. “Each of our collections is sourced from vegan leather and is limited to reduce fashion waste.” CARINA’s Italian identity weaves beyond the Riviera-themed colors. “Inspired by the summer of the Mediterranean Sea,” the Riviera Collezione is a direct tribute to Liguria. Italian phrases, metaphors, and motifs are embossed in gilded letters that glimmer as brightly as the Mediterranean’s sunset. “La Dolce Vita,” “Spritz Szn,” “Il Mare,” “Ciao Bella,” “Sole + Mare,” and “Dolce Far Niente” bolster a sunshine state of mind through CARINA’s simple use of la lingua italiana . “‘La Dolce Vita’ vibes should last all year long in our opinion,” added Carlucci. “The CARINA aesthetic is unapologetically vibrant and colorful all year round. Most of our accessories have our iconic golden tone puller and embossing, reminiscent of how the sea glistens during golden hour along the Italian Riviera—if you know, you know!” And it doesn’t end with the Riviera. The Favoriti Collezione goes for bold, both with its head-turning shades and evocative parole. “Ti Voglio,” “Principessa,” “Baci,” “Italiana,” and “Ti Voglio Bene” shimmer across clutches of glowing hot pink and dazzling cobalt blue, combining for the ultimate statement-maker. For an emphasis on softness, the Bridal Collezione honors the new “Sposa” or “Fidanzata” in wedding white or delicate cream, sprinkling Italy to any wedding reception or bridal shower. The sold-out Amalfi Collezione travels to another icon of the Italian coast. “Inspired by cascading colors, citrus, and the sea,” these clutches transport any outfit to Amalfi, Ravello, Positano, or Capri. Phrases like “Limoncello,” “Cin Cin,” and “Take Me to Amalfi” conjure the coast’s lemon-scented strade and jagged turquoise spiaggie . Understated and elegant, CARINA blends la dolce vita through elevated self-expression—Italian style. Day or night, abroad or at home, each clutch, case, or wallet complements any style through the subtle sophistication of its Ligurian color scheme. As for what’s next, Carlucci shared, “We love building our brand with our community and customers. We can’t wait to see where they take us next—you’ll have to stay tuned on social for more!” For the latest from the Italian Riviera, follow CARINA on Instagram, @carinacompany . Shop the collections online at shopcarina.com . Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Beauty Amangati: Aman’s Floating Sanctuary Go IL Menu Avra Miami’s Definition of the Greek Spirit Go Travel The Scent of Love: Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her Go Gallery Go Capittana at the Helm Go The Return of Palm House, A Luxury Hotel Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Shopping Parole, Parole, Parole Written By Laurie Melchionne CARINA 27 August 2025 7 min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Best luxury sunglasses don’t have to come with a designer price tag. INDY Sunglasses offers affordable luxury sunglasses with polarized lenses, vintage-inspired design, and premium craftsmanship—your new go-to designer alternative. In the world of luxury sunglasses, price tags often climb into the hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. Yet many of these designer frames are produced using the same materials and manufacturing processes found in far more accessible eyewear. This realization sparked the creation of INDY Sunglasses, the New York eyewear brand founded by designer Indie McFarlane. After noticing the steep markup commonly attached to designer eyewear, McFarlane set out to create premium sunglasses using the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship, without the inflated designer price tag. Today, INDY Sunglasses represents a new generation of affordable luxury eyewear, where thoughtful design and timeless style take precedence over traditional fashion markups. Each frame begins with McFarlane’s sketches, created in her New York City apartment, where the brand’s signature aesthetic was first developed: confident, polished, and effortlessly chic. Vintage Sunglasses with Modern Style One of the defining characteristics of INDY Sunglasses is its balance of vintage-inspired silhouettes and modern design elements. Classic eyewear shapes, often reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, are reimagined through contemporary lens colors, refined proportions, and subtle design details. This approach allows INDY frames to feel timeless rather than trend-driven, making them ideal everyday sunglasses that can elevate even the simplest outfit. SoHo Caramel frames. Whether