Choosing a wedding dress is arguably one of the most important fashion decisions. After all, anyone getting married wants to feel like the best version of themselves. Modern brides also face pressure to find “the one”—a dress that earns compliments in person, gets featured in magazines, lands on Pinterest boards, and inspires strangers online to leave kind comments.

But what if the dress of one's dreams isn't just one piece? For people getting married in 2027, the answer may be a wedding wardrobe: a collection of looks that lets the bride embrace different versions of herself throughout the celebration while taking some pressure off finding a single gown that does it all.

At fall 2027 Bridal Fashion Week in New York, designers presented their latest visions for what cool wedding style will look like. Who What Wear editors like me were there in person to get a first glimpse at what is new and next, and one major through line emerged: Bridal dressing no longer begins and ends with the ceremony gown. Instead, designers are bringing together statement-making aisle looks, second dresses, and thoughtfully designed pieces for every moment before and after the couple says "I do."

Houses like Francesca Miranda, Kyha, and Galia Lahav are among those exploring this more expansive approach to bridal style—and the timing makes sense. This year, it seems as though every part of the wedding experience has become its own fashion moment. The most notable example is Dua Lipa, who made a statement in a white Schiaparelli couture skirt suit with a wide-brim Stephen Jones hat for her courthouse ceremony. But that was only one part of her viral wedding celebration. It was followed by a multiday extravaganza in Sicily, where she wore Versace, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and Chloé. Beyond Lipa, though, others within the style set are also maximizing the wedding moments, turning everything from Sunday brunch to getting a marriage license into an excuse to dress up. For the fashion bride, one gown hardly covers it all anymore.

As collections expand to accommodate more moments, designers are also looking backward for inspiration. Across the fall 2027 collections, the clothes carried an unmistakable sense of the past, but nothing about how they were made to be worn felt dated. Monique Lhuillier drew inspiration from three decades of craftsmanship to explore a new expression of modern bridal elegance. Corsetry took center stage, sculpting the body with precise structure, while timeless necklines were revisited with a contemporary sensibility, and a subtle nod to vintage lingerie appeared in barely there lace sheaths on a romantic dusty-rose slip gown. Emilia Wickstead's collection revived the enduring elegance of old-world glamour for today—a classicism that feels very much alive. At House of Gilles, Victorian influences emerged through slim silhouettes softened by cascading ruffles or fine French lace, giving them the tenderness of something treasured and passed down.

With New York Bridal Fashion Week setting the tone for what's to come, it's safe to say there are no set rules for bridal dressing, just more room for personal expression. But that's only part of the story. From necklines and silhouettes to colors and accessories, discover the 10 wedding dress trends that stood out and will define how 2027 brides dress.

Top Wedding Dress Trends of Fall 2027

Architectural Florals

From Pnina Tornai and Monique Lhuillier to Amsale and Floure, bridal designers—established and emerging—are reimagining florals through sculptural silhouettes and dimensional embellishments. These big, bold, and beautiful flowers, in full bloom, are hand-sculpted, layered, and applied across dresses of various scales and volumes, bringing artistry and realism to the wedding gown. This dress trend is for the bride who isn't afraid to be unapologetically herself—the main character with a distinct personal style.

Sculptural Hips

Gowns with exaggerated hips are adding a sculptural touch to bridal fashion. Drawing on traditional couture techniques, the silhouette creates a striking sense of proportion and shape, turning the skirt into a statement of its own. Whether achieved through architectural construction or layers of gathered fabric, the result is eye-catching and elegant.

Pretty in Blush

The bridal color palette continues to move beyond traditional stark white and even cream. For fall 2027, soft blush tones are emerging as a leading choice—in step with the spring 2027 collections, where bold reds and purples made a striking statement. More subdued than their brighter counterparts, dusty pinks bring warmth and personality to classic bridal silhouettes. For those wondering, this shade, which sits between pastel pink and neutral beige or peach, appears in dresses that aren't just for rehearsal dinners or after-party looks but also for the main ceremony.

Lace, Amplified

Lace is one of bridal fashion's signature materials, but it's no longer merely used in a decorative way. It's now more integral to a gown's construction, shaping silhouettes, defining structure, and creating depth through thoughtful placement and intricate craftsmanship. Lace fabrics are also moving beyond the standard. Designers such as Vivienne Westwood are exploring varieties, introducing Rose Lattice Lace, Alençon Lace, and Scattered Roses Cordonnet Lace, instead of relying on delicate Chantilly.

Accessories With Attitude

When designers presented their spring 2027 collections in April, bridal accessories took center stage, with head adornments emerging as a defining trend. However, designers moved beyond traditional veils, embracing sculpted calotte caps, Juliet caps, wide-brimmed hats, and headbands. In the fall 2027 collections, accessories evolved further to include statement outerwear and dramatic layers—capes, boleros, detachable trains, and overskirts—offering versatile options to instantly transform a look throughout the wedding celebration. Most notably, jewelry is making a statement. From chokers with floral appliqués that looked like part of the dress to statement earrings that elevated simple gowns, bridal jewelry no longer means just diamonds and pearls.

Beyond the Ceremony

Bridal style is no longer confined to a single aisle gown. With multiday wedding celebrations, brides want a curated wardrobe with tailored looks for every moment—and designers are delivering. From Kyha and Francesca Miranda to Cinq and Lein, bridal brands are rewriting the rules with fresh, fashion-forward takes on wedding dressing. And many are inspired by ready-to-wear collections. Think vintage-like mini slip dresses, fitted jacket-and-skirt sets, and barely there halterneck tops paired with capri pants. More outfit changes, more fashion moments, more fun!

The Cat-Eye Comeback

Strapless wedding dresses remain a bridal favorite, but the cat-eye neckline is once again in the spotlight—a fitting return given the cyclical nature of bridal trends. The silhouette appeared in collections by Justin Alexander, Pnina Tornai, Marmar Halim, and Lee Petra Grebenau, many of which drew inspiration from the early to mid–20th century. Today’s interpretations differ from those of the past, focusing on a shallow curve that dips across the bust. Many were framed by two sharp points at the sides, while others had more rounded edges, but all brought personality to the classic strapless silhouette.

Crafted to Couture

Wedding gowns hold great personal significance and represent a meaningful investment, so every detail matters, and bridal designers took that to heart, showcasing their devotion to craft in their fall 2027 collections. From intricate handwork and thoughtful embellishment placement to fabric choices and finishing touches, every detail felt deliberate and precise.

Exposed Boning

Corset-inspired construction continues to evolve, taking a more refined approach for the year ahead. Rather than allowing structured boning to peek through sheer fabrics like Chantilly lace, designers integrated it into the fabric, revealing sleek lines that contour the body and create elegant definition. This considered softness makes the corsetry feel anything but restrictive, especially when bodices are paired with romantic, flowing skirts in tulle, silk charmeuse, or duchess satin.

Trumpet Glam

At the more fitted end of fall 2027 bridal dress trends is the trumpet gown. This style resembles a mermaid silhouette, hugging the body from the chest to the knees before flaring dramatically. Designers generally let the silhouette speak for itself, using simple yet elevated fabrics like duchess silk and classic necklines like scoop necks to draw attention to the hems while keeping the overall look clean and sophisticated—not dated.

Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

This month, Who What Wear is celebrating its 20th anniversary. To commemorate two decades of spotlighting tastemakers and style leaders, we're dedicating October to guests who have shaped the fashion industry and cultural conversation since Who What Wear's inception. This week, it's Jen Atkin!

Celebrity hairstylist and founder Jen Atkin has always loved pop culture and glam.

"I grew up '80s, MTV. Obsessed with Paula Abdul, Madonna, Janet Jackson," Atkin said. "I just loved glam."

After moving to Los Angeles with her best friend, Atkin began knocking on salon doors looking for a job.

"I started literally going door to door to salons and asking if I could be a receptionist," Atkin said. "I got a really great job at a salon that was the buzzy place to be."

The rest is history. Since landing her first gig, Atkin has worked with everyone from the Kardashians to Hailey Bieber.

For the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Atkin sat down with Hillary Kerr to share how she got her start in the industry, how she founded Ouai and Mane Addicts, and more.

To read excerpts from the conversation, scroll below.

Talk to me about how you first fell in love with hair and makeup?

I grew up '80s, MTV. Obsessed with Paula Abdul, Madonna, Janet Jackson. I just loved glam.

I loved makeover scenes in movies, and I really didn't know that it could be a job.

The way I got into it is I left my little hometown of St. George, Utah, with my best friend, Lindsay.

We came to L.A., $300 in my pocket. I write about it in my book. Had no idea what was about to happen to our lives.

I started literally going door to door to salons and asking if I could be a receptionist. I got a really great job at a salon that was the buzzy place to be.

I met Jess Alba there back in 2003, I want to say. From there, I just assisted for a really long time. I really worked very hard, honed in on my craft. I learned from as many people as I could.

Once I outgrew the salon—it was 15 years in the salon—once I outgrew that, I started doing hair backstage for fashion shows, and the rest is history.

So Mane Addicts started first and then Ouai.

Yeah so Mane Addicts was out of my kitchen. Mike [Rosenthal] and I, when we had our first place together. A condo. Mane Addicts was in 2014.

Then 2016 is when Ouai launched. The way that I described everyone now, because I do get asked that question sometimes on social, like, what's the difference between Ouai and Mane?

I'm like, okay, you know Prada? Mane is Miu Miu.

We started out with tools. I wanted to innovate after working with Dyson for six years. I wanted to innovate in thermal heat styling, and I wasn't on the market.

How did you build Ouai while still having such a busy, wild career?

I got to go back to 2014, when I was jotting down the idea of what I wanted it to be and going around and asking anybody I knew that knew anybody with money if they wanted to invest.

I remember, at the time, I was very busy. I was really, really busy. I wasn't in the salon, but I was working with celebrities.

I also knew this brand needed to happen and this was before—and it's table stakes now that a brand is digitally connected—but this was before there was any of that.

I wanted it to really be the first digitally connected haircare brand.

I remember reading in The New York Times that you were named the most influential hairstylist in the world in 2015. Do you remember that article? Do you have it saved somewhere?

You know what? We lost it in the fire. My amazing husband reached out to The New York Times, and he got a copy sent to us.

Oh, that's amazing! What did it feel like to have that level of acclaim? Did you feel comfortable? Could you acknowledge it?

Hillary, you know me well. I am not like high highs. I'm not low lows, and I also don't get off on validation at all. It's one of my superpowers to be honest. I don't get overly stressed.

You're an even-keeled person.

I am. I don't know if it's, maybe I'm a disassociater. Who knows?

I feel honored by it. I do. And I feel there are moments where I'm like, Oh my god, I can't believe that happened. But I don't get off on it, if that makes sense. I just don't get off on validation. I never wanted to win awards. I don't really ever participate in any of that stuff, because I don't think I'm the best.

I think I'm really good at business, at running business. I think I'm good at a lot of things. I'm good at staying calm when things are tense. I'm good at caretaking, and I'm good at being professional and showing up, but I'm not the best hairdresser. You know, there are a lot of amazing hairdressers, so I felt honored.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, cofounder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.

If Monica Padman's name sounds familiar in the Second Life space, you're right. The visionary podcast producer and host has made her triumphant return to the podcast—on video—since we last sat down with her five years ago. In 2021, she shared her early dream of becoming an actress and how she ultimately became a creative partner to Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. Her career then evolved from producer to co-host of the massive hit Armchair Expert, ultimately carving out her own niche in the business.

Armchair Expert launched in 2018 and quickly stood out, becoming Apple’s most-downloaded podcast of the year and winning an iHeart Radio Award for Best New Podcast. Known for vulnerable, honest talks with guests ranging from Kristen Bell to Ashton Kutcher and Jimmy Kimmel, the show built a devoted following of “Armcherries.” Behind the scenes, Padman produces the series, books guests, edits, and manages promotions while serving as on-air co-host and fact-checker.

