Hello friends,
This is an exciting one: I’m headed to the Amalfi Coast soon! Italy always thrills and inspires me—and of course, Bells & Becks shoes are all made in Italy—so I’ve been preparing for my trip by immersing myself in the culture I love and admire so much. Naturally, I’m also making some advance reservations at some fabled spots so I can get down to the important business of enjoying Southern Italy’s food and drink.
I can’t wait to tell you all about my travels when I’m back—until then, here’s how I’m getting ready.
Best,
Tamar
What I’m reading: Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend (I’m headed to Ischia, where it’s set!)
Elena Ferrante is known as one of Italy’s greatest novelists, and I’m in love with her first book, My Brilliant Friend, set in 1950s Naples and the island of Ischia (one of the places where I’m headed!). This is a story of Italy, but it’s also a beautiful, touching portrait of a complicated friendship between two women.
What I’m watching: Ripley, the new series adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley starring Andrew Scott
Everyone is talking about Ripley, the wonderfully done miniseries remake of Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley, a psychological thriller set on the Amalfi Coast. I always enjoyed the iconic 1999 film adaptation with Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, and Matt Damon—but I might like this one even more. Andrew Scott, who plays Tom Ripley, is terrifyingly sinister in his role.
What I’ll be eating…soon: Fresh seafood at Da Adolfo in Positano. You get to the restaurant by boat only!
I’m already planning exactly what and where I’ll be eating when I get to Italy, of course! Founded in 1966, Da Adolfo is the sort of restaurant you dream of when you think of Southern Italy: Five minutes from Positano by boat, perched right on its own tiny, rocky beach, little more than a shack but serving some of the freshest, most delicious fish and pasta you can imagine. Eat, drink, take a swim—and feel lucky.
What I’ll be drinking: A Hugo Spritz at Aldo’s, the bar at Le Sirenuse hotel
In my mind, I’m already sitting at the al fresco terrace bar at the legendary Le Sirenuse hotel, overlooking the town of Positano and the cobalt blue waters of the Mediterranean, and sipping a bracing Hugo Spritz. It’s la dolce vita in its truest possible incarnation.
What I’m wearing: The Lucia, for that perfect Capri sandal
I can’t stop reaching for the Lucia, an easy, elegant slip-on sandal that was inspired by the iconic geometries of classic Italian architecture (so you know it will fit right in on my trip!). These shoes are made from the softest Italian nappa leather, so I can walk all day in them—and they make every outfit sparkle, from jeans and t-shirts to chic summer dresses.
