Factory Fashion Outlets

For many, a trip to Italy would not be complete without stocking up on Italian designer goods that are a fraction of the price you would pay in other countries especially if you visit one of the famed factory outlets. Two such establishments are under 45 minutes away by car from Vercenni.

Space: The Prada Outlet in Montevarchi
Tucked away at the back of the Prada factory, this outlet sells such brands as Prada, Jill Sander, Helmet Lang and shoes by Church's, all at reduced prices. Expect to pay around 50 euros for a coin purse and a few thousand euros for a leather coat. You might also luck upon a pair of Miu Miu boots for 100 euros, a leather Prada bag for 200 - 500 euros, and a Helmut Lang suit for 600 euros. But the most reliably discounted items are the cashmere pullovers that generally retail at about 150 euros apiece approximately half the price of those sold in London or New York. As with most things in Italy, the system employed in buying goods is, for the uninitiated, thoroughly confusing. First you must get a numbered ticket from the metal machine located outside the front door, then after each purchase you must give your ticket number to the assistant who will get the item and leave it at the counter. When you go to pay, they will have gathered together all of the different items from all of the different departments so you can settle up for them before you leave.

SPACE (Prada Outlet)
Tel: +39 055 91 90
Località Levanells
52025 Montevarchi
9:30am - 6pm Monday to Sunday

The Mall
In between Florence and Montevarchi, just off the A1 Autostrada, this blandly named outlet sells Alexander McQueen, Armani, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Ermenegildo Zegna, Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo, to name but a few. With such a profusion of names, the chances are you'll find what you want but be prepared to search. This is a favourite haunt of the immaculately turned out locals, so don't be surprised to see the local grocers in Rada serving you potatoes in a 500 euro Zegna cardigan he has probably visited The Mall and got it at a bargain price.

THE MALL
Tel: (+39) 055 8657 775
Fax: (+39) 055 8657 801
e-mail: info@design-management.it
Via Europa 8, 50060 Leccio, Reggello - Firenze
10am - 7pm Monday-Sunday.