I almost missed my train to Rome shopping at Taf Ricami. I'd passed by the store a few times during…read moremy two days in Florence and the display of children's clothes never failed to catch my eye. We were on our way back to our hotel to grab a cab to the train station when I decided I had to take a closer look.
My husband went ahead, a good decision, and I did my best to keep this side quest as short as possible. Unfortunately, the clothes were even more beautiful than I'd imagined. I could have spent another hour (and many more euros) if I'd had the time to spare.
I didn't know anything about Taf Ricami when I walked in, but I've since learned that it's a hand embroidery shop that's been in the same spot since 1954. It's not a brand, as I'd assumed, but a single store, selling linens and children's clothing, all of it handmade.
The kids' clothes were on the second level, and I got to work there with the help of a very nice woman who more or less brought me everything they had in my sons' sizes. I loved every item she showed me. Classic, handsome pants and shirts and sweaters of unmistakeable quality. I bought a matching set of rust-colored corduroy pants, blue oxford shirts, and green knit sweaters, picking those particular items because they were in stock in both sizes. I honestly would have been happy with any of the designs I saw. I also bought a gorgeous dress for my niece, green velvet with a girly ribbon and sweet embroidered details. A dress to make me ache for the daughter I'll never have.
The clothes were expensive, but downright reasonable for the level of craftsmanship. I got my tax back too, which amounted to a non-negligible discount. Taf Ricami is the kind of shop I always hope to find when I travel, a local place selling quality goods that I can't buy at home. The boys have already worn their new outfits twice, once for a family photo shoot and once to meet Santa. They're easily the nicest clothes in their closets, and I almost regret not buying up the store.
