At least one festive dinner is a Salone must, especially in a design-forward restaurant. “For a special night out, I always love Trattoria Masuelli,” says Yashar. “It’s a family-run place full of history, where the interiors, with Gio Ponti chandeliers and original 1920s chairs, make you feel the elegance.” Sushi Matsu Omakase or Don Carlos at the Grand Hotel et de Milan are Moran’s go-tos. The latter, “for me, is one of those rare hidden places in Milan with exceptional food and impeccable service,” she says.
Meanwhile, a livelier night might begin at Rōnin, which offers “great dinner and is perfect for drinks and a bit of dancing after,” says Madina Visconti. “These days,” adds Martin, “all my friends are doing their fun dinner parties at Cipriani and The Wilde.”
For Packing (and Dressing) Like an Italian
“It’s a very flamboyant moment,” says Martin. “The bolder, the better!” Similarly, Yashar approaches her “soulful” Design Week ensembles as “a creative sidekick to designing, an extra layer of storytelling with no words required.”
However, practicality is key. Long days, with lots of walking, call for day-to-night looks that include stylish sneakers. With the city’s unpredictable spring weather, packing both sunglasses and a raincoat can go a long way. “The look has to be cool, light, and comfortable,” explains Madina Visconti. “And always bring a tote bag—you’ll need it for business cards, catalogs, and all the beautiful things you collect during the day.”
For Shopping and Souvenirs
Any Italian pharmacy can provide high-quality necessities—sunscreen, supplements, and hand and lip creams—but Martin likes to go holistic. “Farmacia Legnani is Milan’s best,” she says. “They can make any flower medicine recipe you want—all natural.”
When considering gifts, Yashar recommends “something that captures Milanese craftsmanship.” Merù Gioielli’s enameled charms are a Milanese tradition, says Maccapani Missoni, noting that the cherub figures are often given to newborns. Vintage fashion boutiques are a particular strength in Milan, but Cavalli e Nastri, Franco Jacassi’s Vintage Delirium, and Madame Pauline stand out.