Talking Italian

From an art and design perspective, the Italians have got it down, they are pretty good in the cucina as well.

I am no expert, just an little bit of an Italophile, these pasta monkeys walk the walk. talka da talk, cook the cannelloni, wear the threads, drive the automobili and make just about everything they have a go at, that much more seductive and adorable, in short they make you smile the loud, exuberant nutters.

‘Fare Bella figura’ is a phrase often used by Italians, it doesn’t translate literally but essentially it means to make the best impression, to put your best foot forward or to cut a beautiful figure perhaps. It’s part of the Italian philosophy of putting careful thought into the face you present to the world by taking pride in one’s appearance whether that be shiny, clean hair and polished shoes or by the perfect cut of a suit. Beauty is regarded as very important in Italy, this is obvious, just look at the art, automobiles and architecture (and thats just the a's).

Some of my favourites Italian brands in no particular order are: Pagani, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bertone, Pininfarina, Zagato, Italdesign Giugiaro and Carrozzeria Ghia, Bizzarini, Maserati, Fiat, Aprila, Vespa, Lambretta, Piagio, Gaggia, Fila, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Alessi, Gucci, Armani, Fendi, Prada, Moschino, as well as road bicycle manufacturers too numerous to mention, etcetera, etcetera. I would not be seen dead wearing (or driving) some of the above, but there are a beautiful few here go a long way to make life: Una Dolce Vita.

Photo: Un bicylclist alla moda a Milano, bag: probably containing pasta y pomodori and nice socks.