Now, rather than entering her “third life,” Padman has continued to grow in her dual role. She and Shepard expanded Armchair Expert, earning a 2026 Golden Globes nomination in the inaugural Best Podcast category. She has also been instrumental in adding numerous shows under the Armchair umbrella. Most recently, she branched into true crime with the riveting podcast Beth’s Dead, which is now entering production for season 2.

Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to hear how Padman is transforming podcasting's ever-evolving landscape and expanding what it means to create and host meaningful audio storytelling.

Next: Kristina Blahnik on Preserving and Expanding Manolo Blahnik's Legacy

For today's couples, wedding registries are less about stocking up on household essentials and more about finding beautifully made pieces they might not buy for themselves. From artisanal homeware to hard-to-find designer objects, the focus is on gifts that feel special to receive, rewarding to give, and meaningful long after the wedding celebrations have ended.

"Couples are feeling Amazon-white-ceramic-plate-fatigue and are leaning into more intricate, unique tabletop that doesn’t come with two-day shipping," Angel Hawwa, co-founder of Vita Curata, a new modern registry platform, tells Who What Wear. Rather than defaulting to traditional fine china and silver, couples are gravitating toward pieces that feel distinctive enough to display on open shelves yet functional enough for everyday use.

That philosophy is at the heart of Vita Curata, which Hawwa co-founded with Brinn Leist to rethink the traditional wedding registry. "Traditional registries are built around volume and function, which overwhelm rather than inspire," Hawwa says. "We curate custom registries that include a highly edited selection of gifts that reflect a couple's taste and style." The name derives from the Latin word cura, meaning care, and reflects the founders’ personal approach to helping couples celebrate this next chapter.

The idea grew out of watching friends who already lived together struggle to build registries filled with things they actually wanted. "It was an afterthought in a process that is so thoughtful in every other aspect," Hawwa says. "So we built a registry that people can get excited about."

The platform brings together well-known labels, independent artisans, and emerging labels you wouldn't find at a department store. It also offers experiential gifts for couples who prefer something beyond a physical present. "The commonality is that it all feels luxurious, just like the wedding you’re planning," Hawwa says.

Although Vita Curata is only four months old, more than 700 registries have already been created, many by fashion and beauty insiders. "The coolest, most fashion-forward brides right now are obsessed with the selection at Porta," Hawwa says, noting that the Carlotta Vase and Artichoke Bowl have been particularly popular. The platforms' users are also loving items from Italian brands like Missoni, Seletti, Ivo Angel, Coralla Maiuri, and Mario Luca Giusti.

To get a deeper look into what stylish couples actually want, I asked some of the chicest bride-to-be to share a snippet of their wedding registries. From Tiffany & Co. espresso cups to a pink iPad, keep scrolling to see their selections.

Abby Price, Founder of Abbode

Instagram: @abbyeprice

Asalia Yusupova, Model

Instagram: @asaliayusupova

Rae Harrison, Private Stylist and Shopper

Instagram: @stretchnfetch

Emma Hughes, Associate Social Media Editor, Who What Wear

Instagram: @emmmahugh

Matilda Djerf, Founder & Chief Creative Officer of Djerf Avenue

Instagram: @matildadjerf

Reilly Krug, Content Creator and Founder of Reilly The Label

Instagram: @lifeofreillyyy

The deep-V-neck wedding dress is back. Once a hallmark of the late 2010s, the plunging neckline may feel nostalgic rather than trend-forward to some brides. But for fall 2027, Australian bridal label Kyha Studios is offering a fresh take on the silhouette and reaffirming its place in the modern bride's wardrobe.

The standout piece is Bailey, a directional take on the classic ball gown and arguably a hero look from the brand's latest collection. Crafted from lustrous duchess satin, the gown features artfully placed architectural draping and sculptural folds that flow into a sweeping train. Its fitted bodice and deep-V neckline contrast with the skirt's exaggerated proportions.

Bailey is just one expression of the design direction behind Kyha's latest offerings, though. For its new collection, titled Josephine, the line offers 26 pieces that look past one bridal trend in favor of a more individual approach to wedding dressing.

Inspired by the eclectic spirit of 1970s Spain, Josephine spans necklines, silhouettes, and moods with options for brides whose personal styles extend well beyond one aesthetic. That diversity is intentional. "We wanted Josephine to reflect that shift toward a more individual approach to bridal style," says Kyha Scott, the brand's founder and creative director.

Josephine was also intentionally conceived to reflect how modern brides are thinking about their wedding wardrobes in 2026 and beyond. "[We're seeing] brides move beyond viewing their wedding as a single event—instead seeing it as a series of distinct celebrations centered around the aisle moment," Claire Murphy, CEO of Kyha Studios, tells Who What Wear. "One in five Kyha brides now purchase more than one look from us."

Alongside ball gowns like Bailey, Cleo, and Torres, the collection features fitted long-sleeve silk dresses, such as Palma and Lola, and playful minis, such as Fiorito and Pacha. Together, the styles offer possibilities for every moment—from bachelorette celebrations and rehearsal dinners to pre-wedding preparations, receptions, and after-parties. "[At the same time], the collection ensures that the most important moment of all, the defining walk down the aisle, remains at the heart of it," Murphy says.

Whether you're a bride-to-be starting your search or a fashion lover who enjoys browsing and bookmarking pretty wedding dresses, keep scrolling to discover Kyha's new collection.

Shop Kyha's V-Neck Wedding Gown

Discover More of Kyha's Fall 2027 Collection

Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

This month, Who What Wear is celebrating its 20th anniversary. To commemorate two decades of spotlighting tastemakers and style leaders, we're dedicating October to guests who have shaped the fashion industry and cultural conversation since Who What Wear's inception. This week, it's Jason Bolden!

Bolden, one of Hollywood's most influential stylists, got his start in the industry "accidentally" back in 2011 after his good friend Gabrielle Union asked for help finding a look for an event. On gaining momentum, Bolden says, "It took a while for a lot of people to recognize the body of work and the point of view." However, his roster of clients soon grew.

Since launching his career as a celebrity stylist, Bolden has worked with the likes of Nicole Kidman, Cynthia Erivo, and Michael B. Jordan. For the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Bolden sits down with Hillary Kerr to discuss getting his first big break in the styling industry, how he grew his loyal client roster, and how he developed his distinctive styling philosophy.

To read excerpts from their conversation, scroll below.

Can you walk our audience back to how you got started in this wonderful, wild industry?

I come from this classic Midwest family setup, so I thought I only had the options of doctor, attorney, teacher. But I was really lucky to have a grandmother who was obsessed with fashion and who would allow me to experience Saks Fifth Avenue with her and Neiman Marcus and Christian Dior, and the names go on and on. I got to experience it through her in that way, but I never knew that this could be a job.

So I go to Chicago, and it was kind of like my fashion mecca. I would go into these thrift stores where they would have anything you can fit in the shopping bag for $25. Then eventually, I would take all this stuff … back to my apartment, and we came up with this idea of this modern approach to vintage.

We did a pop-up, and we had this store called the Garment Room in SoHo. It kind of made a life of its own, and we were selling everything and working with everyone from Akris to Ralph Lauren. We were doing these design-inspiration suites for them.

And then I just get a little burnt out. I take some time off, and as a good friend does, I get a phone call from a friend, which was Gabrielle Union, and she's like, "I'm going to Art Basel. I need something to wear. Bring me some stuff."

And I'm like, "Ah, fine. I'll go there." I bring her this vintage Lanvin dress, and she ended up wearing this multicolored polyester Lanvin dress from the '70s.

I wasn't trying to be a stylist. I was just literally helping a girlfriend, and then I get a phone call from a publication. It was like, "Hey, we want to talk about this look." All of a sudden, I read it, and it was like, "purveyor of fashion Jason Bolden." And I was like, "What? Like what? Now, I'm a stylist."

How did you start to decide, How am I building my roster? How am I building my client list? Who should I say yes to?

It took a while for a lot of people to recognize the body of work and the point of view. It took a while, but … what ends up happening is you put your horse blinders on, and you stay focused on the path. I had those on, but I always wanted to collect people like I like to collect books. I wanted to create what I wanted the perfect dinner table to look like, and that's what the clients began to look like—everyone from musicians to artists to directors to writers.

I want to talk about how you and Cynthia Erivo got together.

I get a phone call a night before [a shoot], and they say, "Hey, she's shooting a cover of a magazine. Would you be able to shoot her for this?" I was like, "She's already working with someone, and that's just not my thing." And they were like, "Well, the person isn't available." I was like, "Okay, this is the plan. I will come. I will set up. I will see her. I will show her the three looks, and then I'm gonna leave my assistant."

I go in. I meet her. I show her these three looks. And we're laughing, and she's super funny. I put her in the Fendi, and I'm like, "Okay, this is it. I leave, right?" I get a phone call saying, "Hey, would you want to do the Harriet tour?" And then that was the beginning of a relationship.

I came in, and I told her how I saw it: "Let's show the world what they're missing because they don't know quite yet." Sometimes, you have to be a little bit loud, but not the type of loud where people want to turn the radio down—the type where you want to turn it up and dance and sing with it, right?

It's one of those things where you get to work with one of those people who is a unicorn, and those don't come across that often in this business, where you have style, personality, acting chops like no other, and then the humility of this amazing woman who just wants to serve and service the planet. That stuff is rare.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Welcome to Fashion's Finest Stays, a travel series where we lend our fashion-editor POV to the world of hospitality. Here, we'll give you exclusive insider access to the world's most renowned hotels and resorts, uncovering every detail you'd ever want to know before you book.

Lake Como is known for its classical grandeur, from aristocratic villas and Italian gardens to storied lakeside hotels. I’d venture that this year’s arrival of The Lake Como EDITION (one of many exciting 2026 hotel debuts) brings a welcome change of pace to the scene. Set inside a restored 19th-century palazzo, it pairs the setting’s romance (Think: Bellagio sparkling across the water, mountains piercing the skyline) with EDITION’s distinctly contemporary sensibility. It feels like a fresh way to experience Como, and I’m not the only one who has been intrigued by the new addition. The opening weekend was attended by fashion fixtures like Christine Centenera, Gilda Ambrosio, Giorgia Tordini, Juergen Teller, and Maximilian Davis, and more recently, Martha Stewart made it a stop on her Italian vacation.

When I first arrived, one thing stood out immediately: the warmth of the welcome. There was none of the stiffness that can sometimes come with a five-star hotel, just genuine friendliness paired with highly attentive service that seemed to anticipate what I might need before I asked. Being part of Marriott Bonvoy brings a certain comfort in a familiar name associated with world-class hospitality, and the care here felt especially personal. I felt the urge to find the manager several times to compliment staff members who went above and beyond.

The second thing I noticed: the stunning design. It’s a collaboration between EDITION, design firm Neri&Hu (who have worked with fashion favorites Valextra and Selfridges), and architects De.Tales. The lobby’s details merit a second look: a sculptural marble staircase inspired by Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa and an open-air reflecting pool and fountain beside the brass elevators. Amid all the details unique to Lake Como, I was also glad to find a familiar EDITION touch: the signature pool table, a natural gathering spot.

The rooms have a few thoughtful little nods to the lake: the hand-tufted rug is a soft, pale blue, and many of the lakeside rooms still have their original French balconies, beautifully restored. Most elements embody EDITION’s design perspective such as Neri & Hu’s curved sofa and Calacatta marble coffee table. The marble-faced archways are especially photogenic, and I have a feeling they’ll make it into many a fashion girl’s vacation photo lineup.

The Longevity Spa makes it easy to lose track of time in the best way. There’s a large indoor thermal pool with the most gorgeous green tiles I’ve likely ever seen, plus a rotunda with a herbal sauna, Turkish bath, plunge pools, and treatment rooms. The spa menu is unique and has major range. Of course, they offer standard facials and massages, but also some intriguing options. For those interested in high-tech rejuvenation, there’s the Ultimate Biohacking service, which includes Dry Float Therapy, Near Infra-Red (NIR) technology, and Hydrogen Oxygen therapy. And if you’re into a more low-key option, there’s one focused on rituals from the Blue Zones.

