A Venetian Guide for Fashion Designers: From Famous Cocktail Lounges to Custom-Made Slippers

      Welcome to Locals Only. In this series, we're reaching out to well-known locals in the fashion scene to share a concise list of their top recommendations for sights, dining, and shopping in their home city. They will provide unique suggestions that aren’t found in standard guidebooks, resulting in compact mini guides that unveil the venues where the city's most stylish inhabitants typically gather. This summer, Venice has become the talk of the town. While some are renting the entire car-free city for weddings, others are at home, daydreaming of their next trip after seeing yet another gondola video on their feeds. It made perfect sense that I, a travel enthusiast who still reminisces about my first visit to this city, would spend weeks researching its offerings and conversing with notable locals to create the ideal itinerary for a week there.

      I was motivated to connect with fashion designer and style icon Margherita Missoni, who split her childhood between Venice and Varese and now resides much of her time in the city. With profound insight into its culture, neighborhoods, and hidden gems, she provides an insider’s view that surpasses the regular tourist attractions. From artisanal shops and historic bars to serene streets that inspire her creativity, Missoni shares her intimate perspective of Venice—complete with specific locations, experiences, and Venetian elements to incorporate into your visit.

      Where did you grow up, and how frequently do you visit Venice now? I’m from Varese, in the lake region north of Milan. We always had an apartment in Venice, where we would spend June commuting to the Lido each day. Currently, I visit Venice every week, as my boyfriend resides here.

      What are some of your favorite neighborhoods, and where do you spend most of your time? I enjoy hanging out in Dorsoduro since we live there and it's less touristy than other parts of the city. I also like Cannaregio for its vibrant atmosphere filled with young locals.

      What does a typical day off look like for you? On pleasant days, we often head to the Lido for a walk or bike ride, followed by a meal at Da Nane in Pellestrina. Alternatively, we might check out an art exhibition—despite its size, the city is rich in culture. Palazzo Grassi, Punta della Dogana, and Le Stanze del Vetro always have something to offer.

      If you had to create the ideal afternoon for someone visiting with limited time, which area would you suggest, and what would that afternoon involve? I would recommend walking from San Marco Square (through SangueBlu, Paropamiso, and Quorami) to Ponte di Rialto, and then continuing toward the Zattere to enjoy the sunset.

      As a naturally creative person, are there specific areas in the city that inspire you? I’ve always found Palazzo Reale to be enchanting. I yearn to "wear" it.

      Having grown up in a renowned fashion family, are there locations in the city that have special significance or reflect your family's heritage? Our apartment is on the bridge just behind the Bridge of Sighs, so that view, along with the one of San Marco's bell, holds significant meaning for me.

      What to Pack

      Vintage Missoni

      Sequin Bikini

      Vivienne Westwood

      Crazy Orb Sarong

      JW ANDERSON

      Beaded Canvas Tote

      Seychelles

      Georgette Ballet

      If possible, plan your visit to coincide with the art biennale; it’s an experience you won't regret. It happens every two years and has hosted notable guests ranging from Princess Diana to Naomi Campbell. During this time, the city transforms into a museum, with art exhibits floating through the canals and people queuing to enter the actual museums. And if you’re fortunate enough to receive an invitation to one of the after-parties, it’s an event you shouldn't miss. Locals Only Tip: “On the other hand, the architectural biennale is also worth attending.” — Missoni

      Since Venice is often viewed by Italians as a retirement destination, just imagine the treasure trove of vintage stores, which serve as hidden gems. One store that has gained significant recognition in the city is SangueBlu. Its curated items have appeared on celebrities like Billie Eilish and Emma Chamberlain, featuring pieces once handled by Gianni Versace or that walked the Gucci runway designed by Tom Ford. I'm considering booking a flight just to see it myself. Locals Only Tip: “If I were to create an ideal afternoon for someone in the city, I'd suggest starting at SangueBlu.” — Missoni

      Harry’s Bar, a historic venue known for being the birthplace of the Bellini, ranks as one of the most iconic bars globally. There was once a time when only figures like Ernest Hemingway could secure a table here. Today, Missoni highlights both the bar and its adjoining restaurant, Harry's Dolci, as prime locations to see and be seen