paired with a tailored blazer, summer linen, or relaxed denim, the frames carry the quiet sophistication associated with luxury designer sunglasses, but with an ease that makes them wearable from morning coffee to evening cocktails. Polarized Sunglasses Designed for Everyday Luxury While INDY Sunglasses places strong emphasis on aesthetics, the brand is equally committed to performance and comfort. Many frames feature polarized lenses, offering improved clarity and reduced glare—an essential feature for modern sunglasses. Combined with carefully selected materials and thoughtful construction, these details ensure that the sunglasses are not only stylish but also durable enough for daily wear. The result is eyewear that moves seamlessly from city streets to travel destinations, making INDY frames an ideal choice for those seeking stylish polarized sunglasses that blend fashion with functionality. Flattering Sunglasses Frames for Every Style Another defining feature of INDY Sunglasses is the brand’s focus on universally flattering shapes. Each design is carefully refined to complement a variety of face shapes while maintaining a distinct personality. Gisele sunglasses in Amber. Subtle design elements, such as balanced proportions, elegant lens tints, and understated hardware, give each pair of sunglasses its own identity. The result is a collection that feels both versatile and distinctive, allowing wearers to express personal style while enjoying the effortless confidence that comes with well-designed eyewear. A New Generation of Luxury Sunglasses INDY Sunglasses reflects a broader shift happening in fashion: the rise of luxury-quality products created outside the traditional designer system. Instead of paying for branding alone, customers are increasingly seeking exceptional materials, thoughtful design, and authentic craftsmanship. By designing each frame herself and maintaining a focused, independent approach, Indie McFarlane has created a sunglasses brand that embodies modern luxury—refined, accessible, and effortlessly stylish. For those searching for luxury sunglasses without the designer markup, INDY offers a refreshing alternative. Why INDY Sunglasses Are Trending in Luxury Eyewear Luxury fashion consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that deliver premium quality without traditional retail markups, and INDY Sunglasses fits perfectly within this growing movement. With its vintage-inspired aesthetic, polarized lenses, and New York design heritage, the brand has quickly become a favorite among those looking for chic everyday sunglasses that feel elevated yet approachable. The result is eyewear that captures the essence of modern luxury: confident, timeless, and quietly distinctive. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories IL Menu Naples, Florida Just Made A Comeback Go Travel How to Step into Italian Artistry at Miami's ICA Go Travel Meet Your New Olive Oil Obsession Go Gallery Go Dubai-based M. Kais Bridal Showcases Spring/Summer 2026 Collection at Milan Fashion Week 2025 Go Juan de Dios Go Mare Blu Swimwear Shopping Looking for the Best Luxury Sunglasses? Start Here La Peninsula Staff Andee Maher 21 March 2026 5 min Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Few figures embody Italian elegance like Giorgio Armani (1934–2025) . His name became synonymous with effortless tailoring, sleek power dressing, and Hollywood glamor. But behind the empire lay a story rooted in resilience, creativity, and an unwavering belief in beauty. Armani at War Armani was born in the small town of Piacenza on July 11, 1934. His father worked as an accountant, his mother a homemaker, raising three children—Sergio, Giorgio, and Rosanna—against the backdrop of World War II. The war left indelible scars. Allied bombings tore through northern Italy, and young Giorgio was severely injured in an explosion, sustaining burns that required a long hospital stay. Yet amid trauma, cinema became his refuge. Hollywood’s glamor offered escape, shaping a young boy’s dreams and his fascination with elegance, silhouettes, and how beauty could uplift the spirit. From Medicine to Milano Chic Initially, Armani pursued a career in medicine at the University of Milan, fascinated by anatomy and the study of form. But his time serving in the army hospital of Verona revealed something else: the subtle power of clothing. Observing uniforms and civilian dress, he began to understand how fabric could project identity and authority. In 1957, fate intervened. Armani joined La Rinascente, Milan’s