Italian Footwear Brand M. Gemi’s Shopping Guide to Florence, Italy
Author: Here Magazine
Lead image: Already one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations for its beauty and history, Florence also offers prime shopping opporunities.
The seven best places to shop in Florence, Italy.
Not that you needed another excuse to go to Florence, Italy, but the co-founder and chief merchant for luxury Italian shoe brand M. Gemi, Maria Gangemi, makes a strong case.
“My trips to Italy, and Florence in particular, serve as inspirational fodder and an understanding of the difference that true craftsmanship makes,” says Gangemi. “This is precisely why we created M. Gemi: to keep this art form alive and accessible with handmade Italian luxuries.”
Florence is the center of Italy’s leather industry and home to M. Gemi’s Italian office, so Gangemi is there often throughout the year shopping for materials and working on new styles.
“Florence is a beautiful city all around; it has a gorgeous landscape and impeccable shopping,” she says. “As home to so many of Italy’s best craftspeople, you know you’re getting the best quality in your purchases.”
Below, Maria Gangemi shares Florence’s best places to burn a hole in your pocket, from the oldest pharmacy in the world and one incredible vintage boutique to the local market you need to fuel up for even more shopping.
The 7 Best Places to Shop in Florence, Italy
Luisaviaroma
“The very best curated assortment of luxury and contemporary clothing and accessories in the city. I can never miss it when I’m shopping in Florence.”
Gerard Loft
“This is a legendary shop in Florence, it’s known for its artistic influence and wide range of men and women’s clothing from both well known and niche designers. Tomasso, the owner, is known for finding emerging designers and helping them gain international recognition.”
Officina Santa Maria Novella
“A superb fragrance store and must-visit in Florence, it is the oldest pharmacy in the world. Today, they sell the most amazing, luxurious skincare, beauty products, and perfumes.”
Flow Store
“A must-see for the interior decor alone, but great for finding timeless pieces with a boho flair.”
Marie Antoinette
“Florence’s best vintage store; you can always find some hidden treasure here.”
Guya
“The best store in Florence to pick up all your favorite trusted designers and latest looks straight from the runway.”
Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio
“A friendly neighborhood market, this is my favorite spot for picking up fresh food and produce—you’ll get the authentic Florence experience!”