Made in Italy. Florence, Italy to be exact. Not something you see on most care tags you find inside of garments these days. If you stroll Washington Street from top to bottom however, you may have crossed paths with Viola Vita, a stylish boutique perched between a few other bustling retail spaces between 12th and 13th Streets.
What you’ll find beyond the whimsically decorated windows is owner, Mario’s current buy for the spring season. He closes the store twice a year in January and July- don’t worry he leaves a big sign on the window that says “Gone To Italy!” — le sigh, so there is no doubting if they’re open — in order to buy and add input on designs for the upcoming season.
The spring collection is pretty fabulous and is worth adding a piece or two to your own fashion arsenal. All pieces are one-of-a-kind, giving you that “I’m a star” feeling instantaneously.
It’s all about luxe, lush leather in creative, crisp silhouettes. From a carry-all that screams “like a boss” with its precise construction and solid structure {think Mansur Gavreil but everyone won’t have it}, to footwear that may resemble current styles found elsewhere {yet, these stand out for their exquisite details}.
Finishing with the crema del raccolto, those supple leather jackets — this is where you find a piece that makes a statement that will last beyond the trends.
A true piece that makes you say, “this old thing, I got it from an Italian boutique in Hoboken, years ago”. True story, that’s how these kind of responses are crafted. Annnd if you weren’t already swooning while picturing yourself on a rendezvous through the streets of Rome, there are pint-sized leathers for the bambinis!
Can. You. Handle. The cuteness!? The answer is no — you canNOT.
If you were to only get one thing for the season from here, it is a tough toss up between the leather jackets and the structured bags. Both can be worn countless ways and work their way into other seasons. So we’re just going to leave a little street style inspiration right here and let that be your guide.
Have you been to Viola Vita’s? What did you think?