iconic department store, designing window displays and learning the language of textiles. His “accidental” entry into fashion quickly revealed a natural gift for detail, proportion, and restraint. Soon after, he became a designer for Nino Cerruti, where he refined the tailored look that would become his signature. An Empire is Born By the 1970s, Armani was ready to build something of his own. With encouragement from his partner Sergio Galeotti, he sold his beloved Volkswagen Beetle to fund a bold idea: Giorgio Armani SpA, founded in 1975. His breakthrough came with a radical reimagining of the suit. Gone were stiff shoulders and rigid cuts; in their place, fluid lines, soft tailoring, and relaxed elegance. The look resonated deeply in an era craving modernity and confidence. By the 1980s, Armani was no longer just a designer, he was a cultural force. Hollywood’s Power Suit Armani’s rise coincided with Hollywood’s appetite for style. His designs for Richard Gere in “American Gigolo” (1980) redefined men’s fashion, turning his suits into emblems of sophistication. Soon, Armani’s name became a fixture on the red carpet and in films from “Goodfellas” (1990) to “The Wolf of Wall Street" (2013). The 1980s and 1990s saw the “Armani power suit” dominate boardrooms and studios alike, dressing everyone from actors to executives. Stylists dubbed the Oscars “the Armani Awards,” reflecting his role in shaping the language of celebrity elegance. Conquering the World, One Design at a Time Armani’s empire extended far beyond tailoring . He launched Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange to reach younger audiences, while branching into fragrance, accessories, interiors, and even hospitality. Armani Hotels in Milan and Dubai reflect the same sleek, understated philosophy that defined his clothing. Yet through it all, Armani remained fiercely independent. Unlike many contemporaries who sold to luxury conglomerates, he retained creative control of his brand—an independence that preserved his vision. Armani’s journey was marked by both pragmatism and poetry. His very first collection, a risk that would define his future, was financed not by wealthy backers but by the humble sale of his Volkswagen Beetle, a simple car exchanged for the promise of elegance. That daring leap into fashion became the foundation of an empire. From there, Armani’s vision found its way into the cinematic world. Over the course of his career, he styled wardrobes for more than 200 films, weaving together Hollywood glamor and Milanese discipline. The silver screen became his second runway, where each costume spoke of refinement and restraint, always in service to the story yet unmistakably Armani. A perfectionist at heart, he demanded the same relentless pursuit of elegance from his teams that he demanded of himself. Every seam, every cut, every silhouette bore the weight of his exacting standards. It was this uncompromising approach that gave his designs their unmistakable clarity: quiet, timeless, and undeniably powerful. Though Armani never married, his life was never short of family. He remained deeply devoted to his siblings, especially Rosanna, with whom he worked closely in the company. That closeness infused his professional world with a familial rhythm, a reminder that his empire was not just about apparel, but about connection. In one of his final reflections, shared in 2025, Armani admitted that if he had one regret, it was how much he worked—often at the expense of time with loved ones. For all his brilliance, he recognized that even an empire built on elegance comes at a cost. Yet it is precisely this blend of ambition, artistry, and humility that cements his legacy: a life spent tailoring not just garments, but the very fabric of modern style. Legacy of an Italian Visionary Giorgio Armani’s life mirrored Italy itself, rooted in tradition, scarred by war, but reborn through creativity and innovation. From a boy in Piacenza dreaming through cinema screens to a man who dressed the world, Armani built more than a brand: he built a legacy that weaves not only into fashion history but into the cultural fabric of Italy itself. Second photo via GABRIEL BOUYS / AFP / picturedesk.com at heute.at Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Alys Beach, Florida: A Coastal Sanctuary of Timeless Elegance Go Beauty Antica Farmacista's Style Go Travel A Roman Pilgrim’s Guide to Saint Jude Go Gallery Go Dive into La Piscina at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel Go Daniella Ortiz: La Dama de Las Carteras Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Lifestyle Giorgio Armani: From War-Time Pauper to the Catwalk Sovereign Written By Geraldine Melchionne Photo via mywhere.it/wp-content/flagallery/made-in-italy/giorgio-armani.jpg 8 September 2025 8 Min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