A pool floating on a lake—what a concept. Staring out at the gorgeous boats parading by in Lake Como while having drinks and appetizers poolside is a special kind of bliss. The staff is exceptionally thoughtful throughout the property, but the folks at the pool were beyond. By the time we left, they felt like friends. Also, in peak season, there are plenty of lounge chairs and cabanas, so you never have to jockey for a spot. Finally, there’s a restaurant and lounge bar on its dock should you want a sit-down waterside dining experience. If you fancy a stroll beyond the property, the renowned Villa Carlotta (formerly Princess Charlotte’s home and now a museum and botanical garden) is less than a 15-minute walk down the Lake Como Greenway walking route.

There are a few different moods to eating at the hotel: Cetino is the jewel in the crown, helmed by Mauro Colagreco, whose restaurant Mirazur has three Michelin stars and a Green Star. Cetino is his first restaurant in Italy and focuses on seasonal ingredients, local producers, and the flavors of the region.

Renzo is made for long, easy meals on its terrace, with the lake in full view. Como is all about soaking up the preternaturally gorgeous landscape, so I found myself here on several occasions. My personal highlight was the Sicilian eggplant with smoked scamorza espuma. However, I’d also happily order the little zucchini tortelli, tucked into Parmigiano cream on repeat. I suppose I'll just have to come back next season, and build my vacation wardrobe until then.

Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, cofounder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.

Manolo Blahnik is perhaps the most beloved shoe and accessories brand in the world, and its secret to success lies in the soul of the family rather than the sole of the shoe. At the helm is Kristina Blahnik, who, naturally, grew up surrounded by the world of shoes.

As a child, she spent afternoons after school helping at the family's flagship store, learning the rhythm of the business without ever imagining she would one day lead it. Architecture called to her instead. She studied at the University of Cambridge, built her own practice, and worked as an architect for just under a decade. Then, in 2009, everything changed. Her uncle, Manolo, could no longer travel to the factories to develop the new collection, so she stepped in. What began as temporary help became a full-time commitment to the family company she had never planned to join.

Four years later, in 2013, she became CEO, though, candidly, she still prefers the title "creative strategist." Under her guidance, the brand has continued to evolve, growing from two boutiques to 20 and from a team of 26 to more than 250 people. Upholding Manolo's commitment to keeping the brand thoroughly modern, she has also led major collaborations that link Manolo Blahnik with houses ranging from Birkenstock to Balenciaga.

Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to hear how Blahnik continues to write her own chapter at the brand. The shoes remain at the center, but the story is hers: a careful expansion built on family roots, quiet determination, and a creative vision that carries Manolo Blahnik forward.

Next: How Danielle Pheloung Turned Her Corporate Girl Content Into a Brand

When in Rome, shop! While the Eternal City has all the major luxury-label shopping you can ever desire (including those with Roman roots like Valentino, Bulgari, and Fendi), it also happens to be one that rewards the shopper who looks beyond them. In fact, on my most recent trip to Italy, I found some of the very best shopping once I ventured away from Via Condotti and found the boutiques that were tucked into side streets and more local neighborhoods. Many of them were small, family-run ateliers, some several generations old, from the pope's very own tailor that sells silk socks in saturated colors to a four-generation pajama label with a cult celebrity following.

Here, I'm sharing the 12 spots I recommend most, from made-to-order tailoring and deadstock fabrics to Venetian velvet slippers in every color imaginable. Whether you're after a covetable archival piece or a unique gift to bring home or simply find yourself wanting a Sunday-morning stroll through a very cool outdoor market, consider this your ultimate guide to the best shopping in Rome.

Schostal Originals

Family-run for four generations, Schostal is the famous pajama and shirting label that has earned a full-fledged celebrity cult following. The pieces are timeless and made to last with a distinctly Roman sensibility, and the boutique draws on a long heritage of Italian craftsmanship, making the pieces one of the best things you can bring home from any Rome trip. Stop in early in the day (and early on in your travels), as sizing and colors can sell out quickly.

Gammarelli

The tailor to popes since 1798, Gammarelli is a Roman legend, but the real souvenir is a pair of its cashmere socks that come in a rainbow of saturated colors.

Castelli Profumeria

The iconic perfume store in the heart of Rome's Campo Marzio district is a must-visit even if only for the experience. Perfumes and beauty supplies abound, but head here for the vast assortment of hair accessories, from French hairpins and combs to acetate clips (yes, including the dachshund-shaped ones). Plus, the sales associates will spend time showing you how to style them.

Atelier Bomba

Atelier Bomba is a working atelier making knitwear and tailoring in small batches from natural fabrics. The boutique is a great stop for anyone hunting for something truly special and bespoke, and the pieces themselves feel fresh and full of personality.

SeryMoon Vintage

SeryMoon is a petite but well-curated vintage boutique with a specific POV. It's pretty much Y2K and early '00s heaven with droves of Emilio Pucci jersey dresses, Dolce & Gabbana satin corsets, and all the Chanel and Dior you can imagine.

Le Tre Sarte

A small atelier with a big point of view, Le Tre Sarte is where you'll find beautifully made, Italian-crafted pieces with an artisan touch. Think thoughtful tailoring, romantic silhouettes, and the kind of details you only notice up close. Come for a standout piece you'll be wearing for years.

Emporio Centrale

From kitchenware and tinned fish to playing cards, silver coupe glasses, and cool candles, this nicely edited shop is a home run for gifts that feel special, not touristy. Everything here has a story to tell.

Cavalli e Nastri

The Roman outpost of Milan's celebrated vintage destination houses some of the best archival pieces in the city, and on my most recent visit, I picked up a pair of bug-eyed Saint Laurent sunglasses from the 1970s in perfect condition.

CIR Corredi e Ricami a Mano

This embroidery shop houses an assortment of tablecloths, housewares, and children's clothes, all finished with its in-house embroidery that's endlessly charming. I wish I could have bought it all.

Borghetto Flaminio Market

If you're in town on a Sunday, head to this outdoor market near Piazza del Popolo for secondhand designer, costume jewelry, and loads of accessories. Be sure to bring cash.

L'Archivio di Monserrato

This eclectic two-floor boutique and atelier, founded by designer Soledad Twombly, feels like shopping in someone's very well-traveled home.

Footwear Campo Marzio

In the heart of the Campo Marzio shopping district, you'll find this no-frills shoe store that you'd be excused for glossing right over. Pop inside if you're after a pair of traditional Venetian velvet slippers, or friulane, which you'll find here in every color and silhouette imaginable.

In August 2025, Zoë Kravitz and Harry Styles were spotted arm in arm in Rome, marking their first public appearance together and immediately fueling dating rumors. Their outings soon expanded to New York City, Berlin, and Los Angeles, further fueling speculation about their relationship. Then in April 2026, less than a year later, outlets including People reported that the couple was officially engaged after Kravitz was seen wearing an elongated cushion-cut diamond ring set in a yellow-gold bezel. Since then, a few questions have been floating around: When will they tie the knot? Where will the wedding take place? What celebrities will be on the guest list? Most importantly, what will Kravitz wear?

True to Kravitz's pared-back yet elevated style and her loyalty to a select group of designers, my first guess would be custom Saint Laurent or The Row. But if she were to opt for an off-the-rack look from a ready-to-wear collection, I have a few other ideas for what her wedding wardrobe might include. I've put together a carefully curated edit of pieces that could fit the bill. Expect plenty of cream gowns (white feels a little too stark for Kravitz) as well as pantsuits and skirt suits. I have a feeling she'll be anything but a traditional bride. Without further ado, scroll on to discover the pieces.

Shop Zoë Kravitz–Coded Bridal Pieces

Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

This month, Who What Wear is celebrating its 20th anniversary. To commemorate two decades of spotlighting tastemakers and style leaders, we're dedicating October to guests who have shaped the fashion industry and cultural conversation since Who What Wear's inception. This week's guest is Mandy Moore!

Moore has been in the spotlight for over 20 years, from releasing her hit 1999 song "Candy" to starring in A Walk to Remember and This Is Us. For the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Moore sat down with Hillary Kerr to reflect on getting her start as a teen pop star, her outstanding acting career, and her most memorable fashion moments from the past 20 years. Plus, she shares everything you need to know about her highly anticipated new show, The Land.

To read excerpts from their conversation, scroll below.

Talk to me about the story of how you were discovered because it is wild.

So I was just like a dorky musical theater kid growing up in the suburbs of Orlando, Florida, with dreams of being on Broadway and also simultaneously falling in love with singing the national anthem at different sporting events, which is a crazy thing.

I remember seeing a young woman my age sing the national anthem at an Orlando Magic basketball game, and I was like, "You can do that?" It was such a huge light-bulb moment for me.

Cut to sending in a tape of me singing, getting chosen to sing, then becoming sort of the de facto national anthem girl throughout Orlando for all these different sporting events. [Then I was] kind of discovered from singing the national anthem, offered the opportunity to start recording music at a proper recording studio, which then led to a gentleman who worked for FedEx, who had a friendship with someone that was able to send it to someone else, to someone else, to someone else.

Eventually, [he] sent this unfinished demo of mine to one of the heads of A&R at Epic Records. I wasn't even 15. I was 14, and this guy flew from New York to Orlando, and I sang for him and had this quasi audition. And he heard something he liked, and I signed this record deal in like the winter of 1998, and started making my first record in '99, which then led to opening up for Nsync and the Backstreet Boys, and then that ball was rolling, and here we are in 2026.

Do you remember what was on that demo? Do you remember like what you were thinking about when you were creating it?

Some of the music was stuff that eventually did end up making it on my first album.

Stop it!

Yeah. So these two writers that heard me sing the national anthem at an ice hockey game were songwriters and producers, and they ended up working on the majority of my first album. So a lot of those songs that we were working on back then, not "Candy" or anything, but some of the other songs ended up being on my first record.

It's strange to think back to that time because I was 14. I had maybe kissed a boy in a game of truth or dare. Like I had never French kissed a boy. So I'm singing these songs that I truly have no point of reference for.

One of the things that I love about your career is a the longevity but also just the fact that you have done so many different things, and I feel like that diversity of experience is wonderful, and it speaks to your talent. So how did you start with the acting world?

I think because I grew up doing theater, it was always in the back of my mind. Like if any door opens for me, whether it's like Broadway or music or what, I want to try a little bit of everything.

I knew that if I could tiptoe into the acting world, it was something I wanted to try. And I took a bunch of meetings, and then, the very first thing that I feel like I properly auditioned for was The Princess Diaries. And I just remember going to Toluca Lake and meeting Garry Marshall at his theater, and I was like, "Oh, he's like someone's grandpa." He was just so friendly and funny and warm. And I was like, "I just want to hang out with him. He seems like he's going to be a lot of fun and like so goofy."

And it was. It was the best experience, and it kind of felt like being at summer camp because it was a movie with a ton of other young people my age, and it just felt fun.

Let's talk about that [Princess Diaries] premiere look. A suit, an acid-washed denim suit.

It was denim, and it was low-rise too. A pale denim suit with a black tank top. It was a strange choice. And white sneaker pumps with a big thick stacked heel. It was a choice.

It was the era for sure. Like I was definitely within my rights, fashion-wise. But would I choose that now? Absolutely not. Maybe a darker denim suit.

It wasn't my movie. I was just a part in the fabric of this movie. It was Annie's movie and, you know, Julie Andrews's. So I was happy to be there to support. Proud to be a part of it. So it felt to me like it was casual while still sort of taking myself seriously, maybe a little bit more than a musician-posing-as-an-actor kind of thing.

Talk to me about A Walk to Remember and what it was like going from a supporting role to a lead role.

