When I think of summer, I immediately think about my home country, beautiful Italia. If you are planning a visit to Puglia, Sicily or Sardinia, you better brush up on your Italian while you find inspiration for your holiday wardrobe from my pick of Italian-influenced style.

New York-based Common Projects combines clean-lined design with Italian quality and construction. The white Achilles are my go-to sneakers. I often wear them with a suit or a pair of chinos. The high-top version is perfect for summer.

“Dov’è la spiaggia?”

I discovered this brand the last time I was in Florence and immediately thought the coin case was perfect for separating foreign currency on my travels. Made of naturally dyed leather, using a traditional Tuscan tanning technique, its shape is beautiful.

“Quanto costa?”

Brunello Cucinelli is usually associated with cashmere products, but its leather goods and accessories are equally amazing. I love this leather and grey mélange wool backpack. It is naturally water-resistant, so you can be stylish at the beach.

“Un gelato, per favore.”

I have a particular love for this iconic Italian brand. Fun fact: back in Milan, my dog Gino used to play with Audrey Versace, Ms Donatella Versace’s Jack Russell, at Giardini Palestro. So, every summer I have to incorporate a Versace piece in my luggage. This year, I opted for the neon oversized camp-collar printed shirt.

“Come si chiama?”

After visiting and filming at the historic Borsalino factory in Alessandria, I was able to see first hand the craft behind each hat it produces. And for an Italian summer holiday, you need a panama hat. It will protect you from the sun’s rays and make you feel like Mr Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley.

“Che caldo che fa!”