In 2025, the authentic urban man steps out in bold fragrance with the never-before-imagined scent of salt. Le Sel d’Issey Pour Homme is the mens fragrance produced by perfumer Quentin Bisch. The fragrance also marks the last time Miyake touched a fragrance under Issey Miyake Parfums prior to his passing in 2022. Dubbed “the next generation of Issey Miyake,” the masculine aroma exudes salt’s many identities. A seaside nostalgia of the wayfaring man, Le Sel’s sprays top notes of sea salt and ginger. Layered with seaweed and vetiver, with a forest base of cedarwood and oakmoss, Le Sel is the outdoors reimagined. Designed by contemporary artist Tokujin Yoshioka, the bottle itself crystalizes like a salt pillar forged by brooding ocean waves on a gray, stormy coast. Masculinity naturally protects, an element Le Sel cloaks in responsible environmentalism through its refillable 50ML and 100ML bottles. Unlike typical bottles across the fragrance industry, this reusability reduces carbon emission by 59%, energy consumption by 59%, and water consumption by 52%. With every spritz, Le Sel preserves for the environment and selectively cultivates resources through responsible production. Salt’s scent, a previously inconceivable sensation, honors Issey Miyake’s legacy of innovation. For 2025, it perfumes the modern man in rugged natural elements, sustainable values, and inimitable aura. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Prada Group Acquires Versace Go Travel Rome's 2025 Year of Jubilee Go Shopping 77 Diamonds Unveils Fall Jewelry Edit Go Gallery Go Romazzino: Sardinia's Latest Unknown Gem Go Enio Ottaviani Winery Go Rome's 2025 Year of Jubilee Beauty Profumo di Sale Written By Laurie Melchionne Issey Miyake 10 January 2025 7 min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

From the hills of Basilicata, 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory is a unique outlier in the world of eyewear. Its very name embodies its devotion to sustainability: 1955 is its own factory and manufacturer. What does this mean for the consumer? You know exactly where your glasses and sunglasses are made, with full traceability to the materials used in every metal, hinge, and lens. From the hills of Basilicata, 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory is a unique outlier in the world of eyewear. Its very name embodies its devotion to sustainability: 1955 is its own factory and manufacturer. How does this benefit the consumer? You know exactly where your glasses and sunglasses are made, with full traceability to the materials used in every metal, hinge, and lens. Quality, Custom, Chic In Tito, Potenza, the heart of Southern Italy, the craftsmen at 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory deliver a unique approach to the traditionally straightforward eyewear silhouette. Minimalism and opulence link through wood and cotton fiber derivatives, in everything from the brightly-colored Venti lenses to the boldly squared IV frames. The factory customizes frames to the customer’s unique individuality, aesthetic, and vision. Simultaneously a manufacturer for other glasses brands and its own private label, the company offers three collections: OA, PRIMUS, and Light Ivory. Youthful and versatile, refined and sophisticated, 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory offers a balanced, everyday frame for all ages, genders, and styles. From the adult OA collection, the IX sunglasses unite contemporary shades (Orange, Pink, and Black) with the 70s nostalgia of wide, round frames that dominate current trends. Handmade and packaged in 100% recycled materials, this style is enforced with durable multi-barrel Teflon hinges and CR-39 lenses for ultimate UV ray shielding. A raised inner temple incision and saddle nose bridge optimize comfort for all-day wearing, and can be easily cleaned with its accompanying microfiber cloth. A portable silk case also provides convenience for on-the-go storage. The children’s PRIMUS collection stares boldly into a world of head-turning color. The cat-eye Diciotto, John Lennon-esque Diciannove, and square-framed Ventiquattro models, among others, gaze in a rainbow’s array of colors. Transparent Fuschia, Lime Green, sunflower