It was a lot of weight. The dark hair really helped. I know it sounds so dumb, but the amount of questions I got during that time about like, "Did I feel like I was taking myself seriously now?" I mean, just like going from blonde to brunette, I'm like, "What?" That press tour was all about my hair color.

I was never as famous as Madonna or Britney Spears or other musicians that were transitioning to acting roles, where I felt like they were maybe at more of a disadvantage because it was harder for people to separate them from their public persona, right? Like you knew everything about Britney or Madonna or Christina Aguilera or whomever, and me, I was like the little kid sister that you didn't really know as much about.

I wasn't as famous, and so therefore I was able to maybe disappear into a role like A Walk to Remember a little bit more easily.

When it came to the fashion for the premiere, I remember my stylist getting this Chanel dress scent from France, and it was a big deal. It was like a full Chanel look, which I had never done before. And there were these little tiny kitten heels with pearls. The shoes, they were beautiful, and [the dress] was this sort of like peach chiffon, kind of low-waisted.

It felt like something I would have seen on Sandra Bullock or Gwyneth Paltrow, women that I had on pedestals. These are movie stars that I could only dream about calling myself an actor alongside of them.

And a very different color palette. Because we had seen you in lots of pinks and brights and purples, and this felt like a new era.

What is an outfit that you wore on repeat in 2006?

It was definitely a [Citizen's of Humanity] jean in 2006. Some sort of maybe sheer-ish tank top that you could see the bra underneath. Multiple necklaces, maybe a skinny scarf.

But then I always had some sort of third piece, so it was usually like a lightweight-ish cardigan, maybe a jersey or something, maybe a print, maybe a color.

I feel like also I did a lot of Phillip Lim in 2005, 2006.

What about now?

Denim and a button-down. I'm very much "Mom." Easy.

I think you're "cool Mom." You and I share a love for Jamie Haller because it feels like this is a woman who's a mom, who's in our general age range, who's making stuff for us.

[She's] making stuff for us that makes us feel put together and cool without it feeling like trying too-hard.

And the shoes are so comfortable.

Oh my! I mean, I'm wearing them right now. Literally, she is my uniform. Whatever she does and makes is my uniform.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we're tapping notable locals in the style space to share a tight list of their top recommendations of what to see, eat, and shop in their home city. They'll share off-the-radar recs that you won't find in your average guidebook, resulting in digestible mini guides revealing where the city's most fashionable residents are actually hanging out.

Los Angeles is a city that reveals itself in layers, and there’s a version of it reserved for those who know how to peel back the veneer. Most Angelenos have to earn access, but Nicole Richie has lived in that version for most of her life. There was a time, during the height of Hollywood’s reality TV era, when the Venn diagram of Richie’s public image and the Y2K zeitgeist was essentially a circle. The House of Harlow designer, media personality, and pop culture fixture has spent decades mapping the city’s coordinates. Here, the longtime local and perennial It girl shares the addresses that make up her personal guidebook.

The Spots

One spot you’re secretly gatekeeping: "I’ll never tell."

Where the best nights out happen: "At another friend’s house so we can be wild in private."

In the early aughts, I could always be found at… "Electric Karma. Decades Vintage. Joan’s on Third. Maxfield. Tower Records. Barneys. And clubs. Lots and lots of clubs."

The touristy thing that’s actually worth it: "Universal Studios. Halloween Horror Nights makes me proud to be from L.A. If you don’t live here, I would make the trip for it."

Well-preserved time capsule: "Mickey Fine, the pharmacy on Roxbury. I feel 10 years old, and everyone that works there calls me Nikki."

Vintage treasure trove: "I love walking into Recess because I never know what treasure I will come across."

When I’m in the mood to splurge: "Scout has an impeccable curation for archival high-end items."

The bookstore where I lose all sense of time: "Book Soup is the best bookstore in L.A."

The finest florals: "Eric Buterbaugh is the sassiest gay in L.A., with exquisite flower arrangements that will stop you in your tracks. "

Favorite under-the-radar neighborhood restaurant: "It’s not under the radar, but Anajak or Sushi by Scratch Restaurants."

Superior coffee: "Maru. I’m the biggest fan of their Sanmi Blend beans. It’s the only coffee we drink at home."

Los Angeles likes to sell itself as a city of reinvention, but Kate and Laura Mulleavy found something closer to the opposite: a house in Pasadena they’ve barely left since college and a whole creative world built inside it. The sisters started Rodarte in their family home, sewing a handful of dresses that would eventually turn into one of the most singular labels in American fashion today. They have since designed costumes for Black Swan and directed a film of their own and continue to dress just about everyone who matters in Hollywood—and they’ve done it all from the vantage point of the L.A. neighborhood they grew up in. Here, Kate and Laura map out the Los Angeles that shaped them.

The Spots

Iconic Italian deli: "Roma Market. Our favorite place to get an Italian sandwich, charmingly wrapped in pink butcher paper. The owner and icon, Rosario Mazzeo, is always there to greet you."

Chinatown institution: "Phoenix Bakery. Best strawberry whipped cream cake ever! We love the shaved almonds on the sides of the cake. It’s a historic bakery and truly legendary. This is one of the greats of L.A.! It was founded by the Chan family in 1938."

Endless visual inspiration: "Huntington Library and Gardens. We have been going here since childhood to see the beautiful art, manuscripts, and gardens. We even did our F/W 19 runway show here. Always love to to see 'Blue Boy' and 'Pinkie.'"

The art gallery that always surprises: "Nonaka-Hill Gallery. Our favorite gallery to see amazing art."

Vintage done very right: "Avalon Vintage. The best vintage shop and finds. Carmen is a muse to anyone who meets her."

The bookstore that raised us: "Vroman’s Bookstore. This is our favorite bookstore of all time. It’s been around 132 years."

Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, cofounder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.

If you're tapped into New York influencer culture, chances are you not only know the Pheloung twins—Danielle and Brigette—but you also love their content and style. Together, the sisters have a combined following of more than two million on TikTok and 1.5 million on Instagram, making a true impact on modern content creation. Yet before Danielle built an incredibly successful online career, she began as an analyst at Morgan Stanley, honing her skills in a demanding environment.

Later, she moved to Goldman Sachs, serving as a private wealth management associate. Days were filled with intense work, sharp analysis, and the relentless pace of corporate life in New York's financial district.

Meanwhile, her twin sister Brigette was paving a different path. Known online as Acquired Style, Brigette found immense success on TikTok. Her videos resonated widely, building a devoted following through fashion and personal style. Watching her sister thrive inspired Danielle. While still balancing her corporate role, she began posting her own videos. She shared glimpses of her style and daily life, offering viewers a window into the reality of working a demanding job while expressing her personal aesthetic.

The dual existence grew challenging as Danielle's online presence steadily grew, fueled by authenticity and the connection she forged with her audience. Eventually, the pull of content creation became too strong to ignore. She made the decisive choice to leave Goldman Sachs and transition into full-time content creation. It was a leap from the structured world of finance into the unpredictable realm of social media entrepreneurship.

Drawing on their combined online success, Danielle and Brigette launched Phe Phe in 2025. The lifestyle and clothing brand reflected their shared vision and personal styles. Danielle continued creating content while co-running the company. Phe Phe quickly expanded into several new categories. Most recently, the brand launched a workwear line, a fitting full-circle moment for a founder who once built her following filming office outfits between meetings.

Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to hear how Danielle turned her corporate career into the blueprint for a brand of her own. Keep scrolling to shop our favorite Phe Phe pieces.

Next: How Rickie De Sole Has Built a Fashion Career Across Magazines, Luxury, and Retail

There are London hotels you check in to, and there are those you wish you could move into. 45 Park Lane, the sleek sister hotel to another Who What Wear UK favourite, The Dorchester, falls firmly into the latter category. Overlooking Hyde Park in the heart of Mayfair, it has everything you want from a luxury London stay: impeccable service, seriously good interiors, an impressive art collection and one of the city’s best restaurants. It feels glamorous but never stuffy, and it's the kind of place you’ll find yourself dreaming up an excuse to return to.

The first thing you notice about 45 Park Lane is that it doesn’t feel like a traditional hotel. There’s a distinctly private members' club feel in all the right ways, with statement artwork, rich textures and just the right amount of Art Deco glamour. It’s polished and sophisticated, but not overly formal, and I love that it feels intimate, too; with just 45 rooms, there’s a sense of exclusivity that makes the whole experience feel a little more special.

The Rooms

If, like me, you think a hotel room is made infinitely better by a good view, you’ll be pleased to know that every single room at 45 Park Lane overlooks Hyde Park. Waking up to the sight of arguably the most iconic Royal Park in the city feels like a little luxury in itself, particularly when you remember you’re still right in the middle of London. The rooms are spacious, elegant and thoughtfully designed, with sleek technology, remote-controlled blinds and heated marble bathroom floors. In other words, it's everything you'd expect and want from a five-star stay. For a special occasion, the London Balcony Suite is well worth considering, whilst the Penthouse Suite takes things to another level with an entire floor to itself.

The Restaurant

Even if you’re not staying overnight, it's worth booking a table at CUT at 45 Park Lane. Wolfgang Puck’s celebrated steakhouse is a real highlight, serving beautifully cooked steaks in a setting that feels suitably glamorous without being intimidating. There’s no dress code, which, in my opinion, makes the experience all the better. You can turn up in whatever you feel your best in (although perhaps leave the gym kit for another day). It’s the kind of restaurant that works just as well for a special occasion as it does for a long, indulgent dinner when you simply want to make an evening of it.

When it comes to what to order, the steak is an obvious must, but don’t overlook the rest of the menu. The lobster is sensational, the sushi selection makes for a delicious starter, and if you’re really celebrating, the caviar blinis are second to none. If you happen to visit on a Sunday, you’ll also want to consider the roast, obviously.

The Little Extras

The spa is another reason to make a stay at 45 Park Lane more than just an overnight stop. There’s a 20m swimming pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge, alongside a well-equipped gym if you want to fit in a workout. The pool, with its decorative mosaic backdrop, is particularly lovely. Service is a big part of the experience, too, and each room has a personal butler on hand to help with everything from restaurant reservations to the smaller details of your stay.

What to Pack

Tiffany Reid is a Who What Wear editor in residence, fashion executive, freelance stylist, and brand consultant who most recently served as the senior vice president of fashion for Bustle Digital Group. She recently launched a YouTube series, Tried + True, in which she walks viewers through the latest trends.

Early this summer, we decided to retire our son's nursery and transition him to a big-boy room. For many reasons, the first major one was the urgency to foster his independence while sleeping (instead of co-sleeping with us), and the second was the need for him to play freely and safely in his room.

We had no idea time would go by this fast, and although all parents warned us, we could never know how time truly flies until we experienced it ourselves. As we watch him grow at an unbelievable rate, I've realized that a beautiful nursery doesn't necessarily work for a busy, curious little person who climbs, plays, owns (what feels like) a million things, and wants more independence. The number of toys he's acquired since birth was both admirable for him and embarrassing for us as parents. We needed a serious purge!

Creating a space that was stylish, functional, and safe was a priority for us, and my blind ambition made me think this process would be easy and fast. After a longer-than-expected, bumpy road, we finally made it out of the trenches months later, but we had to tap into our network of interior designers and experts to help along the way. Here's the journey from the beginning to our final destination.

Shortly after jumping into this project, I knew I needed to call in reinforcement for organization and a schedule. I phoned a friend and decided to tap interior designer Bridgette Grant to help us on this journey. Her suggestion was to start with the foundation, which, to her, meant the room's color and mood and understanding how furniture would work in the space.

"As children grow, their rooms often need to evolve beyond the nursery without feeling overly mature. Color can help bridge that transition," says Grant. She created this mood board for us and mocked up what the potential furniture would look like in the room. We emphasized how important it was that the furniture wasn't too overwhelming since it is a modest-sized room.

