One of Milan’s fashion stars, the Bari-born stylist Viviana Volpicella actually started out as an architect before changing tacks and seeking out her first fashion job with uber stylist Anna dello Russo, who also hails from Bari. Since then, she has defined her own decidedly distinct style: a free-spirited, beachy vibe with boyish overtones and a hippie heart, influenced by growing up in her seaside town. She’s fashion director of LaDoubleJ.com and styled our group of ten women.
I love Giorgione (Big Giorgio). He is the master of fashion. The fact that’s he’s Italian makes it even better. The most emotional moment of fashion week is when he takes his bow after the show. It’s like my favorite film– I’ve seen it over and over, and I can never get enough.
My Armani look is very narco-trafficker, with a little bit of Havana glamour.
My true dream is to be a stylist. I started off in architecture, but now I’m actually doing the work of my dreams. Some people dream of being stars or dancers but I give thanks every morning that I’m a stylist.
My job is the work my life was intended for, the work I’m good at, which is the only reason I can bear to live in a city with no sea. But life without the sea doesn’t feel right, after growing up the way I did. Puglia is the California of Italy and I have the mindset of a Californian.
My mother and grandmother taught me the beauty of fashion; they were both incredibly elegant. Fashion made sense for me: I’ve always someone who speaks through imagery. I sketch and draw to get my meaning across.
My first styling job was with Anna della Russo, who’s also from Bari. She’s always been our biggest star there. She taught me how to be a stylist and I owe everything to her.
My attitude is a little boyish, a little gypsy. I’m always in pants. Pants are my thing. A boyish look goes with my physicality.
In my world, the bra does not exist. Of course, I don’t run. There are some adjustments you have to make in life if you don’t want to wear a bra. You can’t run. That’s why I do yoga.
-Laura Rysman
