Does everybody remember watching That Seventies Show? Because I'd say the whole vibe is very Missoni circa now, no? (We'll just negate bell-bottoms for good measure.) If you're searching to capture the essence of my favorite Italian brand I'd recommend a kaleidoscope - an incredibly unique kaleidoscope (which is to say one that induces a vortex of cashmere knitwear, abstract florals and zig-zags). You'll remember I'm partial to this vibe - and if you've ever spied Margherita Maccapani Missoni's instagram you'll discover (with moderate-to-severe degrees of envy) that she in-fact lives this vibe. As a result I'd say the only prints we should all ever consider wearing are Missoni. They consistently get 'it'.
Take this shirt for instance. The neo-cubist print could easily lean on offensive but (and cleverly) the peachy terracotta tones are subdued and washed-out (yet not in the slightest meager looking - think perfectly-aged Mediterranean villa). Also the boxy and relaxed tailoring calls to be worn untucked. It's the ultimate go-to, adding a hint of color to the dreariest of winter days which, let's face it, are a-coming. Put simply it works.
It's mid-June which means things are potentially looking up. So what better time than the present to briefly chat Missoni? Also Northern California evenings tend to get nippy (in all respects) so a little knitwear goes a long way - provided that's the intention (I'm all for nippy). But let's focus. To say I love Missoni would be an understatement. I adore Missoni. Every piece is consistently spectacular. Kind-of how every Prada shoe just fits, you know? Besides that, the family's dynamic and legacy is admirable (we'll just politely ignore that Target collaboration, OK?). I've been surrounded Missoni pillows, foulards and cardigans my whole life, but the first piece I finally managed to buy myself was a beanie - when in Rome, quite literally. Since then I've significantly added to my collection. But truthfully I knew I was onto something when the editor-in-chief of Esquire complimented me (then a lowly intern) on my chunky black-and-white zig-zagging knit. That's right. Winning.
Also, having lived in Italy for some time meant several things. Great pasta, regular traffic-related altercations (they get passionate you guys!), and several trips to Missoni. I bought this cardigan and shirt without hesitation, and with much encouragement from my mother; "if you don't buy it I will - for me!" Sure it severely dented my creditcard, but whatever. #YOLO (and I mean that). I know 'fashion people' are about the all-black-everything thing, but sometimes we need to let loose. Get kaleidoscopic. Inject colour, prints and textures into our lives. A little mohair didn't hurt anyone. Neither did a great pattern.
Alexander Atkins, wearing a cashmere Missoni cardigan & shirt, photographed by Cara Beth Rogers in San Francisco.
*Discover the Missoni online, and shop the looks mentioned, below.