We also wanted him to have his independence to play safely and alone in the room. One thing that jump-started the urgent need for this makeover was a series of incidents catching him right before an accidental fall. Specifically, leaning on the recliner chair to give him height and leverage to climb up the bookshelf… Yup, you heard that right. I caught him hanging for dear life from the bookshelf. So she kept all this in mind and drafted this layout.

7 Tips On How to Upgrade a Nursery Into a Toddle Room

Grant's Designer Tip: Choose furnishings that create comfort and security, such as upholstered beds, canopy details, bed nooks, and soft, layered textiles. If space allows, a trundle bed adds flexibility for both children and parents.

Transitioning from a crib to a "big-boy bed" is a major milestone, and we weren't convinced we were ready. We knew for sure that we were done with co-sleeping and needed to set some sleeping boundaries ASAP. We knew the bed should support more than sleep. It becomes a place for reading, cuddling, sick days, sleepovers, and the occasional night when parents like us end up in the room. Not to mention, I tried sleeping on the crib mattress once and felt so sorry for my baby. Randi needed a mattress upgrade badly.

So we opted for a trundle bed from Oeuf and a mattress from Babyletto. "The trundle is a very simple idea: an extra bed when you need it and no footprint when you don't. It’s about making furniture work harder so it can adapt to the changing needs of a family without adding another piece of furniture," said Sophie Demenge, cofounder of Oeuf. It did not take much convincing for us to see why this was an absolute necessity for his room upgrade.

Grant's Designer Tip: Incorporate accessible bookshelves, child-height hooks, easy-to-reach storage baskets, and a night-light they can operate independently.

Randi has quickly shown us he was ready to be independent the week of his first birthday when he magically knew how to walk all on his own. As toddlers grow, their rooms should empower them to participate more fully in independent daily routines. We wanted to encourage this independence while keeping him safe. While it was impressive to watch him use a chair to grab his books, we still needed to course-correct, and because Randi has about 100 cars (no exaggeration), we needed somewhere to store them all with easy access for him. We chose a Piccalio Toy Organizer to do just that. The Toy Organizer offered us functional toy storage and adjustable cubbies, making it easy to store everything from blocks to balls, cars, and more.

I love the aesthetic of having books in plain sight, and this was something I wanted to keep. We decided to put in floating shelves high up to encourage him to ask us to reach them for him. We loaded the rest of the books into the Mustard Made Sage Locker with doors and a lock and key, giving him easy access while also setting boundaries when we didn't have eyes on him.

"At Maisonette, we're always looking for pieces that are not only beautiful but designed to actually keep up with kids. The Mustard Made storage is a great example. It's made durable and easy for kids to access, so they can start taking ownership of their space, while the lock gives parents a little extra control when they need it," said Sylvana Durrett, cofounder of Maisonette.

Grant's Designer Tip: Don't be afraid of brighter colors and playful patterns, even on large surfaces like walls or bedding.

Once we had the basics locked in, like the layout, it was time to jump into the fun stuff, like color. Danielle Hurhula, VP of home merchandising at Quince, held my hand as I chose colors. She suggested, "A soft, warm neutral is the most forgiving foundation you can give a kid's room. It makes the space feel cozy without dictating anything else in it." So we opted for the European Linen Sheets in Sand. "The neutral base lets you bring in almost any color or pattern as they grow. From there, layer in playful color through accents you can rotate seasonally," she said.

We wanted to stay away from blue, as that felt too cliché for a boy's room, so we ran with this terra-cotta, started with a quilt set in the colorway, then sprinkled it in other layers through the room, like in accent pillows and this velvet lamp from TOV Furniture I am obsessed with. I love both the lamp's soft texture and its soft, complementary tone.

Grant's Designer Tip: Consider closed storage or open shelves with matching baskets. Use pictures and labels to help growing toddlers identify where items belong and encourage independence.

The storage solutions that worked for diapers and swaddles rarely work for toys, books, puzzles, dress-up clothes, and everything else toddlers seem to accumulate overnight. This meant we needed maximum storage in a modest space. This wardrobe from Overstock was exactly what we needed. We took advantage of the height of the room and opted for something very tall. We took away the photos on the wall and decided storage was a better use of that space. We organized it so he could access the things at the bottom, and the higher-up items were only for us to reach. The knobs that came with the original unit were swapped out to match the soft, neutral aesthetics of the room.

Grant's Designer Tip: Create a dedicated sleeping area centered around the bed, a reading nook for quiet activities, and a separate play area for toys and creative exploration.

A reading nook was nonnegotiable for his room, as he loves to cuddle and read a book with his parents. It helps calm him when he's overstimulated and adds quiet time before winding down for bed. We are lucky that he can really sit and focus on a book; the goal when creating this space was to nurture that. We fell in love with this little elephant table from Pottery Barn, as it has a hidden compartment in the back to store his frequently read books. Randi really took to the area. We wanted to create distinct zones for sleeping, reading, and play to help the room work better throughout the day. Because of this, we decided to create a play area outside of his room, which brings us to our next tip.

Grant's Designer Tip: Focus on creating a room that feels calm, functional, adaptable, and welcoming rather than striving for perfection. The best toddler rooms aren't just beautiful—they anticipate toy explosions, changing interests, story time, sleepovers, sick days, and growing independence.

The truth is, Randi plays in the living room 60% of the time because Mom and Dad are there most of the time, so we decided to focus on revamping his new play area in the living room. We also felt strongly about setting up the room for the best independent sleep possible, which we thought would work better with less toy distraction. Remember when I said earlier we were embarrassed by the number of toys he's collected? Yeah, it was time to trade in his crazy, messy, oversize playpen and create a safe, aesthetically pleasing play space. The first decision was the carpet from Lulu and Georgia to keep him safe when sliding on the floor. We then decided to trade in his old swing set for a smaller one. Although he is growing quickly, we just didn't have space for such a big swing-and-slide set. This foldaway one from Piccalio was the perfect solution. Lastly, we wanted a table for him to play, do arts and crafts, and do learning activities and still have some storage. This nesting play table did the trick, with little cubbies built into the chairs.

Grant's Designer Tip: Consider area rugs, upholstered furniture, window treatments, cushions, and textiles.

This final tip is a gift to parents and also to neighbors if you live in close proximity to them! Many disruptions come from noise (especially for those who work from home), so layering soft materials throughout the room helps absorb sound while adding warmth and comfort. It is also a little safety trick for me. Randi likes to jump off of things, pretend like he can flip like a martial artist, and crash his cars into each other. A soft and aesthetically pleasing rug in both his room and his play area was a necessity for me to combat my anxiety every time he tumbles to the floor. This Pottery Barn play rug also acts as a built-in activity mat for him to play with his cars on, perfect for encouraging his imagination.

While this journey took two months longer than expected, the outcome was well worth the wait. Phew! Give yourself some grace as you figure out what works best for your little ones, and hopefully, these tips and brand ideas make the process a little easier. Be sure to check out their sites for even more cool kids' interiors. Take it from me: You only want to do this once. Here's hoping we're set for at least the next five to 10 years!

Welcome to Who What Wear Weddings, the destination for style-minded weddings. Expect insightful tips straight from the newlyweds, shoppable elements, and plenty of must-save imagery as we share the nuptials of our favorite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

Their love story began simply. Two high school kids fell in love and became each other's constant. They grew up together, supporting each other's dreams, celebrating each other's wins, and sharing all the little moments in between. As happens in any meaningful long-term relationship, Abbie Farrell, a sales manager at CD Network, came to know her boyfriend at the time, Max Howard, director of transactions and contract management at Masterworks, inside and out. She knew his daily patterns, his subtle expressions, his innermost beliefs, and even the surprise plans he thought he could keep hidden—or so she thought. Despite how attuned she was to his every move, a significant moment still caught her completely off guard: his proposal.

It happened on September 21, 2024, during one of their daily strolls around Gramercy Park in New York City. On multiple occasions before, Farrell had playfully hinted to Howard that they knew someone with a coveted key to the private park—subtly signaling that she hoped to step inside those gates. If he happened to drop to one knee there, she wouldn't be opposed. "Luckily, Max caught on," Farrell says. He managed to secure the key and surprise her with a proposal inside the Gramercy Park, everything she ever wanted. "It was a moment that was the perfect combination of being in the middle of New York City while still feeling completely private," Farrell says.

When it came time to plan their wedding, Farrell and Howard knew they wanted to celebrate outside the city. After considering multiple destinations, they chose Provence, France, specifically Château de Fontarèches, a 12th-century estate. "It felt like a natural choice," says Farrell, whose frequent work trips to Paris Fashion Week often doubled as getaways with Howard by her side. On one such trip following their engagement, the couple toured over 10 venues throughout the region. "The château was the very first venue we saw … and something about it stayed with us," she says. It's easy to see why. Character runs through every design detail, and most importantly, the château felt like an extension of their families. "The interiors reminded me of my mom, while the property reminded Max of his grandfather," Farrell explains.

On May 30, 2026, the couple gathered with 80 of their closest friends and family members to tie the knot. From the first to the last, each celebration over the weekend took place at a different location on the property, giving every event its own atmosphere and moment. This sense of individuality extended to Farrell's wedding wardrobe, which ranged from a custom One Of by Patricia Voto silver-gray dress inspired by Ralph Lauren's S/S 09 collection to a semi-custom Danielle Frankel high-neck lace gown with matching gloves. Continue reading to explore all the details of Farrell's stunning bridal looks and the couple's vision of creating a wedding that felt like an intimate garden party.

"We kicked off the weekend with our smallest event with 35 of our closest friends and family."

"We hosted cocktails in the courtyards with walls of jasmine blooming and incredible antique pots everywhere."

"For my first wedding-weekend look, I wore a vintage Lanvin Blanche 2013 strapless silk ivory bow-back dress that I found at Tab Vintage on a girls' trip to L.A. Though we had booked the appointment just for fun, when I saw the dress, I fell in love with it immediately. I knew it needed to be part of my wedding weekend. It ended up being perfect for the rehearsal dinner—simple, classic, and something I knew I would never get tired of. I paired it with an Attersee Brea Bag, Jimmy Choo Leo croc sandals, and my mom's jewelry."

"Max wore a light-blue blazer, which complemented his blue eyes. He paired it with Ralph Lauren linen pants and Gucci loafers."

WWW Weddings Tip: "[When it comes to] your looks, with your hair and makeup, your design selections, don't stray too far from who you are. It's easy to get caught up in the whole wedding of it all, but the best way to feel your best all weekend long is to stay true to yourself. If you are a girl who wears your hair only down, don't be afraid to do it the same way for every event as I did."

"[Cocktails were followed by] dinner in the ballroom at a long table with yellow accents—a nod to my mom's favorite color. We wanted the flowers to trail naturally along the table as though they had grown there."

"We used gold two-tone linen dinner napkins embroidered with each guest's name as their place card and added scallop shells to hold the butter, inspired by some of my favorite Parisian bistros. Wine bottles were left on the table to encourage a more family-style feeling."

"I knew I wanted to work with Patricia Voto of One Of at some point during the weekend, and the welcome party felt like the perfect opportunity. Since our guests were all wearing white and my own wardrobe is typically pretty neutral, I wanted something that would stand out without feeling disconnected from the overall weekend. I created a million mood boards of vintage Ralph Lauren dresses (specifically a halter dress from its S/S 09 collection, which I searched high and low for), and we used those as inspiration for a custom gown."

"[Voto and I] landed on a dusty silver-gray color. I wanted a halter neckline and an open back, and we added a shawl and racerback detail at the last minute, which ended up being some of my favorite details. I paired the gown with silver Prada metallic slingback pumps, a Bottega Veneta Intrecciato clutch, and my mom's vintage cuff. Max wore a custom plaid linen blazer with ivory linen pants that complemented the silver tones in my dress with Gucci loafers."