yellow, and even periwinkle blue flip traditional eyewear shades on its head. With the vibrancy of PRIMUS, casual style is revolutionized with a bold take on an everyday, functional accessory. The Light Ivory collection, also tailored for the younger fashionista, is handmade with Italian Mazzucchelli acetate and is heat-malleable to adjust shape and size according to the wearer’s features. Genderless and available in a range of colors like Tortoise, Ivory Lime, Ivory Ice, and Ivory Black, the Light Ivory collection adds handcrafted artisanry to full-coverage UVA and UVB protection, laser-engraved temples, and silver teflon hinges. All designs are hand-sketched, hand-cut, and then finalized with laser and 3D-printing technology, merging both new and old elements that are essential to Made in Italy aesthetics. Slow production is valued as a pinnacle of the brand’s creativity. Varnish and lacquer-free, each model is sanded and shined with beeswax to ensure longevity and utilizes 48 to 96 hours of hand polishing with a buffing wheel. A team of youthful innovators hone tradition in their hand-crafted models, while the technology refines each shape with a modernist edge. Eco Eyewear While eyewear production is not 100% sustainable (in fashion, nothing ever is), 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory offsets what minimal waste is produced during manufacturing, and reduces its eco-footprint every step of the way. A major point in this journey is its small-batch production for the collections and all bespoke frames. Solar-derived energy and recycled water power production. To further diminish its carbon footprint and reduce landfill contributions, the company utilizes recycled acetate, waste produced from cellulose in wood and tree pulp, sourced in Basilicata’s surrounding hills. 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory is Certified Quality Management- and Certified Environmental Management System-certified. Courtesy of the Italian government, it also boasts certifications in the following categories: 100% Made in Italy. 100% Italian materials. Made with quality, non-flammable, non-toxic materials. Made with exclusive, original designs. Made with traditional Italian craftsmanship and techniques. "Sustainability at our 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory is more than a practice; it is the essence of our identity, seamlessly intertwining with our mission to craft timeless elegance,” said CEO Marco Buoncristiano. “Every frame we produce reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship, upholding the artisanal heritage while innovating for a greener future." One-of-A-Kind Vision Compliant and traceable, 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory truly embodies the unique blend of traditional elegance and contemporary edge, a signature aesthetic of Made in Italy brands. Whether it's the classic, tortoise-framed OA XI, or the quirky round-edged OA VI, the company breathes youthful energy into an age-old Italian accessories category, one that honors traditionalism, respects the environment, and always looks to the future. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Ferragamo's Latest Portrait Go Travel Meet Artemisia Gentileschi: The Spirit of Caesar in the Soul of a Woman Go Shopping Canfora Capri Sandals: Timeless Craftsmanship on Italy’s Most Iconic Island Go Gallery Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Go Bouquet Italiano Go Rome's 2025 Year of Jubilee Shopping Occhiali del Mondo: 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory Written By Laurie Melchionne 1955 Italian Eyewear Factory 27 August 2025 8 Min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Bloomingdale’s pairs with “Wuthering Heights” in a romantic collaboration that yearns across the moors...and shopping categories. Ahead of the highly anticipated February 13 premiere of “Wuthering Heights” starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, Bloomingdale’s turns toward a darker, more cinematic vision of romance. In partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the retailer unveils Bloomingdale’s x "Wuthering Heights," an immersive Carousel shop inspired by Emerald Fennell’s reimagining of Emily Brontë’s iconic novel. From January 15 through February 22, Bloomingdale’s legendary 59th Street Carousel is transformed into a moody, romantic landscape shaped by windswept moors, period elegance, and the emotional intensity of the film. Blurring the boundaries between retail and storytelling, the experience invites visitors