Longing for Sicily
Summer has (finally) arrived – and with it, my longing for sun, sea, and all things Mediterranean. Lately, I find myself dreaming of Sicily: this magical island with its lemon groves, ancient cities, quaint fishing villages, and crumbling villas exudes a charm that’s simply irresistible.
Thankfully, there’s no shortage of visual inspiration: from the dreamy Taormina Collection by Dolce & Gabbana for Mytheresa* to the lush new Netflix series The Leopard (Il Gattopardo), my daydreams are filled with sun-drenched beauty and vintage flair. So why not bring a little Dolce Vita into everyday life – through fashion and home décor?
Longing for Sicily: A Touch of Taormina in Your Wardrobe
Sicilian fashion is all about bold colors, floral prints, and a touch of drama. I’m especially drawn to classic lemon prints – they just scream summer and have that perfect vintage vibe that makes every outfit feel like a little Italian getaway.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly alternatives to designer pieces, check out TopVintage*. From citrus-printed dresses (like this gem by Vintage Chic for TopVintage*) to breezy nautical skirts* and retro straw bags*, you’ll find everything you need for your Sicilian-inspired look – no luxury budget required.
*Affiliate links
Everyday Dolce Vita Style – My Essentials:
- A lemon-printed dress or a midi skirt with a bold print
- A woven straw or basket bag
- Cat-eye sunglasses
- Espadrilles or embellished sandals
- A swipe of red lipstick – and you’re ready to go!
*Affiliate links
Accessorize Like You’re in Southern Italy
Lemon-themed accessories are the cherry (or citrus?) on top of any summer look. For maximum impact, go full-on lemon with matching prints and earrings. Prefer something more subtle? A lemon brooch or scarf adds a summery twist to a simple outfit.
*Affiliate links
Bring the Sicilian Summer Home
Mediterranean Mood Indoors
Why not bring that sunny Italian lifestyle into your home? A few thoughtful touches can turn your space into a personal slice of Sicily:
- Lemon motifs: Whether as ceramic pieces, fresh fruit, or cushion prints – lemons instantly brighten up any space.
- Majolica tiles & patterns: These classic Southern Italian designs are perfect for dishes, coasters, or textiles.
- Mediterranean plants: Olive trees, lemon trees, and herbs like basil, rosemary, or lavender add charm and scent.
- Summer scents: Think citrus candles or orange blossom diffusers to evoke the markets of Palermo.
Add a few vintage details – a gilded mirror, a baroque candleholder, or floral curtains – and you’ve got your own nostalgic escape.
*Affiliate links
Sicilian Style Outdoors
Your balcony or garden can channel that Dolce Vita spirit, too! Think: Colorful sun umbrellas, terracotta pots, lavender in bloom, comfy loungers, a chilled glass of Limoncello…
*Affiliate links
„Il Gattopardo“ – A Netflix Escape to 19th-Century Sicily
Looking for visual inspiration and a bit of nostalgic drama? Then add Netflix’s The Leopard (Il Gattopardo) to your watchlist. Based on the famous novel by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, the series transports us to Sicily during the 19th-century Risorgimento – a time of social upheaval and political change in Italy.
At the heart of the story is aging nobleman Don Fabrizio and his family, whose aristocratic world is slowly fading as a new era emerges. Visually stunning, emotionally rich, and soaked in history, The Leopard is a must-see for Italophiles and vintage fashion lovers alike.
Because what would a historical drama be without breathtaking fashion?
Expect flowing ballgowns, delicate lace, embroidered gloves, ornate fans, and elegantly coiffed hair – all styled with timeless grace and just the right amount of drama. The fashion is classic rather than flashy, but no less captivating.
And yes – the Gattopardo look is absolutely wearable today, with a more modern interpretation: Think romantic blouses, hair ribbons, long skirts, or a charming parasol for sunny afternoons. 😉
Final Thoughts: Sicily, Served Daily
Whether you’re strolling through the city, enjoying a summer dinner on your balcony, or binge-watching period dramas on the couch – it only takes a few stylish touches to bring Italy home. Sicily doesn’t have to be far away. Sometimes, all you need is a lemon dress, a breeze, and an espresso in the sun.
As they say in Sicily:
“La vita è bella – especially in lemon yellow.”
So, tell me – are you already carrying Sicily in your heart… or maybe even in your closet?
