Fashion Capitals Part 3: Milan

Fashion. Food. Finance. Football. All are fundamental to the culture of Milan. Everyday the cities foundation of stone, studded streets, are converted into catwalks for some of the world's most fashionable people to strut down. Awnings casually lean against the stone buildings, soaking up the warm sun from above, and the aroma of delicious entrees being served below. Careful are the tourist as the walk around the ancient city, as delicate cathedrals are found around ever corner. Their dainty, architectural shell's are decorated with the most intricate details, but the true beauty is hidden away inside, like a precious picture closed behind the clasps of a fine silver locket, only to been seen by the most curious of folk. Couture store front windows elegantly line the long, stylish streets, sharing only a subtle glance into the exclusivity of couture fashion that poses on a silk, pearl studded pedestal. Here pasta is served fresh and gelato is handed to you in a cone shaped like a rose, each flavour as exquisite as the flower itself.

The people: Every morning the fragrance of freshly brewed coffee wafts in through the Milanese lady's open window, the strong scent is a welcomed awakening, that happily takes the place of an alarm clock. This lady, is most likely a hard-working business mogul, who spends her day productively. Her beautiful body moves with an air of purpose, and as she passes people in the street, they breath in her powerful presences. She has style and looks that turn those around her green with envy, and confidence is an accessory she never leaves the house without. The Milan lady is strong, important and considers fashion to be her sixth sense.

Eat: Breakfast in Milan is often had sipping a cappuccino, and nibbling on brioche, whilst casually leaning at the bar, Pastriccerie Princi offers delectable desserts and room to sit on the patio, so if standing doesn't sound appealing as a morning activity, you can enjoy the fresh air, as well as, the best people watching experience ever. For lunch steer clear of the touristy restaurants and take a seat at Pasta Madre. When you step through the door it's like a fresh breath of aesthetic air, here all the pasta is made from scratch, so every plate is like sliding into your favourite, cozy lounge wear; sit by the window and watch the envious pedestrians pass by. Milanese often eat a late dinner, so after your long day of perusing the Duomo, stop in at Panzerotti Luini. This is one of Milan's most historic bakeries, it's renowned panzerotti, a hybrid of a donut and pizza, is definitely worth waiting in line for. To finish off the night stop into Il Massimo Del Gelato, where carts of fresh fruit greet you as you enter, reminding you that this sweet treat is made from real ingredients.

Style: Milan style is always put together and smart. Never would you spot a pair of yoga pants strutting down the street. Layering is a common style technique used by these fashionable civilians. Heels are worn like an extension to the leg, and sunglasses shade the face, giving an air of mystic. Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana are considered staples in the wardrobes of the Milanese people. This fashion capital's dress code is always set to chic and it's carried off so well. Many people around the world look to Milan street style for inspiration, as an attempt to stay ahead of the trends.

Culture: The beauty spot on the face of Milan has to be Duomo. This extraordinary cathedral took 500 years to build and every detail is as breathtaking as the next. On a sunny day journey to the roof and enjoy the view from above, with the chance of getting a glimpse of the Alps in the distance. On the topic of historic, why not visit one of the world's oldest malls, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, topped with a glass roof this mall is must see for any shopping fanatic. While you're there, make sure to locate the bull in the centre of the mall, tiled into the floor and take a spin on his balls, as odd as that may sound it's a tradition that is believed to bring you luck. For any football fan, a trip to San Siro Stadium will be an amazing experience. This 85 000 seat stadium is home to two rival clubs AC Milan and FC Internazionale. For a relaxing break, settle into the green grass of Parco Sempione, and take in the great view of Castello Sforzescco. Take a wander along the canals in Navigli, the water is lined by picturesque boutiques and bars painting a serene setting of calmness, but it then turns into the host of  the nightlife parties, which always offer up a good time.

Shop: Milan is the perfect place to purchase your designer must-haves. Quadrilatero d'Oro, translates to Golden Quad, this is the destination for all of the top designers, Armani, Dolce& Gobbana, Fendi, Gucci, Prada, Roberto Calvalli, Valentio and Versace. Although not everyone can indulge in the Italian ABC's of chic, window shopping in this area is also a great alternative, plus its free. Milan's version of the high street is Corso Buenos Aires via Torino, here you'll find a reasonable price tag, and a dress code that doesn't require Versace. If you prefer the charm of markets, and the satisfaction that fills you up like a bowl of pasta, when you find a treasure, then the Fiera di Sengigallia is the market for you. It's opened every Sunday, and is located near the underground station Porta Genora, this is a mix-match of used bicycles and vintage gems in the form of clothes and books. Before visiting stores or markets, be sure to check their hours; most services are open in the morning to afternoon, then close and open again in the late afternoon. Milan is sure to fill your shopping need, whatever it may be.

Meet me at La Scala for the evening show...