Every year, someone walks into the boutique in flag print and asks Maria one question.
A question about a dress
Head-to-toe stars and stripes risks looking like a decoration. Plain black looks like you forgot the day. There is a middle path.
What Italians do with their flag
Italy hangs the tricolore from every balcony, but its women rarely wear all three colors at once. Their patriotism shows up elsewhere.
The one-color rule
Pick just one flag color and let it lead. White cotton or linen for the heat, then a single accent — a jacket, a lip, a ribbon.
Comfort is not optional
A long day on the grass with fireworks after dark. Natural fibers and shoes you trust beat any outfit that needs constant adjusting.
One color, done right
See the dresses Maria brought back this season.