J.J. Martin is an American-born journalist and editor-at-large for Wallpaper* magazine. Last year, she launched LaDoubleJ.com, an online magazine and shop dedicated to vintage fashion and insider stories covering Milan’s creative women, its beautiful, hidden interiors, and its enviable Italian high life. Having moved to Milan for love fourteen years ago, she is now one of the city’s most visible cheerleaders, known for her high maximalist style and enthusiastic view of Italy.
The only reason I’m wearing pants is because Mr. Armani told me during an interview last year, “I want to see you in a man’s suit.” Let’s face it, we all want to be told how to dress by Mr. Armani. Normally my style is bonkers, but the only person I’m going to put on a pair of pants for is the king of classics. He’s the god of Milan.
My favorite Armani location is his giant, dark green yacht. I’ve been lucky enough to interview Mr. Armani many times, in several of his homes and on two of his boats… but the yacht is the chicest thing ever. Who else could choose that color for a 300 ft. boat?
Everyone’s on their best behavior when Mr. Armani’s around. It’s a natural effect. He’s so magnetic that when you’re in his presence, you’ll bend down and do anything he says. He’s the commanding general of fashion.
The best thing about Italian men is that they know how a pant should fit. There’s nothing better than a man in a well-tailored suit, and you see them everywhere in Italy.
I dress like a girly-girl because I’ve been crazy about the female wardrobe since I was four-years-old, even though I come from a really masculine family– that’s God’s work right there.
I don’t normally wear suits but now that I barely have time to get dressed, the idea of uniform dressing has become very appealing to me.
Every once in a while, minimal calls. I get sick of all my colors and prints, and then Armani is the way to go.
I survive my workload thanks to meditation and my fourteen energy healers spread out around the world. I also no longer drink alcohol.
My inspiration for LaDoubleJ.com is to combine my passion for vintage fashion with Milan’s hidden fabulosity, showing off the creative women here and the city’s incredible interiors. I’m bringing Milan to an international audience, and bringing an international perspective to Milan. Plus, everybody needs a little fun in their fashion life.
-Laura Rysman
