FASHION, TRAVEL

WHAT TO WEAR DURING CARNIVAL IN VENICE

So, this is it – probably the biggest PR coup of the last century. Venice Carnival. A tradition which took place in-between 1162 to 1797 and was forgotten (even forbidden!) until it got reincarnated in 1979 by the Italian government. They aimed to boost tourism in the slow winter season and with 3 million visitors every year (to Venice, mainly for carnival reasons) it’s fair to say they succeeded.

So – we got two things covered: carnival is loved by a lot of people… it’s probably one of the biggest parties on the globe – and yet there are at least as many people who wouldn’t miss it if it vanished again. Since both perspectives are comprehensible there’s reason to look for a middle ground.

I’m somewhat torn myself… I admire the tradition of wearing someone else’s clothes, playing different roles, experiment with totally colorful and sometimes just ‘strange’ looks – all in a celebration-setting. There’s even a great history of freedom of speech behind this whole masquerade-aspect. This was probably the birthplace of a lot of critical political thinking in the Renaissance.

But there’s the other side of the medal as well… the very popular one in our time and age. Getting drunk with the least amount of style possible. Which is a reality of most carnival celebrations. I’m not a fan of those… actually, that’s one of the reasons I’ve got problems touching the subject altogether. I really don’t like to be associated with this sort of thing.

So… I deconstructed the original meaning, went to its famous birthplace – Venice, Italy – and played around in outfits which wouldn’t classify for your everyday casual clothes… but… well I really enjoyed the outfits.

Blouse: NAVY LONDON Pants: HALLHUBER Shoes: BUFFALO

One of my outfits consists of a black lace blouse with beautiful bell sleeves and some stylish track pants. So, if you’re looking for a way to combine comfort and style that would be the perfect approach. And kind of the most carnevalesque one – even without a mask.

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Blouse: NAVY LONDON Skirt: MAJE Shoes: STEVE MADDEN

I styled outfit number two with a white lace blouse this time and combined it with a pleated skirt in midi length. The black vertical bands on each side and the tie-dye effect create a sort of retro-style which makes it even more unique. I am just absolutely in love with these types of skirts.

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Blouse: TOPSHOP Pants: TOPSHOP Shoes: BUFFALO

The last outfit I’m wearing is perfect for being casual and stylish at the same time. The black blouse is off-shoulder and cut like a corset which makes it perfect for accentuating your figure. The tapered trousers in grey check finish off the modern look.

Which outfit do you like the most?

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