Sep 10
1
Top 5 Fall Trends – The Italian Edition
Trend #1: The Structured Handbag
Prada, Valentino, Giorgio Armani, & Versace are just a few names that come to mind when thinking of Italian fashion. Italy certainly leads the way in style and trends, especially when it comes to handbags. Italy is the master of luxury leather and opulent designs. The stunning structured handbags pictured are commonly found in shopping hubs, such as Florence and Montepulciano, around Italy. They range from $63-$126 and come in several colors and textiles. They cause quite a stir in the United States. As an owner of one of these fashionable delights, you are sure to be the subject of envy.
Trend #2: Pearls
Pearls are a girl’s best friend… when diamonds are being a bitch.
While pondering the winding roads of Pienza searching for some fashion finds, we stumbled upon a tiny little jewelry shop with jaw-dropping gems. However, Alcozer & J Jewelry stole the show as well as the euros from our wallets. Fans of the fabulous brand ever since, we’ve been anticipating the release of their latest collection and it does not disappoint. Keeping on trend Alcozer & J’s glass pearls make their way into some of the collection’s most coveted pieces. Check out some of our favorites. To die for.
Trend #3: Boots
The Antica Cuoieria shop in Florence carries an array of authentic Italian leather boots. But that’s not all, a visit to this local gem will likely result in at least a few shoe purchases. Antica Cuoieria manages to keep up with the trends and maintain their unique designs all at the same time. It’s no wonder why the locals are such fans of this genuine Italian shoe boutique.
Trend #4: Capes & Ponchos
Italian designer, Missoni showed their Fall 2010 collection in Milan this February. In true Italian form, the designs predicted a popular trend for this fall: Capes and Ponchos. Missoni puts their signature twist on the poncho using colorful and playful fabrics. The Missoni store in Milan along with high-end boutiques around the country boast all the latest ready-to-wear fashions.
And, if Missoni is out of your budget or just out of your way you can find equally lavish designs in the San Lorenzo Market in Florence. Choose from a wide selection of colors and fabrics including cashmere and Merino wool.
Trend #5: Lace
As wedding planners for Weddings Under The Tuscan Sun, we are very familiar with the wedding gowns Tuscany has to offer. We’ve had the pleasure of being exposed to some gorgeous authentic Italian designs and meeting their designers. But when it comes to lace nothing quite compares to that of Atelier Aimee. At the boutique in Florence, the lace adorns the windows demanding the attention of those strolling by. The use of Chantilly lace, whether it accents the neckline or gives a feminine touch to a bustier, is simply stunning.
Aug 10
31
Tailor-Made Tuscan Escape
This is your chance ladies!
For a limited time Girls Fun Under the Tuscan Sun is offering a chance for you and your gal pals to completely customize a trip to Tuscany, Italy. You and the girls can choose everything from the date to the activities and we will take care of the rest! Let us tailor an entire trip itinerary to your specific travel requirements and requests. Your wish is our command and with our partners Exclusive Country Tours anything is possible.
If you’re interested or would like to learn more please contact us!
The beautiful view from Castello Banfi, one of the most prized wineries in the region.
Jul 10
30
Eat, Pray, Love Getaway
Eat the gastronomic delights of the Tuscan region, Pray you find that perfect handbag, Love every minute of it…
Introductory Prices start from $2200-$2500 per person based on Double Occupancy.
*Single occupancy is available upon request
This includes transportation, hotel accommodations, excursions, meals included on the itinerary and breakfast daily at Villa Poggiano.
*Airfare is not included
DAY 1: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2010
- Arrival in Florence airport. Private transfer to Montepulciano to your home away from home while in Italy, Villa Poggiano.
- Enjoy a traditional Tuscan welcome dinner at the Villa accompanied by the fine wine of the region.
DAY 2: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010
The crème de la crème for the true Fashionista, a trip to Il Borro, The Ferragamo Estate
- The estate which sits at the foot of the mountains in Valdarno now covers around 1755 acres is now managed by Salvatore Ferragamo. He is successfully developing two major projects; those of offering its guests this corner of Tuscany and its luxury accommodation experience made of private villas and exclusive country houses, and fine wines tasting to make their stay at Il Borro Estate an unforgettable experience.
- In the Borro village they have their own “Artisans Mall”. Here you can purchase traditional crafts skillfully created by local Artisans. Choose from a selection of unique pieces of jewelry by David and Massimo, ceramics and glassware by Maddalena, handmade shoes, tasteful gifts and original items for the home.
