How would you describe your personal style?

I love a good casual-chic moment—something that makes me feel 100% comfortable but also somewhat elegant. Versatility is key for me; I adore pieces that I can style in multiple ways throughout the week without making significant changes. That's where good basics come into play, which is something I learned from my dad! For instance, one of my favorite things to do is take an office look out to dinner. Simply swapping out shoes, changing jewelry, or adding a different jacket or blazer can make all the difference. I might pair a sleek black blazer with overalls and Havaianas for the office, then switch to loafers or kitten heels and different accessories for an evening out. In other words, my personal style is about adaptability, allowing me to transition from day to night without too much fuss.

What is your favorite Goldie Tee?

My favorite tee is the Goldie Organic Love Tee. There's just something about its lightweight, breathable fabric that makes it stand out. It might sound silly to make such a big deal out of a simple t-shirt, but they really can make or break an outfit, in my opinion. Besides being extremely light, it has the perfect length—long enough to tuck in if needed, but not too short. Plus, the sleeves are slightly longer than any other white tee in my closet, which ultimately made me choose this one. I've been wearing it over a satin short skirt lately or with blue jeans and black loafers, and I’m loving it.

What is it about your Italian life that you still bring into your everyday lifestyle? 

I've been living in the United States for nearly nine years now, and it's interesting how the longer I'm here, the more Italian I seem to feel. When I left home at 19, I was eager for something new, a fresh start. But now, I find joy in the little things that bring me back to my home.

As cliché as it may sound, cooking plays a huge role in this. While I enjoy dining out, there's a unique satisfaction in preparing meals at home and sitting down at the dining table. Italians always make time to gather for every meal, no matter what's happening in the world, and that's something I try to include in my daily life as much as possible.

Another tradition I hold onto is air-drying my clothes, even though I do own a dryer. My family back home never had one (and neither do most families in Italy, for that matter), so I've embraced that habit here for the most part! Then there's my 2 PM espresso—I drink it almost religiously. I'm also a big fan of Made in Italy items, which probably doesn't come as a surprise. And let’s not forget driving a small, compact car, in true "Italian Job" fashion.

Follow Rachele @rachele_palanca