I have spent 20 years in Milan—here are 3 styling tips I've picked up from the most fashionable women in Italy.

      Tamu McPherson serves as an editor in residence for Who What Wear. She has held various roles in the fashion industry, including editor, photographer, content creator, consultant, and stylist. Her collaborations include well-known brands like Prada, Bulgari, Burberry, Mango, and Sézane. In 2008, she established All the Pretty Birds and has resided in Milan since 2005. "Italian women always present themselves impeccably," Tamu McPherson tells Who What Wear. "I am thrilled that I've been able to incorporate elements of their style into my own." While she acknowledges Miuccia Prada, the esteemed figure in Italian fashion, as a key influence, McPherson also draws inspiration from the everyday women in her adopted city of Milan. For her debut story as a Who What Wear editor in residence, McPherson reveals the top styling tips she has acquired over two decades in Italy, emphasizing the advantages of designer outlets, unconventional fashion choices, and surprising color combinations.

      1. Invest in Outerwear That Complements Every Mood

      I recall my arrival in Milan. I came with an excess of an army parka, a wool coat, and a cropped brown leather bomber. Within my first week, I realized that my go-to outerwear trio from New York was not sufficient for the fashion capital of Italy. It was January, and my otherwise nice knee-length wool coat felt out of place over my plum-colored, midi-length Phillip Lim dress during a night at La Scala with my mother-in-law and her stylish friends. The issue was in the mismatched hemlines, which would have worked in New York but were somewhat unpleasant in Milan. Italian women curate their wardrobes with ideal outerwear for every occasion—considering silhouette, material, and color schemes. They also refresh their coats and jackets as trends shift, embodying the current mood. Fortunately, my mother-in-law assisted me, and we ventured to the Marni outlet outside Milan, followed by the Prada factory outlet outside Florence as Easter approached. At that time, the choices were fantastic, and my purchases equipped me with essential outerwear staples for my new life in Milan. Since then, I've gradually developed a reliable collection of coats and jackets suitable for every season and setting—from urban environments to mountains to seaside locales and everything in between.

      MANGO Wool-Blend Micro-Houndstooth Coat

      Rotate Zebra-Print Cotton-Blend Coat

      2. Embrace Winter Whites

      When I settled in Milan, the global style norms were beginning to dismiss the "no white after Labor Day" guideline. Upon my arrival, I was instantly struck by women sporting white jeans or trousers in the heart of January. I quickly became a fan and have never looked back. Winter white has solidified itself as a staple in my style. I consistently refresh my wardrobe with new white pieces—like Toteme trousers, a complete look from DarkPark, and most recently, a black-and-white coat by Korean designer Kimhekim.

      MANGO Bouclé Jacket With Pockets

      TOTEME Garderob Pleated Woven Tapered Pants

      3. Mix Navy and Black

      Miuccia Prada has crafted one of the most significant modern color palettes. Her Prada collections introduced me to the navy-and-black pairing. After I noticed her black-and-blue combinations, I began to see this palette in various sought-after collections and brands. When I incorporate these tones into my outfits, I feel extraordinarily chic—so much so that it can be overwhelming. For instance, I'm currently visiting the Leeum Museum in Gangnam, Seoul, in a black Eenk fringe shawl jacket, a navy COS turtleneck, black high-waisted flare jeans, and a navy Khaite Simona handbag.

      EENK Textured Jacket With Scarf Detail in Black

      COS Merino Wool Turtleneck Sweater