to step inside one of literature’s most enduring love stories, reimagined for the modern moment. At the heart of the installation is an exclusive 35-piece AQUA x Wuthering Heights collection, designed solely for Bloomingdale’s. Inspired by Cathy’s wardrobe, defined as 19th-century opulence-meets-surreal-fever-dream, the limited-edition assortment spans women’s dresses, sleepwear, and jewelry. Flowing silhouettes, romantic gowns, puff-sleeve pajamas trimmed with eyelet and ribbon, and opulent statement jewelry evoke the untamed elegance of the moors, created for Galentine’s gatherings, Valentine’s celebrations, and evenings steeped in cinematic fantasy. Strapless Smock Back Dress, from the AQUA x "Wuthering Heights" collection at Bloomingdale's Surrounding the collection is a carefully curated edit of romantic gifts and specialty pieces, including AQUA’s Sweetheart Neck High-Low Rose-Printed Gown, exclusive lace lingerie from Hanky Panky, Slip silk pillowcases and sleep masks, and candles from Lollia. Additional highlights include Art of Tea’s floral blends, Maude’s body oil and massage-candle duo, TOKYOMILK fragrance, Kim Seybert coasters, and Dear Annabelle notecards, each selected to echo the sensual, poetic mood of the story. The Carousel itself is conceived as a fully immersive environment. Stylized references to the moors, period architecture, and interiors inspired by Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange anchor the space, while dramatic backdrops and scenic vignettes transform shopping into a multi-sensory journey. “We're thrilled to partner with Warner Bros. to bring the romance and drama of ‘Wuthering Heights’ to life through an immersive shopping experience within our Carousel,” said Denise Magid, chief merchant of Bloomingdale's. “Featuring a wide range of categories and anchored by the exclusive AQUA collaboration, we're confident the assortment will resonate with our customers and inspire memorable Valentine's Day gifting and beyond.” Sweetheart Neck High Low Gown, from the AQUA x "Wuthering Heights" collection at Bloomingdale's From the Warner Bros. perspective, the collaboration reflects the film’s creative reach beyond the screen. “Emerald Fennell's wholly original imagining of 'Wuthering Heights' for the big screen has proven truly inspirational for our creative partners, as evidenced by the breadth and depth of the Bloomingdale's Carousel Shop and the impressive roster of brands their clientele will be able to enjoy in time for Valentine's Day shopping,” said Dana Nussbaum, co-head of Global Motion Pictures Marketing at Warner Bros. Discovery. The experience extends beyond New York, with pop-up Carousel shops appearing in SoHo, Aventura, Century City, Sherman Oaks, and Roosevelt Field from January 15–22, alongside dramatic window installations developed with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products. The activation culminates on February 7 with a multi-city Galentine’s Day celebration at the 59th Street and Century City locations, featuring brand activations, a Glamsquad styling moment, sip-and-shop experiences, live music, light bites, and immersive photo moments. With “Wuthering Heights,” Bloomingdale’s transforms Valentine’s retail into something more evocative, a love story rendered in silk, lace, scent, and shadow, where fashion and film converge in a shared language of desire. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Amangati: Aman’s Floating Sanctuary Go Travel Alto Adige, The Alpine Jewel of Northern Wines Go Travel Acqualina Resort: Miami Beach's Opulent Oasis Go Gallery Go Capittana at the Helm Go Portofino Dry Gin: Liguria in a Bottle Go The Return of Palm House, A Luxury Hotel Shopping, On the Peninsula, Beauty, Lifestyle Valentine’s Day Just Got a Lot More Gothic Written By Laurie Melchionne Photos courtesy of Bloomingdale's 17 January 2026 5 min Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

