Where to Shop in Ischia: Curated Boutiques, Small Brands, & Local Finds
From Lacco Ameno to Sant'Angelo
I have been seeing plenty of people talking about wanting to skip the last few weeks of summer and head into fall, but I am enjoying the long and lazy August days. I do get it from a “getting dressed POV.” Summer dressing really isn’t my jam, and I will admit I, too, am looking forward to denim jeans, a t-shirt thrown under a sweater, and a pair of ballet flats. I just stumbled upon this piece by Sara of Frammezzo | In-Between where she talks about how August reminds her so much of January: “August is another January - a month for being lazy and taking stock, looking inward, remembering which way I want to be heading.” Which struck a chord with me.
Last week, I wrote about a two-week trip to Ischia, which wasn’t anything close to where to go, what to see, or everything to do with embracing the island’s very own rhythms and following what Mother Nature more or less dictates. In our case, it was a few days of choppy waters that led us to a beach cove that felt like a life we have lived a thousand times.
Anyway, while in Ischia, I did a lot of perusing in the island’s boutiques and shops, which I was pleasantly surprised to find such a well-curated selection and variety of shops. Also, while I was there, my newly purchased pair of strappy sandals from Ancient Greek Sandals, which I bought from a sweet Parisian woman who had only worn them once or twice via Vinted, absolutely crumbled to pieces. I, too, was bamboozled into thinking that this “Made in Greece” brand, which has become quite trendy on social and amongst influencers and retails for around $200, was of better quality, but the shoe was nothing more than straps and soles flimsily glued together. *Sigh*
Here are some of the island’s best curated stores, artisans, and local boutiques!
Lacco Ameno
I discovered Mario d’Ischia thanks to an instagram carousel posted by Laura Itzkowitz of the The New Roman Times, which came at a perfect time considering said shoes had just given out on me. If you are planning a trip to the island, check out her piece on Ischia here.
The excuse to get another pair of custom-fitted Capri sandals came on a silver platter, and I was all in. Mario d’Ischia has been around since 1978, and they are the real deal with their made-to-fit shoe with your specific foot measurements and butter-soft leather straps. I walked away with a new pair for 90 euros. If you visit during the peak summer season, be aware that it may take a day or two for them to be ready.
An amazingly curated and merchandized women’s multibrand boutique that I fell head over heels for. I love these types of stores where there is so much surprise and delight while discovering new brands and beautiful silhouettes. They had a sale going on, and I scored a shimmery gold knitted tank top that will pair great with a pair of white or light-washed jeans.
For baby and kids' clothes, I stumbled upon a store with a colorful array of seaside-themed clothing—everything from graphic tees and swimsuits to rain coats and knitted sweaters. I snagged a t-shirt for my little one that was hand-drawn by the owner's friend, merchandised in the photo above!
A cute little swim store with colorful bikinis, one pieces, in-store handmade knitted bags, and lots of patterned sarongs!
Forio
This women’s boutique, which has no website, social media presence, and very little outdoor signage, turned out to be a diamond in the rough during our stay in Forio. A mix of merchandise, I was particularly drawn to their artisanal block heel sandals and summer swim accessories.
For typical food products of the island, like honey with lemon and Ischian sweet salami, we loved this little specialty store to bring home a keepsake to remember all the island’s flavors.
Next store is an artisanal perfume shop, inspired by the flavors of the island, offering a range of skin and body products, including perfume, face creams, body scrubs, and oil-based body soaps.
Sant’Angelo
Il Pirata Ceramiche Artistiche
My favorite type of Italian souvenir to gift or add to my collection is ceramics. Visit the island's best spot, where handmade and painted items are being made in the studio, and take home a colorful vase, plate, or espresso cup. The shop is a vibrant oasis that is a feast for the eyes and soul.
Another multi-brand women’s store that gave me a mix of Free People, Mara Hoffman, and Doen in the best way possible. Crotchet flats, white knit kaftans, and boho-patterned matching sets.
Not to be confused with Il Pellicano Hotel, the high-end contemporary shop caught my attention after seeing multiple locals carrying around shopping bags on the bus. The store is historic to the island, and what I love is how they feature smaller Italian brands, one of which includes my favorite Tramontano Napoli.
So many gorgeous shops!! I love your Italian lifestyle eye 😍 and that cute octopus shirt 🥹
Can’t wait to go! Love buying Italian ceramics whenever I travel 🇮🇹