When in Italy, you won't resist looking for the major designer fashion shops, and in Florence they're mostly found in or around VIA TORNABUONI. Once you take a look at all of the big names, a walk around the surrounding streets will take you past other attractive window displays. To look for everything under one roof, check out the city's branch of the national Coin department store. For the city's most unique products, take our advice and visit any of the following shops:


Raspini
You'll see several branches of this chic shop that stocks designer fashions and shoes for both men and women. It sells its own clothing line, but you'll also be drawn to the Armani, Prada, Romeo Gigli, or Dolce & Gabbana pieces at the biggest store in Via Roma and at the others around the city.

Patrizia Pepe
This local designer's shop is found right by the Duomo. You'll see original fashions appropriate for women of all ages, with classic looks given a sexy spin.

Emilio Pucci
Originally from Naples, Pucci set up his headquarters in Florence with the current boutique featuring a dazzling interior where his fabulous prints stand out in a number of styles.

Luisa Via Roma
Located in Via Roma, this is one of Florence's most cutting-edge boutiques known for its original window displays and fabulous selection of designer collections. Roberto Cavalli, D&G, and a number of other Italian and international designers are represented, and you'll also find shoes, accessories, and jewelry.

Angela Caputi
The high fashion costume jewelry of Angela Caputi usually comes in big sizes and different colors, and the mixture of various materials makes it even more distinctive. Take a look at the website for a preview of what you'll find at her shop.

Scuola del Cuoio
The cloisters of Santa Croce Church hold a leather school that sells high-quality leather goods such as bags, jackets, and wallets. It was created as a charity, and you can find everything at reasonable prices, as well as see craftsmen and apprentices working on their goods.

Aprosio
Hand-made jewelry and accessories is the specialty at this popular shop housed in a Renaissance palazzo. You'll see wonderfully crafted necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made up of thousands of tiny glass beads, often creating a classic look, other times a quite unique and imaginative piece.

Il Bisonte
Bisonte's first shop opened in Florence in 1970 and has been famous for creating high-quality leather bags ever since. Take a look at the suitcases, handbags, and accessories that are known to last forever and feel the softness that gave them the renown around the world.

Richard Ginori
Extra special china and tableware is the specialty of Richard Ginori found in Via Rondinelli, using color, unusual shapes, and designs to create both classic and modern pieces.