"Since it wasn't a seated dinner, we wanted the food to feel fun and easy, essentially grab-and-go or picnic style, while still feeling special. I became obsessed with incorporating food into the floral design, especially tomato plants. That quickly became the inspiration for the entire evening and gave us a red color palette for the florals and décor. The tables were layered with red-and-white striped linens, two-tone embroidered linen napkins, and incredible geranium-and-tomato arrangements. We even had tomato-shaped candlesticks with red candles. A jazz trio from Your Dream Band played throughout the night."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Find vendors that work with your personality. I basically hired every vendor off of vibe and do not regret it at all. Once I got off the calls [with] different photographers, videographers, florists, hairstylists, and makeup artists, I knew who I would want to mesh with during the weekend."

"At the last minute, we added red-and-white striped picnic blankets scattered across the hill so guests could sprawl out on the grass, relax, and enjoy the evening. It became one of my favorite details of the evening."

"My sister and four closest friends, who were all staying at the château, got ready with me in my bridal suite. It was exactly how I wanted it to feel: simple and relaxed."

"I knew I wanted our invitations to feel simple, elegant, and timeless. My personal style is pretty minimal, so I was never going to go too crazy with paper. I found Papier June and immediately fell in love with her work. We kept our entire suite white and understated with embossing throughout. The lace on my wedding dress was incredibly delicate with hand-painted details, so I always knew I wanted to find a way to incorporate it into our invitations. One of my favorite details was the handmade paper details card, which she created and embossed to mimic the lace of my Danielle Frankel wedding dress. We also incorporated shell details throughout the entire wedding, so the pearl wax seal on our envelopes felt like a subtle nod to a motif that would continue throughout the weekend."

"Trine Juel did my hair and makeup for the wedding day, as well as for the rehearsal and welcome party. When we first talked about my beauty look, I told her I wanted to feel natural and like myself, glowing but almost as if I wasn't wearing makeup. She did exactly that. She made me feel like myself but better and, more importantly, so at ease throughout the entire weekend.

"I've always worn my hair down, so I knew wedding weekend wasn't going to be the time to suddenly change that. We kept it simple for the first two events with a classic blowout, and for the wedding day, [we] added a little more volume and wave with larger curlers. I couldn't have been happier with how it turned out. I originally had visions of a whole look for getting ready, but by the end of wedding planning, I realized I really just wanted to feel comfortable and like myself (a common theme). I love Deiji Studios, and I saw their simple linen robe with a white tie a month before the wedding. It felt bridal without being overly bridal. It also fit the château perfectly and was something I knew I would actually wear again after the wedding."

"My 'bridal party' wore blue cotton striped pajamas that I found at one of my favorite stores in Paris, Merci, to get ready in."

"My closest friends coordinated their dresses to fit the gold and earth tones of the venue. My sister and maid of honor wore a look from Erdem's S/S 26 collection—one I had the opportunity to represent."

"My semi-custom Danielle Frankel dress was actually the third dress I tried on, and I instantly knew it was the one. The funny part was that it wasn't even one of the five dresses I had originally picked out to try. I had admired it on the website but hadn't included it in my appointment because I was concerned it was too casual. I saw it hanging in the room during the appointment and fell in love with the lace and cape detail.

"Most don't wear it as their actual wedding dress, but for another look, so we made a few changes. Once I put it on, the sample was massive, and the lining wasn't what I wanted. We found a smaller size without the lining, which I loved, making the lace feel super airy and light. I obviously couldn't do no lining, but the Danielle Frankel team was willing to work with my vision and had so much patience throughout the process. We completely reworked the interior, creating a nude, sheer lining that extended throughout the dress so there wasn't a stark line cutting off the delicate lace."

"The lace was my favorite part of the dress, and I wanted it to feel continuous and almost float against my skin. We then tailored the shift silhouette to fit my body completely, which was a bit of a challenge given the dress's original shape. We also adjusted the neckline to show a little more of my arms, added custom fingerless gloves, and created a custom train for a little extra drama. At the very end, we even added hand-painted flowers to the lace."

"Max knew from the start that he wanted to keep his wedding-day look as classic as possible, so he wore a Ralph Lauren tuxedo. In true Max fashion, he purchased it exactly two weeks before we left for France. After more than a year and a half of planning a destination wedding in France and multiple custom looks for myself, somehow his tuxedo was the one detail that nearly got away from me. Thankfully, he pulled it off perfectly, picking it up the day before our flight…"

WWW Weddings Tip: "Working in fashion, I spent a lot of time (I mean a lot of time—over a year and a half) working on my wedding wardrobe. The groom was something I struggled with, and let's just say I let go of it. Make sure your groom stays on top of it and buys his tuxedo well before your wedding day. Make a date out of it so he can also get excited about how he feels on the big day!"

"I kept it very simple with accessories, wearing my mom's diamond studs for earrings and simple white satin Manolo Blahniks I purchased during one of our Paris trips at Le Bon Marché."

The couple poses for photos.

"My mom passed away in 2017 and wasn't able to be there, so I wanted to find small, meaningful ways to have her with me throughout the day. She was a flight attendant, and I wore her wings pinned to my bouquet."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Don't feel forced into following a lot of the wedding to-dos. We slept in the same bed the night before, as we already live together, and woke up early before anyone else to have coffee together and a personal moment to ourselves before the day began."

"Because our wedding was small and intimate, we wanted the ceremony to be brief and simple but still feel personal."

"We kept the ceremony design intentionally understated. I wanted the florals to feel as though they had grown naturally from the gardens of the château and belonged there, rather than feeling overly arranged or decorative. We kept everything soft and organic, which also complemented the delicate lace of my dress."

"Our recessional was a string quartet's version of 'Blackbird,' one of my mom's favorite songs, which was another quiet nod to her. Those details were subtle, but they made her presence feel very much a part of the ceremony and the day."

"My half brother officiated, which was incredibly meaningful to both of us. He is someone we both have a close relationship with and deeply admire, so having him marry us made the ceremony feel even more special."

Farrell and Howard say "I do."

The couple leaves the ceremony to head to the reception.

"After cocktail hour on the terrace, our guests made their way down the hill to dinner. We had originally planned for one long table in another area of the property, but when we arrived, we realized the space wasn't quite what we had envisioned. We made a last-minute pivot to a U-shaped table on a new terrace overlooking the property and facing back toward the château, and we couldn't have been happier with how it turned out. It felt intimate and intentional, with everyone close together."

"For the tables specifically, I wanted the florals to feel almost weightless—as though vines and flowers had grown up and floated just above the table rather than sitting in traditional arrangements—with touches of lavender to complement lavender season in the region. I also wanted to incorporate elements that I love and associate with France, particularly antique lace and vintage silver. We collected pieces from markets throughout France and incorporated details inspired by some of our favorite restaurants in Paris, including shell dishes and silver accents, which made the tables feel personal without feeling overly designed."

"Some of our favorite moments of the evening were simply watching our guests mingle. Max's best man, my maid of honor, my father, and Max all gave speeches, which added a personal touch to our seated dinner."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Don't be afraid of plan B. We originally planned our wedding dinner for a different location, but it wasn't ready and didn't make much sense when we arrived. We changed our table to be in a different location and shape (from a long table to a U), and I couldn't imagine it any other way. The shape was amazing for our size and on the patio and [made for] some of my favorite photos. We also were able to watch our guests walk up and down the hill and see them all waiting at the bottom of the hill, and these are definitely some of my favorite moments."

"Before heading into the courtyard for dancing, we cut our cake. A large fruit tart felt perfectly on theme."

"Our first dance was to John Mayer's version of 'XO' because Max and I went to a John Mayer concert on one of our first dates more than 13 years ago."

"Then we had the classic father-daughter and mother-son dances."

"The rest of the night was filled with lots of dancing and martinis in a stunning stone courtyard nestled in the center of the château. Eventually, the party moved into the château's cave for a late-night DJ set and after-party (some of my favorite moments from the entire weekend)."

"I was originally set on not having a second look. I had already spent so much time on my other looks and my wedding dress, which had multiple interchangeable elements that allowed it to evolve throughout the night. However, two weeks before I left for France, Sara Nicole Vintage, who I had previously worked with for my bridal shower, was hosting a trunk show in New York, so I figured I would look one last time.

"I told Sara I wasn't planning to change and would only splurge if I found something I absolutely loved for the after-party. I told her about the wedding, and she handed me a dress before I even told her what I was looking for. It was a vintage Nina Ricci resort 2008 gown in two-tone silver-and-beige satin with the tiniest feathers at the neckline. It was essentially the exact dress I had been searching for. It felt like she had somehow read my mind. The feathers needed a little TLC, but otherwise, it was perfect. Needless to say, that became my second look."

Photographer: Sydney Marie Co.
Videographer: Natalie Sherie
Hair and Makeup Artist: Trine Juel
Venue: Château de Fontarèches
Florist: Flavia Studio
Stationery Designer: Papier June
Caterer: Helen Traiteur
Entertainment: Your Dream Band
Wedding Planner: Alexandra Howard
Furniture Rentals: Options and D&X Events

If you're interested in having your wedding featured on our site, please fill out our Who What Wear Weddings submission form here.

Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

This month, Who What Wear is celebrating its 20th anniversary. To commemorate two decades of spotlighting tastemakers and style leaders, we're dedicating October to guests who have shaped the fashion industry and cultural conversation since Who What Wear's inception. Up first is Chriselle Lim!

Lim, one of the first major fashion bloggers, got her start in the industry while studying fashion at FIDM in Los Angeles. "I had ambition to become a wardrobe stylist because that was really the only way to get into fashion at the time," Lim said. "I soon and quickly learned that I was horrible with math and realized that that was not for me." While in school, Lim ran her blog, The Chriselle Factor, on the side.

Since launching her career as one of the earliest creators and bloggers, Lim has ventured into new areas, including her fragrance business, Phlur. For the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Lim sat down with Hillary Kerr to share how she got her start in the fashion industry, what those early days of blogging were like, and more.

To read excerpts from their conversation, scroll below.

While I am, obviously, deeply and intimately familiar with your entire backstory, for our audience, for anyone who doesn't know, can you talk a little bit about how you first got interested in fashion and what your fashion background is?

I started off in college in my dorm room. I was studying fashion. I was going to FIDM in L.A. I had ambition to become a wardrobe stylist because that was really the only way to get into fashion at the time. I soon and quickly learned that I was horrible with math and realized that that was not for me. I figured that I would go more onto the visual side, which is styling.

I was studying, and I had the blog, The Chriselle Factor, on the side. There were just a handful of us, like Aimee Song, Sincerely Jules, Bryanboy, Sea of Shoes. It was just an exciting moment because we were on the internet purely for pleasure. We were there just to have a creative outlet and to show off how we're putting our looks together and sharing with each other what we're wearing.

What were some of those early moments when you felt like the industry understood what you were doing? … Clearly, there were brands that did get it because they were putting you in the front row.

It was early on, and it was at Ralph Lauren, because it was the huge house. Before, it was maybe smaller designers, brands that would invite us. I think that was one moment and then, obviously, when we had that press moment with WWD. That one was like, "Okay, people are really paying attention to us." Also, I think the biggest shift was … in Europe because Europe was a little slower, right? Actually, a lot slower. I think it took about five years, three to five years later, for them to start inviting bloggers.

I think one of the most important things for anyone to have a long and fruitful career is to diversify. You have diversified beautifully. I want to talk about Phlur. What made you interested in getting into the wonderful and wild world of fragrance?

I never thought I would be an owner of a fragrance brand or even have a fragrance business. I've always loved fragrance. I've always appreciated it. I wore it every day, but truth be told, it never crossed my mind. It was the right moment in time for me, as I was going through a life transition with my divorce.

I was familiar with the brand Phlur, as I actually had a few of their fragrances that I loved. I got introduced to Phlur when I was pregnant because I was super paranoid of putting fragrance on my skin, given that I don't know what's in the fragrance, right? But Phlur was one of the very first brands, at the time, that would list all their ingredients.