- Your excursion will include a visit to the wine cellars and tasting, a refined lunch at the Osteria and last but not least shopping in the artisan mall.
DAY 3: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2010
The perfect excursion for the food and wine enthusiast
- Brunello Di Montalcino - You will embark on a journey to the wine area of Montalcino and stop at a boutique winery. Here, you will meet the owner who will show the estate and the ancient art of wine making that belongs to the family since generations. You will have the opportunity to taste their outstanding Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino, served with delicious Pecorino cheese and local ham. Next, continue to the small village of Sant’Angelo in Colle for a terrific lunch in a typical trattoria where you can indulge in handmade pasta and several kinds of “antipasti” served with a fine local wine. After lunch it’s onto Montalcino where you will enjoy a relaxing stroll in the town center, while admiring the breathtaking views all around! Final stop of the day is to a second winery where you will experience a private tasting of Brunello and Supertuscan wines.
DAY 4: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2010
Shop til you Drop in Florence
- Explore the major boutiques with our personal shopper as well as the hidden gems of Tuscany. If you love great finds and tailor made items, our unique shopping itineraries are perfect for you. We have an insider’s list of the best spots for handbags, wallets, leather jackets, cashmere and silk scarves, murano glass and jewelry. While shopping, soak in the historic surroundings, majestic buildings and piazzas dating back to the 1200’s.
- Dinner at one of the finest restaurants in the Valdorcia area, Ristorante La Chiusa.
*cost of dinner is not included in price of trip
DAY 5: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2010
Rest and Relax Under the Tuscan Sun
- After a tough 4 days in Tuscany it’s time for rest and relaxation at the Fonteverde Spa.
- Fonteverde is a Spa of wellbeing amidst the Sienese hills, with rich thermal spring waters full of therapeutic gifts for the body discovered by the ancient Etruscans.
- Bathe in warm, restoring pools, and feel the massage of water jets that generate both tone and energy.
- Take advantage of the wide range of exclusive treatments created by their team of specialists designed to unite the precious properties of thermal spa waters with manual techniques, physiotherapy and science. Complete health and beauty spa experiences for face and body.
Please see full menu of Spa Services
*treatments are not included in package price
DAY 6: MONDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2010
- Depart Italy - Private transfer from Villa Poggiano to Florence airport
Jun 10
23
Tuscan Sun Festival Trip Ininerary
The Tuscan Sun Festival featuring Sting
Introductory Prices start from $2200-$2500 per person based on Double Occupancy.
This includes transportation, hotel accommodations, excursions, meals included on the itinerary and breakfast daily at Relais La Corte Dei Papi.
*Airfare is not included
Depart from United States on Saturday, July 31st, 2010 for arrival in Florence, Italy on August 1, 2010.
DAY 1: SUNDAY AUGUST 1, 2010
- Arrive in Florence, where transportation awaits to take you to your home away from home during your stay in Tuscany.
- Relais La Corte Dei Papi is situated in Tuscany, only minutes from the enchanting Cortona, the small hill town made famous by Francis Mayes’s Under the Tuscan Sun. This ancient Manor-House dating back to 1700’s is ideal for those who would like to enjoy traditional local atmosphere, Tuscan hospitality and exceptional personal service. It is often referred to as the “hidden gem” of Tuscany.
- Enjoy a special dinner that evening hosted by Relais owner, David Papi, featuring a variety of traditional Tuscan fare.
DAY 2: MONDAY AUGUST 2, 2010
“Shop till you Drop” in Florence
- You will be whisked away by Exclusive Country Tours to Florence, the city of the Renaissance, filled with art, beauty, fashion, and culture.
- Upon arrival your first stop with be to a historical Sartoria (a tailor’s workshop) where you will be welcomed with a champagne reception.
- If you love shopping and tailor made items this is the perfect place to start. The San Lorenzo market is where you will find the best bargains in Florence. We have an insider’s list of the best spots for handbags, wallets, leather jackets, cashmere and silk scarves, murano glass and jewelry.
- While shopping, soak in the historic surroundings, majestic buildings and piazzas dating back to the 1200’s.
DAY 3: TUESDAY AUGUST 3, 2010
The Perfect Excursion for the Food and Wine Enthusiast
- Your day starts with a trip to Montelchino for a Brunello wine tour and a visit to a boutique winery with aging cellars, homemade olive oil, bread, salami and of course a wine tasting.
