I found this place by complete fluke. I was on my way to catch the Number 13 Vaparetto (the only…read moreone that goes directly to Torcello from Venice), in the Cannaregio neighborhood, near Giorgioni's Cinema, when I automatically noticed the sweaters on display in their window. Even I could tell the quality was very high for these merino wool and cashmere sweaters. What totally caught me off guard was the price, 49 Euros each. Sweaters of this kind of quality usually go for at least 2 to 3 times that price. Because it was relatively early in the day, the place was closed but I made a mental note to come back later in the day which I did. I was not disappointed that I did. Stefano who runs the place and is a third generation Venetian to run this shop from his family basically told me what I suspected; that he's one of the last sellers in all of Venice who sells cashmere and wool goods at wholesale prices direct from the Made-In-Italy manufacturer. The sweaters at still folded in their individual cellophane covers with paper inside, the way stores receive sweaters before they put them out on the floor. They are plain, classic sweaters in models for both men and women like V-neck, turtleneck, crew neck and cardigans and come in an array of colors, but mostly in classics like camel, grey, black, navy, red, white, light yellow, brown, and several others. Stefano also speaks perfect French so we communicated effortlessly. I snapped up a couple of beauties which I know, if I look after them, they will last me for a few years. With the over-touristification of Venice, local businesses which have been here for generations have been driven out. God knows how much longer a place like this, a local's-only insider kind of place can stay in business, but it would be a sad day in Venice when original merchants like these disappear for good.

A true venetian secret. Great quality sweaters and personal service. Stefano remembered us from our…read moreprevious visit three years previously. Not online as he wants to retain a personal service - how impressive is that?

In the heart of Venice's shopping district, along with the plethora of designer stores, I…read morediscovered this mid-market lingerie shop. Yamamay is a well-known chain in Italy. There is plenty to please, in an attractive range of hues, with chic winter shades like bottle green and dark grey standing out elegantly, among the more predictable tones. Fabrics range from synthetic to cotton and silk. I found their underwear more stylish than their nightwear selection. There is a fair range of sizes available, with a very good offering for the more petite. Pretty camisoles and briefs have interesting detailing - without going over-the-top or being impractical. It's one of those places where they try to entice the shopper into multi-purchasing; items become cheaper when you buy two or three, at a time. Staff will gift wrap your choice, if required.

Really great products but fraudulent business practices. The owner did not mention the detaxe…read more"because I didn't ask" (I'd been giving her the benefit of the doubt because she seemed nice). She became openly hostile when I tried to return un-opened merchandise and started making outrageous claims like "no store in Italy takes returns." I had to file a claim with my credit card company, and apparently she'd just been bluffing all along because I got my money back. In short: do not be bullied! I still have a bad taste in my mouth.

It was a nice and clean establishment. Prices were amazing and I was able to leave with two cute…read moreoutfits

I was excited to stumble upon this H&M in one of the many open piazzas in Venice, following a…read morestroll through a narrow corridor or street. The store was bustling on the weekend but the lines weren't too long (perhaps 4-5 customers waiting). The clothing appeared similar in quality to that of H&M stores in the US, as were the price points -- which I assume was a huge attraction since the exchange rate is so high. I didn't get the chance to peruse for too long, but noted that the items were the same as in the States (see the website). Therefore, I didn't feel the need to buy anything. This location isn't too large, as the aisles were pretty narrow. Good place to pick up some pieces though particularly if you forgot to pack something.