When the opportunity came that they were putting their business on sale, my business partner was like, "I want to do this with you. I think we could create something really cool with this brand, Phlur." For me, I already knew Phlur, respected the brand. I said, "I have nothing to lose. I'm starting over. What if this works out?" If anything, [it] could be a fun distraction for me while I was going through a very hard period of my life. I was able to pour so much of my own personal stories through each scent that we made and created.

What is an outfit that you wore on repeat in 2006?

Probably Hervé Léger bandage dresses.

What about now?

I'm always in my low-rise jeans, which is funny because baggy jeans were in back then and [are] still now. I'm usually in my Celine Boyfriend Jeans almost every single day.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, cofounder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.

In the fashion industry—especially in the publishing world—few careers arc quite like Rickie De Sole's. The editor of AirMail's style vertical, Dress Code, has lived many impressive career lives before this one.

De Sole started as a Fashion Assistant at Vanity Fair, moved into PR at Prada from 2007 to 2010, then came back to media at Vogue as a market editor, eventually climbing to Accessories Director. From there, she went to W Magazine as Fashion Director, returned to Vogue as Executive Fashion Director of Vogue.com, and then did something that surprised the entire industry: she left publishing entirely for retail, joining Nordstrom and ultimately becoming VP Fashion Director.

Along the way, she served on the boards of Rent the Runway and Vestiaire Collective—two companies that were reshaping how people thought about ownership and access in fashion before most editors were paying attention.

Now, her move to AirMail makes complete sense, as De Sole has sat at every seat at the table—editorial, PR, retail, board-level, and beyond—so when she writes about style, she draws on a perspective few editors can claim. Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to discover how De Sole's 360-degree approach to fashion has made her one of the industry's most valuable players.

Next: How Casey Lewis Became the Gen Z Whisperer.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

As much reporting as I've done on all the under-the-radar destinations to explore in Italy and around Europe, nothing can ever truly compare to Rome. Between personal and work-related travel, I've had the pleasure of spending a lot of time in the Eternal City this past month, using it both as a launching pad for a trip to Sicily's Aeolian Islands and a way to flank a long-weekend visit to the Tuscan coastal town of Porto Ercole.

As Rome is the gateway to the rest of Italy, chances are always high that you'll need to pass through the city. And when you do, consider this your master list to experience the most stylish, locally beloved, and authentic version of Rome. The city's constant stream of international visitors is undeniable, but the trick isn't to avoid the touristy spots altogether. Simply build your days around the true Roman experience rather than a ticking off a checklist. Take an espresso standing at the bar, opt for a long lunch that turns into an afternoon, and stop off for an evening spritz—you'll need the respite in between all the shopping and sightseeing you'll inevitably do.

Here, my fashion-editor guide to doing just that. It's everything I'd tell a friend heading there, including the luxury hotels to book, the classic Roman trattorias to dine at, the bespoke tailoring shops to discover, and what to pack to enjoy it all in, but especially the shoes I wear when I know I'll be logging over 20,000 steps that day.

When to Visit

"I love November through April, when you’re not fighting the heat," YOLO Journal founder and part-time Rome resident Yolanda Edwards informs. Indeed, the summer months are extremely hot and extremely packed, so unless you're passing through before heading elsewhere in Italy, I'd try to avoid them. "November begins the season of my favorite foods—artichokes, puntarelle, and porcini!" But if you really want to travel like a local, plan a trip in the winter to have all the major sites basically to yourself. It's so slept on! "December is so lovely with all the holiday décor, and since it isn’t seen as a city to visit during the Christmas season, it’s refreshingly filled with locals," she continues. "January and February are definitely cold months, but perfect if you’re after seeing all the museums and sights," Edwards confirms, "and spring is just magical here!"

What to Skip

When I asked Edwards about her best advice for scratching below the surface and getting to the "real" side of the city, her advice was quite simple. "Wake up early and you’ll have the city to yourself. By 9 a.m., the city starts to buzz with people heading to work and tour guides in full force. I’m also a big fan of doing the same at night. You don’t necessarily need to go into the hot spots to enjoy them—just seeing the Colosseum from outside at night is magical. While you’re here to see certain places, if you have to wait in lines and be uncomfortable to do so, don’t make every day filled with those requirements. Think how many places in your own hometown you haven’t visited and cut yourself a break. Make time for wandering and discovery!"

Where to Stay in Rome

Bvlgari Hotel Roma

It doesn't get any more luxurious than the Bvlgari Hotel Roma. The storied jewelry house is making a name for itself worldwide as the most sought-after hotel brand among fashion people and insiders, but since Bvlgari was originally founded in Rome in 1884, there's something extra special about this exact location. It occupies a 1930s rationalist palace that's been reimagined into a haven of modern Roman elegance and is situated overlooking the Mausoleum of Augustus. The Bvlgari in Rome boasts three Michelin Keys already but just recently landed itself on the World's 50 Best Hotels list for 2026. Like anything Bvlgari touches, the experience is thoroughly high-end. The spa, with its jaw-dropping mosaic tile pool, is nothing short of spectacular.

More than a hotel, though, it's the ideal meeting point, and Edwards says that the Bvlgari is one of her favorite places for cocktails on the roof or a cappuccino on the outdoor terrace on the ground floor.

Casa Monti

Casa Monti is the sister property of one of my favorite Paris hotels, La Fantaisie, so I already knew I was in for a treat before I'd even stepped foot through its lobby. The hotel is intimate at just 36 rooms but is filled to the brim with character and charm—its maximalist design is credited to renowned architect and designer Laura Gonzalez.

Come for its endlessly photogenic rooms, rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city, and decadent marble jacuzzi, but stay at the five-star property for its special location, too. Housed in a former police station in the neighborhood of Monti—the very first "neighborhood" established in ancient Rome—just steps away from the Colosseum, it's situated in a quieter, more local part of Rome that's still very accessible from everything else you might want to see and do. You'll know you've arrived when you approach the tangerine-hued vintage Fiat parked permanently outside.

As for the finer details, Santa Maria Novella products are stocked in the bathroom, and thoughtful touches like under-eye patches and CBD gummies left during turndown service are delivered with the hotel's signature cheeky brand voice. To note, the room service was delivered at lightning speed.

Hotel Locarno

"I adore the Locarno, which is caught in time in all the right ways," Edwards describes of the retro-glam hotel. The Michelin Key–awarded address is outfitted in a signature 1920s Art Deco style, and the rooms themselves are opulent and awe-inspiring, each one designed distinctly from the last. Tucked away on a quiet road just off the Piazza del Popolo but adjacent to all the best luxury shopping on Via Condotti, it's a favorite among tastemakers, fashion editors, and even Dua Lipa, who spent a portion of her honeymoon in one of its ornate suites.

Even if you're not a guest, grabbing an aperitivo or after-dinner drink in the interior terrace is simply a must—"I love to meet up with friends for a drink on their garden terrace," Edwards says, and they also happen to make one of my favorite cocktails in the whole world, the 1925, a creative take on the Negroni.

Palazzo Talìa

When a filmmaker as beloved as Luca Guadagnino is involved in bringing a hotel to life, you know it's going to be good. Redesigned through his own design studio, the result is Palazzo Talìa, a 26-room stay that feels as cinematic and stirring as any Guadagnino film. It's set in a restored 16th-century palazzo and sits just steps from the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps but, with its frescoed halls and leafy courtyard, feels in a world of its own.

More hotels to jot down:

• Orient Express La Minerva is the luxury train brand's first hotel located in a beautifully restored 17th-century palazzo near the Pantheon.
• Coming from the Ferragamo family, Portrait Roma is the city's gateway to fashion, and it fittingly sits above a Salvatore Ferragamo store, close to the Spanish Steps.
• Experimental Roma is set to bring its irreverent design aesthetic to the city with a new opening this fall.

Where to Dine in Rome

La Matriciana dal 1870

The year is in the name, and the recipes have the staying power to match. This family-run restaurant near the Teatro dell'Opera is a classic for a reason. Order the signature amatriciana, with its guanciale and tomato sauce, and settle into a checkered-tablecloth kind of evening that feels like the real Rome.

Nino Restaurant

Nino is a beloved and enduring spot that Edwards says is on weekly repeat for her. "I love the waiters in white jackets, the wood paneled interiors, and the classic menu."

Matricianella

Tucked down a cobblestoned lane near Piazza di Spagna, this cozy trattoria does Roman cooking exactly right. Start with the crispy fried artichokes and a plate of supplì, then move on to the namesake amatriciana. The vibe is lively and unfussy, and the outdoor tables are prime for people-watching on a warm evening.

Trattoria al Moro

A short walk from the Trevi Fountain, this old-school Roman institution has been feeding locals, artists, and the occasional film star for generations. Come for the classics, from cacio e pepe to a proper carbonara, served in a warm, wood-paneled room where the waiters have seen it all. Book ahead and order like a regular.

More dining to jot down:

• The endlessly elegant Dal Bolognese is home to The Millennial Decorator Julia Rabinowitsch's favorite pasta pomodoro.
• In the Testaccio neighborhood, Piatto Romano is a staple serving hearty, old-school Roman classics in a no-frills setting.
• "Rocco is an excellent neighborhood restaurant that attracts the creative locals," Edwards shares, "and the food is market driven with a menu that changes every day, and I love the interior."
• Hostaria da Pietro, run by two brothers, Pietro and Francesco, just steps from Piazza del Popolo, is a favorite of Schostals Originals co-founder Andrew Bloch Fiorelli.

Best Cafés and Bakeries in Rome

Bar Farnese

Do as the Romans do: Stand at the counter, sip a perfectly pulled espresso, and pair it with a maritozzo. Near Campo de' Fiori, this is a locally beloved stop to start your morning or reset in the afternoon before another lap of the historic center.

Giolitti

Since 1900, this gelateria near the Pantheon has been the place for a scoop or three. The move is to get a cup or cone topped with a generous swirl of fresh whipped cream (panna). The flavors are old-fashioned in the best way, and the line moves faster than you'd think.

Biscottificio Artigiano Innocenti

This Trastevere bakery is a charming step back in time. The family-run shop has been baking biscuits in its old ovens for decades, and the cookies are sold by weight, scooped into paper bags. Pick up an assortment of buttery, crumbly treats to snack on while you wander the neighborhood's ivy-draped streets.

More cafés to jot down:

• Pop into Boccione for its famed ricotta and sour cherry tart.
• Sant' Eustachio Caffè is an institution and sells its own Nespresso pods that make for a great souvenir to take home.
• Caffè Portoghesi is a real local spot that Edwards loves for coffee and aperitivo. "They also make great sandwiches—perfect for a quick lunch."
• Schostal Originals' Andrew Bloch Fiorelli loves Sciascia Caffè 1919. "Like us, it carries a lot of heritage and serves wonderful traditional Italian coffee."

Where to Shop in Rome

Schostal Originals

For elegant, timeless pieces with a distinctly Roman sensibility, head to Schostal Originals. The shop draws on a long heritage of Italian craftsmanship, and its delicate, well-made finishes are worth the detour. Stop in for something special that feels both classic and personal.

"Schostal was the worst-kept secret among Romans, the who's who of the city, and slowly the rest of Italy caught on," its co-owner Andrew Bloch Fiorelli shares. The A-list names found it the same way and include everyone and their mother from Zendaya to Wes Anderson. "The way everything is stacked on the shelves, seemingly just out of reach, is part of the charm and not a barrier," Bloch Fiorelli continues. "Some people are shy and afraid to ask, but I promise you, ask my mother or anyone on the staff kindly, and we will pull down whole shelves until we find exactly the right piece for you."

Le Tre Sarte

A small atelier with a big point of view, Le Tre Sarte is where you'll find beautifully made, Italian-crafted pieces with an artisan touch. Think thoughtful tailoring, feminine silhouettes, and the kind of details you only notice up close. Come for a standout piece you'll be wearing for years.

Gammarelli

Tailors to popes since 1798, Gammarelli is a Roman legend, but the real souvenir is picking up a pair of its cashmere socks that come in a rainbow of saturated colors.

