Wow, just wow. On a recent trip to Rome, a good girlfriend of mine recommended I stop by one of her…read moremost favorite boutiques in the city. As my hotel was just steps away in Monti where Le Gallinelle is located, I could not resist stopping by again, and again... Love at first sight. The space is impeccable, and so eye-catching. It's a boutique, art gallery, and cocktail bar rolled into one, and my friend and I could not stop snapping photos just being in awe of everything. Of course, with the permission of Wilma, the proprietor and designer extraordinaire. She was so incredibly sweet and welcoming. All of the garments were hand-crafted by her, and each had a story behind it. She uses vintage techniques, fabrics, etc. My friend and I did some damage in this shop (blouses, coats, you name it) while we sipped prosecco Wilma graciously offered...as we found it all so irresistible. Also, I love that it is a family affair: her daughter was there working both times we stopped by (she even has her own boutique called Flamingo), and their good friend Otay, who was ever so dapper and sharply-dressed. Such a memorable experience, one I won't soon forget. An absolute must.

It's boutiques like this that made me fall in love with the Monti Neighborhood, an area close to…read morethe colosseum where many of the buildings and rooms within have similar architecture with arches and stone walls. Le Gallinelle is a beautiful boutique in a gorgeous space, everything styled and displayed artistically. The designs are original, the garments so fashionable and obviously Italian. While sipping Prosecco, I enjoyed looking at eveeything marveling over the unique prints and lovely fabrics, many with a vintage feel. The owner, Wilma, as so engaging and shared her techniques, where she obtains fabrics, and the stories behind many of the designs. But wait, there's more! In addition to being a boutique, La Gallinelle is also an art gallery and a cocktail bar. Yes! I felt like I hit the jackpot! While in Rome I stopped by twice since my hotel was just in the outskirts of this trendy and hip area. I purchased a lovely scarf that has a scroll pattern that reminded me of the architecture in Rome and it was in shades of light blues, grays, beige and whites which matches most everything I wear. Will be back to visit next time I'm in Rome!