Clara in Germany!

Italian style is so iconic, that for a young American it seems completely out of reach and out of budget.  Yet, Italian style transcends brand names and luxury. In university areas especially, you can see sweats, baggy jackets, and dirty sneakers. But all those Italians still look so good, and so cool.  How, and why? The key to Italian fashion lies in one's attitude. I observed a pride in self-presentation, so deeply ingrained in the Italian imagination that it has become as easy as breathing. "Fare bella figura", or roughly translated to "make a good first impression", is a phrase that has been a mantra in Italian culture for centuries.  For example, all clothes fit well, jeans are often rolled, and if socks are mismatched, you can bet it was a decision rather than an afterthought. If you aren't wearing your jacket, you carry it with strength like the Bolognese man above. You don't need money to look cool. Every piece of wh...

When I think of Pompeii, I think of arid land and death. Going there, however, after the crazy-fun atmosphere of Naples, was humbling and stunning.  Walking from the bus station to the Pompeii ruins Modern statue in Pompeii by Igor Mitoraj A worthwhile excursion to Vesuvius by bus, which costs around under 30 euros For a more luxurious outing, head to Capri, the perfectly manicured, rich aunt of Naples.  Morning view. Just keep walking up. Capri Fashion: bright color and obvious displays of wealth Afternoon. Linens, pastels, and prep

Style in Naples is a cocktail of color and confidence. Bold hand gestures are the only necessary accessory. Less is not more; it's just sad.  Girls  Sweatpants and doc martins are a yes, just remember to have them tapered and visually harmonious with your pet. Street-side shrines, layered with memories and color Does your lipstick match your hair? Does your hair match your dog? Many Italian men wear blazers in blue and navy, as opposed to an obvious black. Pose is everything

Naples is dangerous. Naples is dirty. Naples is crazy. During my solo trip at the beginning of June, I experienced that only one of these things is really true, that is, that Naples is indeed, mad as a frikkin march hare.  Christmas tinsel lines the streets year-round, families of ten race the streets on mopeds, and people don’t text to meet up their friends. Group by the water Mopeds and red lipstick A typical night in Naples will most likely end with 20 new contacts in your phone, olive oil down your shirt, and the sound of fire-works ringing in your ears. Over a one-euro drink at the nutty and always full Cammarota Spritz, a table of Neapolitans explained to me that the party will always come to you.You just have to stay open.Directly after that statement, our neighbors then proceeded to pull duct-taped bongos out of their backpacks, cry joyously into the abyss, and inspire a street-wide conga line. Cammarota Spritz in the Latin Quarters. ...

Despite the art galleries, museums, and beautiful architecture that Paris has to offer, the truest artistic expressions can be seen on the street. From couples breaking up, to sheer skirts over flare jeans, Parisians really do know how to make a statement.  Converse and crying Wonder woman Yellow rain jacket and smiles Couple in Montemartre Cafe scene in the Jewish Quarter In the summer, Parisians drink outside

I started the day in Paris with a bite of baguette, and headed to the Montparnasse cemetery. Here, you'll find the graves of celebrated French icons such as Serge Gainsbourg, Jacques Demy, and Agnes Varda. My lovely hosts, American-turned- French cousin,William, and his girlfriend Christina, live around the corner, making it the perfect place to start my day.  On the way to the cemetery, daily markets will greet you. They are worth exploring if you are into artisanal lamps and 30 euro designer blazers.  If you like roses, head to Jardin du Luxembourg. Once satisfied with vegetation-based beauty, sit down for a coffee in the Latin quarter, and observe the subtly curated university students instead.  In terms of something sweet, Boulangerie Montparnasse will surely have goods, ranging from small and sweet, to jewel-toned and fantastical. Jardin du Luxembourg Bands prepping and people chatting in the Latin quarter Bright blue...