City of the Baptist. Land of the Medici. Cradle of the Renaissance. Firenze is many things, but today, her storied streets and towering monuments boast a modern la dolce vita . Profumo di Firenze, cultivated by the fragrance-expert Galardi family, captures the essence of the city’s soul. While Firenze flaunts a rich history of aromachology, dating back to Caterina de’ Medici’s 1533 “Acqua della Regina” original perfume, Profumo di Firenze pays homage to the Firenze recognized by scent enthusiasts of today. Food and history, two pillars of the Fiorentino identity, fragrances Profumo di Firenze’s collections: “Firenze” and “Dante.” The Firenze Collection The Firenze Collection—Buonatalenti, Fior di Pane, and Latte e Mandorla—whisks the flavors of Florence for indulgent, mouth-watering scents. Buontalenti Inhale sweetness with this gelato-inspired scent. Vanilla dances with notes of peach and apricot. Flavors of Italian ice cream swirl throughout an olfactory pyramid rich in raspberry, coconut, banana, caramel, and cream. With every spray, the wearer breathes the essence of an iconic Italian treat, glimpsing a taste of Firenze’s gelaterie . Fior di Pane The Panetteria, another icon of Italian gastronomy, evokes plumes of freshly baked pane . Savory bread mingles with violet, tulip, and iris, steaming from a nostalgic oven on currents of vanilla and nutty tonks bean. Latte e Mandorla Milk-drenched almond perfumes this scent, which blends the subtle snap of anise with the feminine elegance of rose petals. Latte e Mandorla douses the senses in a luxurious milk bath edged by inviting, salty almonds. The Dante Collection Named after Dante Alighieri, father of la lingua italiana , the Dante Collection pays homage to Florence’s medieval heritage with mysterious, philosophical scents: XXV Marzo, Obscurus, Viandante, Peccatum, Matelda, and Niveus. XXV Marzo Accompany Dante on his soul-stirring journey through The Divine Comedy. Immerse yourself in Tuscan leather, fresh caffé , sandalwood, and musk. Obscurus Plunge into the mysterious shadows of a sandalwood forest. Here, cedar and pine rustle with citrus orange and geranium, hugging the wearer in the warmth of an ancient bosco . Viandante Viandante, meaning “traveler,” honors Dante’s persona as a wanderer through Purgatory and the consequences of divine transgression. Zesty passion fruit and lemon pair with delicate vanilla, symbolizing a traveler’s shifting identities and a scent’s mood-reflection. Peccatum Peccatum (“sin”) is an exploration of sensuality, discovered by Dante in hell’s lustful second pit. Masculine tobacco undulates with exotic Damascena Rose, an intoxicating blend of earthy leather and sultry feminine florals. Bold and head-turning, Peccatum reimagines the word “sensual.” Matelda As Dante emerges from the underworld, light gives way to life: Matelda breathes flowers of chamomile, peach, and white grapefruit. Mixed with this lighter take on a classic, subtle scent, Matelda represents rebirth and new beginnings. Niveus A jewel of vanilla, incense, iris, bergamot, and sweet orange, Niveus embodies the reward of salvation, abandoning temptation and following Dante at the final cusp of his journey and into the light. From here, the offerings extend beyond eau de parfum. Profumo di Crema, the brand’s skincare category, reimagines selections of “Firenze” and “Dante” as body lotion. Firenze’s scents take the wearer on a journey. Whether it’s through the bread-scented, gelato-sweetened strade , or the city’s intricate historical tapestry, Profumo di Firenze awakens the senses and thrusts the wearer right into its hometown. Shop the scents at profumodifirenze.it and follow them on Instagram at @profumodifirenze . Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Avra Miami’s Definition of the Greek Spirit Go IL Menu Dalla Terra: Sustainable Agriculture Go IL Menu Tis The Season of Good Karma Go Gallery Go Cayumas Go Dive into La Piscina at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel Go Silk's Sustainable Secret Beauty Profumo di Firenze Written By Laurie Melchionne Profumo di Firenze 22 August 2025 8 Min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Kering announced that Francesca Bellettini, one of the group’s most seasoned executives, has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Gucci, effective immediately. She succeeds Stefano Cantino, who exits the role after less than nine months, as the French luxury group seeks to revitalize its flagship Italian brand following a period of slowing sales and leadership turbulence. Bellettini, formerly Deputy CEO of Kering in charge of Brand Development and the long-time chief executive of Yves Saint Laurent, will now lead Gucci’s full operations. Her responsibilities include overseeing creative strategy, merchandising, financial performance, operations, and long-term brand positioning. She will report directly to Luca de Meo, the new CEO of Kering, who took over earlier this year. “At this pivotal moment, I intend to build a leaner and clearer organization in which the best talent drives our Houses forward,” said De Meo. “Gucci, as the flagship of our Group, deserves the sharpest focus, and