- Then it is off to lunch for an authentic Tuscan meal in one of the local Trattorias.
- After lunch the last stop is Montepulciano (one of our favorite cities) where scenes from New Moon, the 2nd movie in the Twilight Saga was filmed.
- Montelpuciano is known world-wide for its fabulous wine. Wine connoisseurs consider its Vino Nobile among Italy’s best.
- This is also the home to some of the best shopping secrets of Tuscany, which includes a Pratesi leather outlet store. Girls who are shoe and handbag fans (and what woman isn’t); this is where it is at!!!
DAY 4: WEDNESDAY AUGUST 4, 2010
Rest and Relax Under the Tuscan Sun
- After a tough 2 days of shopping it is now time to rest and relaxat at the Fonteverde Spa.
- Fonteverde, is a Spa of wellbeing amidst the Sienese hills, with rich thermal spring waters full of therapeutic gifts for the body discovered by the ancient Etruscans.
- Bathe in warm, restoring pools, and feel the massage of water jets that generate both tone and energy.
- Take advantage of the wide range of exclusive treatments created by their team of specialists designed to unite the precious properties of thermal spa waters with manual techniques, physiotherapy and science. Complete health and beauty spa experiences for face and body: whether the aesthetic touch or entire strategies for balance and wellbeing.
Please see full menu of Spa Services
*treatments are not included in package price
DAY 5: THURSDAY AUGUST 5, 2010
The Crème de la Crème for the True Fashionista, a Trip to Il Borro, The Ferragamo Estate
- The Ferragamo estate, which sits at the foot of the mountains in Valdarno now covers around 1755 acres, is now managed by Salvatore Ferragamo. He is successfully developing two major projects; offering guests a luxury experience in Tuscany including private villas and exclusive country houses, and fine wines tasting to make their stay at Il Borro Estate an unforgettable experience.
- In the Borro village has their own “Artisans Mall”. Here you can purchase traditional crafts skillfully created by local Artisans. Choose from a selection of unique pieces of jewelry by David and Massimo, ceramics and glassware by Maddalena, handmade shoes, tasteful gifts and original items for the home.
- Your excursion will include a visit to the wine cellars and tasting, a refined lunch at the Osteria and last but not least shopping in the artisan mall.
The Tuscan Sun Festival Featuring Sting
The Tuscan Sun Festival is an annual music and art festival that takes place within the intimate setting of the medieval town of Cortona, in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany.
For a listing of events please visit: http://www.tuscansunfestival.com/
7:00pm-7:40 p.m. – Toasting Tuscany
- Enjoy sampling some of the best local meats, cheeses and award winning wines alongside an assortment gourmet canapés as part of a series of Pre Concert Receptions showcasing locally produced food and wine. Set in a medieval courtyard just 2 minutes walk to the Theatre, different local wine estates will be featured each day while a renowned local restaurateur will cater the reception with locally sourced produce.
8:00 p.m. – You will be escorted to your VIP balcony seats to watch the performance of the
- “Twin Spirits” Concert portraying the love of Robert and Clara Schumann in words and music, featuring Sting and Trudie Styler as well as Joshua Bell (violin) and Nina Kotova (cello).
*Proceeds go to the Rainforest Fund, Del Sole Foundation and Royal Opera House Education Fund
DAY 6: AUGUST 6, 2010
- Depart Relais La Corte Dei Papi to Florence airport for your journey back to the United States
Need To Get Away With The Girls?
Girls Fun Under the Tuscan Sun and Exclusive Country Tours have partnered to create the ultimate girls getaway experience.
With more than ten years experience, Exclusive Country Tours has developed a vast knowledge of Italy and established privileged relationships with private drivers, city guides, boutique wineries, personal shoppers and superb restaurants, to guarantee you a first class service.
Perfect for Bachelorette Parties, Birthday Celebrations, Graduation Trips or just a getaway from everyday life for you and your friends.
Just a sample of what you can experience on your "girls week out."
- Incredible shopping trips to the best kept secrets in Florence and Tuscany
- Wine Tours and Tastings
- Helicopter Wine Tours
- Cooking Classes with the local experts
- Explore the country's famous sites and hidden gems.
- Indulge in Italy's most luxurious Spas
- Dine in the region's finest Trattoria's and 5 Star restaurants.
- Dance the night away in Florence's hottest nightclubs
The possibilities are endless. From the simple to the sublime, no request is out of reach.
*Luxury transportation is provided
