Margit Cesana (@simplymargit) is a mother of three, Style Director at Out There Creative Agency, and also one of the most stylish women we know.
Born in Estonia and living in Milan for almost 17 years, this multi-hyphenate, multi-tasking wonder woman is the perfect local to share her best tips for navigating Milan Design Week, or "Salone" as known to the Milanesi.
For first-timers, what are your tips for exploring Milan this busy week?
Salone del Mobile can definitely feel overwhelming, especially with its huge crowds and the number of events and exhibitions taking place across Milan. I usually create a shortlist the top shows, installations, or designers I want to see. Focusing on those first, and I don’t try to see everything. It’s better to have a deeper experience at a few key locations than to rush through many.
I highly recommend to download Salone and Fuorisalone apps for updated schedules, maps, and exhibitor lists.
I try to use mainly rental bikes (I use BikeMe or Lime) or public transport during Salone Week. Milan has a fantastic metro and tram system. It’s much easier to use public transport rather than taxis to avoid traffic jams, especially during peak hours.
What is on your must-visit list for the 2025 Salone?
These are some designers and brands with installations that I don’t want to miss:
- PRADA FRAMES / IN TRANSIT
- HERMES HOME
- PALAZZO LITTA
- BUCCELLATI / NATURALIA
- ALCOVA
- SOLFERINO 28 / CITTÀ PARADISO
- NILUFAR REPERTORIO
- GUCCI / BAMBOO ENCOUNTERS
- ES DEVLIN / LIBRARY OF LIGHT
- WAR FLAGS by Philippe Starck
What are your favorite spots for a bite or a drink?
Latteria San Marco for Lunch or Dinner, Via San Marco 24
It is a beloved family-owned restaurant nestled in the heart of Milan, and has been a culinary gem for generations with its rustic charm and warm ambiance. There’s no other restaurant that has so much love in their food! La Latteria captures the essence of Milan's rich culinary heritage, leaving visitors with a taste of Italy they won't forget.
My Favorite Dish: Try the spaghetti with lemon and zucchini with mustard sauce.
Bar Luce for Coffee, Light Lunch or Aperitivo at Fondazione Prada, Largo Isarco, 2
It’s not only about the drinks but the setting: the decor itself is worth the visit! Designed by Wes Anderson, this spot has a retro charm with a quirky, artistic atmosphere. It’s an iconic spot that is perfect for sipping a drink while soaking in Milan’s creative energy.
Favorite Cocktail: Go for their Negroni or Aperol Spritz. And don’t skip the Pastry Selection to accompany your drink. For quick lunch they have great selection of panini.
Bar Basso for Aperitivo or a late night drink during Salone, Via Plinio 39
Bar Basso is an authentic Milanese experience: the atmosphere is both casual and refined. It’s a favorite hangout for Milan’s creatives, designers, and professionals, contributing to its status as a hidden gem for those in the know.
Must try: their iconic Negroni Sbagliato, a twist on the traditional Negroni cocktail.
A special place open only this week: Bitossi Home represents Trattoria for Lunch or Dinner, Trattoria Sugo in Via dell'Unione 11
It is a contemporary reinterpretation of an Italian trattoria experience at Sugo Milano.
Curated by Arabeschi di Latte, the menu is a re-imagination of Tuscan cuisine and an ode to the warmth of shared meals.
Must-have dish: Order the spaghetti alla carrettiera Toscana and don’t forget to do the “scarpetta” (cleaning the plate with a piece of bread to enjoy the last remnants of a delicious meal)
Your style is always on-point and you have the best looks that go from morning to night: what are any tips or new trends you are leaning into this week?
Rather than following every new trend, comfort is my priority these days. Since I’ll be walking a lot, comfortable shoes are a must. I’ll also be carrying my ODP crossbody bag, which holds all my essentials, and I always bring along my ODP water bottle bag — hydration is key! - as well as my ODP Sunglasses since the weather should be glorious this week!
That said, I’ll add a sense of fun to my Salone outfits with bold colors and patterns. A pop of color or an interesting pattern can make my look feel more dynamic, especially for after-hours events. This is especially helpful when I don’t have time to run home between exhibitions and events to change.
Discover Margit's Salone Essentials:
