Buon Sant’Ambrogio, lovelies!
If you are currently looking out the window in Milan, you might be seeing a very classic, moody grey sky. It is officially the start of the Ponte dell’Immacolata (the long weekend), and while the weather forecast predicts rain for today, the energy in the city is anything but gloomy.
Milan officially wakes up to Christmas this weekend. From the scent of roasted chestnuts at the castle to the glittering lights of the Galleria, the festive season is here. But the big question remains: How do we stay chic when the weather is “London grey” but the mood is pure “Milanese glamour”?
Today on the blog, I am sharing a curated edit of what to wear this weekend – balancing the reality of the rain with the sparkle of the season.
The Reality: Surviving the Rain in Style
Let’s be honest – styling for rain can be tricky. But in Milan, practicality is the new luxury. For today (Friday), ditch the heavy wool coat which absorbs water and dampens the spirit.
Instead, reach for a lacquered or vinyl trench. The high-shine texture looks incredibly editorial against the grey streets and keeps you dry. Pair this with chunky Chelsea boots (think Bottega vibes). The cobblestones around Brera are slippery when wet, so rubber soles are your best friend today. Save your delicate suede pumps for Sunday!
The Weekend Agenda: Where We Are Going
The city is buzzing with tradition this weekend. Here is where you will find the fashion crowd:
- Oh Bej! Oh Bej! (Dec 5-8): The historic market at Castello Sforzesco. It is rustic and crowded, so keep your bag close (a chic crossbody is essential) and wear your warmest layers.
- The Duomo Tree Lighting (Dec 6): Tomorrow is the official lighting. It’s the perfect excuse to debut your festive accessories.
- Prima della Scala (Dec 7): Even if you aren’t attending the opera, the city centre will be full of black-tie energy. It is the night Milan dresses up.
The “It” Look: Your Go-To Festive Outfit
If you pack one outfit for this long weekend, make it the “Texture Clash.” This is the secret to that effortless Italian style.
My favourite formula right now is a bias-cut silk slip skirt paired with an oversized, chunky mohair knit. The contrast between the shiny silk and the fuzzy wool feels expensive and cosy.
The Colour Palette of 2025: We are moving away from bright “Santa Red” this year. The shade of the moment is Oxblood (Deep Burgundy). It is richer, more sophisticated, and looks stunning on everyone. Mix this with Liquid Silver accents—gold is classic, but silver is the “cool girl” choice for Winter 2025.
Join the Conversation
I will be out and about this weekend capturing the street style and the festive lights. I would love to see how you are styling your layers!
Are you braving the rain for the markets, or staying cosy indoors with a slice of Panettone? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @ArielThi.
Have a wonderful Sant’Ambrogio weekend!
With love, Thi x
