Quadrilatero della Moda

The Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Rectangle) high fashion district is in one of Milan's most beautiful and unassuming areas, all 18th and 19th century façades and lovely hidden gardens in the courtyards. The area bordered by Via della Spiga, Corso Venezia, Via Bigli and Via Manzoni provides a fascinating overview of top fashion, with superb window displays, many flagship stores, and people to match. Among top Italian labels like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Valentino, and Versace, you will also find international brands such as Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, and Dior. In addition to the fashion boutiques, the quadrilatero boasts Caffé Cova, one of Milan's finest cafés and pasticcerie (cakeshops), in Via Montenapoleone 8. Sant'Ambroeus is another superb pastry shop, actually just outside the quadrilatero, but just around the corner from Montenapoleone, in Corso Matteotti 7. Armani’s flagship store in Via Manzoni, features a Nobu Restaurant and the Armani Cafè.

E.B., 22.6.10