Atelier Bomba

This design-forward boutique is a great stop for anyone hunting for something you won't see on every street back home. The pieces feel fresh and expressive, with a creative, independent spirit. Give yourself time to try things on, and don't be surprised if you leave with more than one thing.

More shopping to jot down:

• SeryMoon Vintage is a petite but well-curated boutique stocking Emilio Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Dior, and more.
• Emporio Centrale has an excellent curation of Italian goods from homewares to beauty to accessories.
• Cavalli e Nastri houses Rome's best curation of vintage designer.
• At Calzature Campo Marzio, traditional velvet Venetian slippers and Mary Jane flats come in every color of rainbow.
• CIR Corredi e Ricami a Mano is the most charming embroidery shop selling everything from tablecloths to baby clothes.

What to See and Do in Rome

Villa Medici

Perched on the Pincian Hill, this Renaissance villa is home to the French Academy in Rome. Tour the manicured gardens, catch a contemporary art exhibition, and take in sweeping views across the city's rooftops. It's a quiet, romantic escape just steps from the Spanish Steps.

Galleria Doria Pamphilj

Housed in a still-lived-in Roman palazzo just off Via del Corso, this private collection rivals the city's major museums with far fewer crowds. Look for the Caravaggio and Velázquez masterpieces, then wander the gilded halls, which feel like a glimpse into aristocratic Rome. The family-narrated audio guide is a charming touch.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Rome's most beloved green space is perfect for a slow afternoon or an early morning as there are some lovely little cafés within it. Edwards says she goes to the Casino del Lago café every morning, "and it, and most of the park, is filled with Romans walking their dogs." Rent a bike, row a boat on the small lake, or stroll to the Pincio Terrace for a classic sunset view over Piazza del Popolo. Pair it with a visit to the Galleria Borghese and its Bernini sculptures set within the park.

More sights to jot down:

• In my experience, the best way to see Rome's famed sites is by night when the crowds thin. Make a point to visit the Trevi Fountain after a late dinner and you can get up close to it (without paying the entrance fee).
• Similarly, walk, bike, or take a Vespa ride around the Colosseum after dark for a truly magical experience
• Edwards also shares that under-the-radar museum Palazzo Altemps is outstanding. "On every visit, I've had most of the rooms all to myself."
• Catch the sunset from one of Rome's many rooftops—my favorite is the terrace bar on the top floor of Casa Monti.

What to Pack

Packing for Rome is all about understanding sprezzatura, the Italian art of looking effortlessly put together. Romans dress with a polished ease, so think tailored but relaxed: a crisp white button-down, well-cut trousers or an easy midi skirt, and a lightweight trench or unstructured blazer for cooler mornings and evenings. I'd bring a neutral palette you can mix and match, then add a pop of color with a silk scarf or a great pair of sunglasses. Also pack a few pieces with covered shoulders and hemlines that hit the knee or below since you'll want them for stepping into churches and basilicas (a big scarf or shawl in your tote solves this in a pinch).

The most important item, though, is your footwear. Rome's historic center is paved with uneven cobblestones (sampietrini), and you'll easily log 20,000 steps a day, so save the stilettos and opt for sleek leather loafers, ballet flats, or a low block heel for dinner. A comfortable pair of flats is the best solution for days packed with sightseeing. I love my Venetian slippers from Flabelus.

In the Culture List column, we weigh in on culture through the lens of fashion—including what to know in events, travel, restaurants, films, art, music, and more.

Fall is kicking off with some of the most anticipated cultural moments of the year that have the style set eager to book flights and secure reservations at the buzziest new hotels. The Amanvari opening marks the first Aman property to land in Mexico. Then there's St. Clement, a new boutique hotel by Soho House founder Nick Jones, where the style set checked in for London Fashion Week in September and will return to for Frieze Art Fair in October. For those in search of more in the art world, buzzy exhibitions dot the seasonal calendar, including the Guggenheim’s Pop Art showcase and a Roy Lichtenstein retrospective at the Whitney Museum.

Meanwhile, the upcoming releases of Practical Magic 2 and Sense and Sensibility will influence what everyone is watching and talking about in the coming months, including the looks set to hit the red carpet for the press tours. We also predict that Miley Cyrus's freshly released album is primed to be the soundtrack of the season and can say with certainty that Harry Styles’s Madison Square Garden residency is *the* ticket to get. Read on for Who What Wear's top cultural highlights for fall 2026, including everything to see, do, and visit.

Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are joining forces again as the cursed Owens sisters nearly three decades after the original 1998 cult classic for the much-anticipated Practical Magic 2. This time, they're joined by Joey King and Maisie Williams as the next generation to deliver a legacy sequel filled with all the same romance and spells—and midnight margaritas.

Date: Out now

Florence Pugh takes on literature's most magnetic antiheroine, Cathy Ames, in Zoe Kazan's seven-episode Steinbeck adaptation coming to Netflix queues this fall. Christopher Abbott and Mike Faist play the Trask brothers caught in her orbit, in a saga that spans the Civil War to WWI—and comes with a family footnote since Kazan's grandfather Elia directed the 1955 film.

Date: October 1

Verity is the film that's set to light up group chats everywhere this fall. Starring Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson, the big-screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover's dark best-selling novel is a blood-and-secrets thriller that pins the two stars against one another, with Josh Hartnett caught in between.

Date: October 2

Calling all Jane Austen fans. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles step into Elinor and Marianne Dashwood's shoes for Georgia Oakley's adaptation of Sense and Sensibility. The Blue Jean director is known for finding contemporary edges in period pieces, so expect the tale of love and sisterhood to arrive with a healthy modern-day POV.

Date: October 16

Each summer and fall, the art world gathers in northern Italy for the Venice Biennale. It focuses on art and architecture in alternating years, and that means that the 2026 exhibition is all about art. Conceived by the late Cameroonian curator Koyo Kouoh, this year's theme is titled In Minor Keys and leans on intimate, reflective, and sensory experiences that eschew the Biennale's usual maximalism.

Dates: May 9 to November 22

Frieze London is one of the most important contemporary art fairs in the world. Founded in 2003, it showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from the world’s leading galleries and has become a major cultural moment on London’s calendar each October.

Dates: October 14 to 18

Whether you're in it for the WAG outfits or consider yourself a Formula One diehard, motorsport returns Stateside this October for the Austin, Texas–based race. This year, the calendar is bolstered by a new "Grand PrixView Thursday" preview day added to the schedule. Between the uphill blind Turn 1, the festival-scale concert lineup, and Texas's go-big hospitality scene, it's set to be a full takeover of the city.

Dates: October 22 to 25

Basketball fans (and fans of courtside style) have their calendars marked for the NBA season tip-off. It's the official start of the 2026–27 regular season, and the opening week will feature special marquee games and three key matchups. Coming off of their first championship in over 50 years, the New York Knicks will have all eyes on them as they play the 76ers at home.

Date: October 20

After a nearly three-year hiatus, Harry Styles is back with a residency-style world tour that hits just seven cities—Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney. The centerpiece is a 30-night run at Madison Square Garden, in support of his fourth album, Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally. Shania Twain, Robyn, and Jamie xx are among the guests joining him across stops.

Dates: Madison Square Garden residency now through October 31

The Guts victory lap is officially behind her: Olivia Rodrigo kicks off a 65-date arena run across North America and Europe, in support of You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love. Wolf Alice, The Last Dinner Party, and Devon Again are along for the ride, with multi-night stops at L.A.'s Intuit Dome and Brooklyn's Barclays Center.

Dates: Beginning September 25

She's dropped the last name and picked up a synth. Out now, Miley's 10th album trades Something Beautiful's balladry for club-ready, new wave–adjacent pop with features from Model/Actriz and Miike Snow's Andrew Wyatt. Two Hollywood Bowl shows are already set to follow in October, and the album is primed to become the soundtrack of the season.

Date: Out now

Saturday Night Live's beloved Bowen Yang is stepping into the titular role of Cole Escola's unhinged, gloriously deranged Oh, Mary! on Broadway. Yang takes over a part that's become a rite of passage for comedy's top talents. If you needed a reason to finally get tickets, this is it: a master class in camp.

Dates: September 15 to December 5

Marking what would've been the Pop Art icon's 100th birthday, the Whitney's retrospective gathers more than 130 works by Roy Lichtenstein including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and film. The exhibit spans his career, but rather than a straightforward survey, it's built around the artist's habit of endlessly reworking his own images.

Dates: October 11, 2026 to June 1, 2027

A decade after the quiz-night chaos of Big Little Lies, author Liane Moriarty returns to Monterey, this time centering Madeline's, Celeste's, and Jane's now-teenage kids, plus a new mystery kicked off by a severed finger mailed to the school. It's the author's first-ever sequel and reportedly just as wickedly funny and twisty as the original. Read it now so you'll be ahead if—when—HBO produces it for TV.

Date: Out now

The release of the long-awaited third book in the Big Fan series is here, and it cements author Alexandra Romanoff as the go-to in binge-able romantic fiction. With Vacation Self, expect the celebrity-romance genre's greatest hits: chaotic chemistry, quiet luxury scenery, and a will-they-won't-they that unravels fast. Indie publisher 831 Stories just knows exactly what we want to read now.

Date: Out now

Aman has officially landed in Mexico. Amanvari marks the hospitality brand's first property in the country, and the sprawling oasis sits at the edge of the Sea of Cortés on the secluded East Cape of Baja California Sur.

St. Clement is the buzziest new hotel in London, and the first solo hotel project by Soho House founder Nick Jones since 2022. It's an intimate but well-designed hideout with interiors by Alex Eagle and Sophie Hodges, a brasserie by Danny Bohan of the River Café, and a soon-to-open rooftop from Florence Knight. Jones calls it "Claridge's and Chiltern Firehouse had a baby," which tracks.

What was once a hideaway of Winston Churchill's and Grace Kelly's is now a gorgeously restored Four Seasons property. The Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor just reopened earlier this year with a wellness-forward refresh set against the resort's 100-acre private estate, working vineyard, and cliffside coves on the Formentor Peninsula. "While it's a little remote," Who What Wear Creative Director Michaela Bushkin admits, "you won't even want to leave the expansive property, so stay here if you're looking for a true resort experience."

The New York dining scene is flooded with newcomers right now, but the most noteworthy among them is Oriana. The Nolita blowout is helmed by the duo behind the West Village's Noortwyck and is, impressively, built around a sprawling wood-burning grill, complete with a 7000-bottle cellar and a vinyl listening lounge curated by Rufus Wainwright.

During Copenhagen Fashion Week this past August, showgoers had a new address to descend upon in the Denmark capital: Henrik's Hotel. The freshly opened hotel is defined by its charming British Nordic interior design and the fact that it's situated right in the heart of the city near Tivoli Gardens.

Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast. Think of it as your direct line to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and tastemakers who are shaping the fashion-and-beauty world. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

Benjamin Talley Smith knows a thing or two about perfecting a pair of jeans. For the past 20 years, the denim expert and designer has worked with everyone from Khaite to J.Crew. Now, Talley Smith just collaborated with Gigi Hadid's brand, Guest in Residence, on a new denim line.

For the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Talley Smith shares what it was like collaborating with Hadid, the denim trends he is predicting for fall, and more.

To read excerpts from the conversation, scroll below.

You work across so many different brands. I would imagine that, obviously, every brand has a different point of view and set of goals and what they want to achieve from a design perspective. For example, with J.Crew, am I correct in saying it's a newer collaboration?

Yeah, the jeans just launched.

What did they want from working with you?

I've known Olympia [Gayot] for I mean 100 years. I've been friends with her probably since 2006.

She actually approached me to do J.Crew before Madewell.

She allowed me to pick new fabrics, update the branding, do all of the things that I do.

Redo all the washes. [I] brought in a fit technician that I've used forever who's amazing, so we were able to revamp it.

Do you have a favorite pair or style or two from the collection?

The Zoe Barrel, which is a traditional barrel jean.