travel
FERRAGAMO-OWNED IL BORRO: FASHION AND LIFESTYLE “UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN”
- BY dressingscreen
- July 13, 2022
- 12:47 pm
An area that spans over one thousand hectares and enveloped by the suggestive Valdarno di Sopra valley, Il Borro is a vestige of Italy’s medieval past. A well-known village gem in the Relais & Châteaux Association galaxy, it is a tribute to Italian country days of yore, rooted in Italian traditions.
Known for its superb hospitality, it houses 58 suites, a villa nestled among an expanse of Merlot vineyards and boasts two fine dining establishments: Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and the Osteria del Borro. Purchased by Ferruccio Ferragamo in 1993, this majestic place remains a treasured oasis for the legendary fashion family.
Known for its superb hospitality, it houses 58 suites, a villa nestled among an expanse of Merlot vineyards and boasts two fine dining establishments: Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and the Osteria del Borro. Purchased by Ferruccio Ferragamo in 1993, this majestic place remains a treasured oasis for the legendary fashion family.
EXPLORING THE SUMPTUOUS SURROUNDINGS
“I oversee special projects on the estate. I follow the artisans that have their workshops in the medieval borgo, and I assist my sister in her boutique, but also in the shop dedicated to our own wines and products. I also coordinate excursions on the horse-riding trails… my one true passion,” Vittoria Ferragamo explained, as she leads the Dressing Screen on a journey of the bucolic world where honey, wine and oil (also sold on the Dressing Screen) is produced aplenty.
At the heart of IL BORRO are the wine vineyards, as well as its sprawling local farms. Its Il Borro Gardens boasts over three hectares of land and a greenhouse where seasonal, organic vegetables are harvested and are renowned for their freshness, quality and authentic flavor.
“We prepare boxes of mixed vegetables and eggs from our 190 hens — all of them delivered to areas in and around Florence, Siena and Arezzo.”
Il Borro encompasses 85 hectares of wine vineyards, where 12 wine labels (ten of which are 100 percent organic) are produced. It also includes 40 hectares of olive groves, where extra virgin, organic olive oil is produced, meeting the highest level of quality and flavor.
IL BORRO STYLE FOR THE DRESSING SCREEN
The establishment’s boutique (@LABOUTIQUE_ILBORRO) sits in the magical courtyard, an ideal spot for eyeing exquisite fashions.
Vivia Ferragamo, Vittoria’s sister is the driving-force behind its iconic, unmistakable allure. After pursuing her fashion degree in the UK, and after embarking on her own capsule collection, she now plays a role on Florentine-fashion maison Salvatore Ferragamo’s creative team.
Vivia has always been inspired by her many world travels, and the IL BORRO BOUTIQUE is no exception.
“The DISHES for example, are all designed by me and are handcrafted; they can be personalized with phrases or initials. I love Mexican creativity and the country itself, so much. I also love Budapest; I am particularly inspired by its floral designs, a special touch that renders each table unique, as I am also a lover of mise en place!”
Vivia Ferragamo, Vittoria’s sister is the driving-force behind its iconic, unmistakable allure. After pursuing her fashion degree in the UK, and after embarking on her own capsule collection, she now plays a role on Florentine-fashion maison Salvatore Ferragamo’s creative team.
“The DISHES for example, are all designed by me and are handcrafted; they can be personalized with phrases or initials. I love Mexican creativity and the country itself, so much. I also love Budapest; I am particularly inspired by its floral designs, a special touch that renders each table unique, as I am also a lover of mise en place!”
It is no coincidence that the boutique’s selection also features quirky cutlery splashed in shades of gold or bronze. ”I like to switch things up and this cutlery has the power to enrich, or also tone the table down, depending on the chosen accoutrements.
KICK-BACK, COUNTRY STYLE
Whether it’s for in-kitchen dining or a colorful picnic in the open air and on the lawn, Busatti, the historic linen brand founded in 1842, is always perfect for any occasion. Busatti was the first Arezzo-born company to join the local association that since 2000, has welcomed 28 historical Tuscan businesses and fabled brands under its umbrella.
From this consortium, Vivia selects aprons, tablecloths, tea towels, napkins… in short, everything that renders a table fresh, but also chic at the same time.
“They are the types of timeless linens that people covet. And they are a true, local souvenir.”
Among the most storied and internationally-recognized products are those from Santa Maria Novella, the ancient Florentine pharmacy and perfumery that was founded by monks in the 13th century and that today, still produces soaps, candles, perfumes and elixirs, all sold worldwide.
“And then the vests, designed by my father Ferruccio, are a very useful garment for country living. Outfitted with a multitude of pockets, the storage is really tantamount to that of a woman’s tote. Unisex and handmade, and crafted with weather-resistant fabric, they keep you warm in the winter. You can put everything in them. It is no coincidence that they are highly appreciated by both tourists and locals for their elegant spontaneity.”
