The Fine Art of Family Magazine

For the longest time, I used to associate the word “chic” with simplicity and Audrey Hepburn. I’d picture the elegant actress wearing a crisp white shirt and skinny black pants. But when I lived in Italy some years ago, the word suddenly took on a new meaning. One day I came across this Italian woman on a bicycle wearing one color from head to toe: purple. In three different shades! She looked fantastic. That’s when I started to question maybe chic isn’t limited to just black and white (and gray in between)?

I’m not surprised that a trip to Italy—home of Milan, the fashion capital of the world—would introduce me to new, stunning styles. After all, there is no shortage of famous fashion houses in that country. Among the most chic, in my opinion, is Missoni. The luxury empire is also a master of color.

In 1953, newlyweds Rosita and Ottavia Missoni (who met at the 1948 Olympics where Ottavia was on the track team) began working on knitwear for athletes in their basement. Five years later, they unveiled a fashion collection that would set the tone for their long-lasting signature style: Bright kaleidoscope knits woven in distinctive geometric patterns (stripes or zigzags). Since its debut more than half a century ago, Missoni’s playful designs, described by some as “color fireworks,” are represented in a wide number of pieces from dresses to bathing suits.

Although everything Missoni is completely covetable, my favorite is their scarves. For those of us who don’t usually wear a lot of color (myself included), their classic scarf is a great way to sneak in some “fireworks” as chic Italian women do. Bold and sophisticated, the Missoni scarf is flattering on everyone, regardless of personal style. And, well, because we don’t live in a black and white world, we should all learn to embrace a little color.

[Photography by Antonio Lopez via Bijou Living.com (left) and staff photographer (right).]

Published on February 16, 2010

Tags: Built to Last, Celebrating, Fashion