Outlet shopping in Italy
Yes, we know. The world economy is on the brink of disaster.
All that talk of doom and gloom leaves us anything but impervious to the financial crunch.
We’re all stressed to the point of defeat, and people have different ways of managing the strain. Some meditate to boost their chi, others run like there’s no tomorrow and some devour copious amounts of junk (my personal favorite).
With most plane fares going down, and a bit of hard-earned pesos set aside, some of us choose to travel…and shop. It’s not an excuse; it’s our way of dealing.
That said, should you opt to indulge your wanderlust and wish to go further than Manila, travel past Hong Kong, forego New York and find yourself lucky with a plane ticket to Italy, take this list with you.
This short list of outlets is guaranteed to make your designer-loving heart go a-flutter and most importantly, give you major mileage for your peso.
There are always two big Saldi (sale) seasons in Italy (read: further markdown on items already on sale): one in January, another in July. Both begin on the first Saturday of the month and last for six weeks.
If you can’t make it in time for either, don’t despair. You’ll find a bargain at these outlets all year round, except in August when the whole of Italy is on vacation — many of the city establishments shut down and everyone heads for the hills, or the beach.
Florence
Lo Spaccio/Space — Località Levanella, 52025 Montevarchi, +39 055 91 901.
Here you’ll find all things Prada, MiuMiu, Helmut Lang, Jil Sander, Car Shoe and Church. Prada Sport leather sneakers go for around €100, MiuMiu flats start at €60, wallets at €80, pants for €30 and dresses start at €120. Prada bowler bags go for as low as €500. That’s a third of its actual retail price. Classic black nylon bags start at €150.
The Mall — Via Europa 8, 50060 Leccio, Reggello, +39 055 865 7775, www.themall.it
Some people refer to this as “The Gucci Outlet” for good reason; it had the biggest footprint in the area until other brands came along. All stores at The Mall carry bags, accessories and clothes that are generally tagged at 30-40 percent off of retail; possibly 50-70 percent during saldi season.
MILAN
Il Salvagente — Via Fratelli Bronzetti 16, +39 02 7611 0328, www.salvagentemilano.it
The gang’s all here: Margiela, Comme des Garçons, Dries Van Noten, Yohji, etc. Clothes and accessories discounted at 50-70 percent. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Mothership. But don’t come in August when they’re closed.
Dmagazine Outlet — Via Montenapoleone 26, +39 02 7600 6027, www.dmagazine.it
Will first appear to be a hole in the wall but racks of clothing and shelves of accessories extend well into the building. Digging and patience required. Major discounts on Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs, Marni, Judy Blame, Vivienne Westwood and the like.
10 Corso Como Outlet — Via Tazzoli 3, +39 02 2901 5130, www.10corsocomo.com
Proprietor and former Italian Vogue editrix, Carla Sozzani has finally taken pity on us mortals. She has gifted us with a shopping mecca for the budget conscious. Last season’s stock is down by 50-70 percent. Online shopping is available soon. But closed for two weeks in August.
Tips:
1. Always remember to call ahead. Days and hours are subject to sudden changes. Also, most hotel concierges of reputable hotels will assist you with hours of operation, directions, transportation and organized outlet tours.
2. You’ll get into a tizzy from all this shopping. Do not get distracted and forget to claim your “VAT back” form at the time of purchase. As non-EU residents, we get tax refunds on purchases with a total of over €154.94 from any store that participates in tax-free shopping. In this economic environment, every centavo counts.
