italy
Page 16
Observation
Italy’s easy charm is its strength and a weakness, says Tyler Brûlé, but the world can learn from both.
A fitting experience
Combining German efficiency with Italian craft, retail design firm Schweitzer delivers store concepts from design to build. Monocle visits its mountain headquarters to discover how the magic is made.
Food
An Italian issue wouldn't be complete without a look at food happenings, from restaurants to street markets.
Flying colours
Italian family business Benetton is about more than fashion. From breathing new life into a roadside food chain to funding creative projects, the brand has diversified its global portfolio in unique ways.
The fixers
Plagued by scandal and financial woes, Italy has long been making headlines for the wrong reasons. We meet five people striving for change in the country.
Cycle chain
Emilio Aldo Renesto is a steelwork specialist whose frames are one of the first links in northern Italy’s small yet sturdy bicycle industry.
Stepping forward
Santoni’s shoemaking apprentices can take six years to learn the precise, careful trade. Master shoemaker Silvano Sollini reveals his pride in passing on the craft to a younger generation in Italy.
Special delivery
Mistral Air is not your typical airline. Founded by a former film star, it charters passenger flights by day and runs mail services by night – and is a big hit with pilgrims.
Europe
A rummage in the Italian president's wardrobe, what's next for the French first lady (whoever she is), and a dispatch on the economic and political state of the UK.
Acquired tastes
Inspired by a creative affinity for Italy, a band of Japanese craftsmen have set up shop there. Monocle speaks to a shoemaker, glass artist and tailor about embracing their foreign muse's traditions.