Francesca — one of the most seasoned and respected professionals in our industry — will bring the leadership and flawless execution needed to restore the brand to its rightful place.” Gucci has faced sharp sales declines, with revenues dropping around 25% year-on-year in Q2 2025. The downturn followed instability in both leadership and creative direction, leaving investors and industry insiders questioning the house’s long-term trajectory. In response, De Meo has begun restructuring Kering’s executive ranks. The dual deputy-CEO structure that Bellettini once shared with Jean-Marc Duplaix has been scrapped. Duplaix remains Group Chief Operating Officer, while Bellettini steps fully into Gucci’s top job, consolidating decision-making at the brand and sharpening accountability. Bellettini brings a reputation for disciplined management and creative sensitivity. After a career that began in finance with Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Morgan Grenfell, she transitioned to fashion in the late 1990s, holding senior roles at Prada, Helmut Lang, Gucci, and Bottega Veneta before joining Yves Saint Laurent in 2013. At Saint Laurent, she orchestrated one of the luxury industry’s most remarkable turnarounds, growing revenues from €557 million in 2013 to nearly €3 billion by 2024. She also successfully navigated a creative director transition, ensuring Anthony Vaccarello’s modern vision resonated while honoring the maison’s DNA. By 2023, her impact was so significant that she was elevated to Deputy CEO of Kering, with all brand heads reporting directly to her. Her effectiveness was recognized not only in business but also culturally. She was awarded the Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur by France for her contributions to the industry. “I am truly honoured to take on direct responsibility for Gucci, one of the world’s most iconic luxury Houses,” said Belletini. “I look forward to working under the leadership of Luca de Meo, whose innovative and fresh perspective inspires us to push boundaries. I’m excited to embark on this new challenge together with the whole Gucci team and alongside Demna, whose creativity I have always admired.” Looking Ahead to Milan Fashion Week One of Bellettini’s first major milestones will be overseeing the relaunch of Gucci under Demna, the newly appointed creative director. Demna’s debut collection is expected to be unveiled as a film during Milan Fashion Week on September 23, 2025. The presentation will be closely watched for signals about the house’s future aesthetic and commercial positioning. Industry analysts note that Bellettini will be under pressure to balance Gucci’s maximalist legacy under Alessandro Michele with the sharper, profitability-driven strategy Kering demands. Her ability to align creativity with commercial clarity is seen as critical to restoring Gucci’s market dominance. What’s Next for Gucci and Kering For Kering, Bellettini’s appointment is a message of stability and discipline. Gucci remains the group’s largest brand, and its performance has an outsized impact on Kering’s overall financial health. By placing Bellettini at the helm, De Meo is signaling a commitment to rigorous management and brand clarity. Analysts suggest Bellettini may review pricing strategies, distribution channels, and marketing efforts while strengthening Gucci’s identity in a crowded luxury market. The expectation is a focus on long-term profitability, global expansion, and a carefully curated creative vision that restores consumer confidence. As Gucci turns a page, all eyes are on Francesca Bellettini. Her record of combining heritage stewardship with commercial success at Saint Laurent gives her strong credentials. Yet the challenges at Gucci, from declining sales to brand repositioning, are considerable. With her mix of discipline, vision, and deep ties to the luxury world, Bellettini’s leadership marks the beginning of what could be one of the most closely watched chapters in the history of Italian fashion. Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Acqualina Resort: Miami Beach's Opulent Oasis Go Travel A Roman Pilgrim’s Guide to Saint Jude Go Travel Alto Adige, The Alpine Jewel of Northern Wines Go Gallery Go Enio Ottaviani Winery Go New Aging: Italian Skincare Go Bouquet Italiano Lifestyle Francesca Bellettini Named President & CEO of Gucci in Kering Leadership Shake-Up Written By La Peninsula Staff Marco Cella via Kering on Globalnewswire.com 24 September 2025 7 min read Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →