When I strolled my first summer Roman passegiatta (long walk after dinner), over three years ago, I couldn’t believe my eyes! I was completely taken by the circus act displayed before me.
There were all of these women, strutting their stuff. They dripped with gold jewelry. Their hair was perfectly styled and many had a pair of designer sunglasses expertly propped. Dramatic eyes and lips were drawn onto each face. Every manicure was fierce and flawless.
Each woman adorned herself in the tightest, flashiest clothing - splashed with rhinestones, gold studs and/or metallic lame. And I had to give these women credit; they could care less if their stomach was flat, their asses were round, or their breasts were large - they proudly displayed their womanly curves to all.
These performers teetered along in their highest of heels, walking tip-toe, to ensure their stiletto heels weren't caught between the ruthless jaws of the cobblestones. Bejeweled handbags were carefully positioned and the scent of intermingled perfumes filled the entire strada.
And there I was in my short-sleeve, stretch jersey knit dress (no ironing, washable in the sink and dried overnight!), flat sandals, wearing a trace of make-up and I thought, “Are they filming an Italian Candid Camera?”
Nope. They were doing what every Italian does every night when on their passegiatta: proving bella figura to anyone who cares to notice (and they had better notice!) The passegiatta isn’t a daily ritual for every Italian, but is a ritual for every Italian who goes out to dinner. I like to refer to the passegiatta as People Watching, On Steroids. It’s quite entertaining and definitely, something you’ll never experience in the U.S.
Bella figura is a way of life in Italy. Basically, it's how the Italians project their image. Italians like others to think they are well educated, enjoy a harmonious family life, dress better than every other culture, are properly informed in all matters of current events (national and international) and perfectly mannered when any social situation arises.
It’s an admirable goal, no?
If bella figura keeps the fantastic circus, that is Italy, playing - fresh pasta on our plates, rich wines bottled, olive oil pressed, gelato churned, glass blown, ceramics fired and gorgeous fashions in the store windows - then I’m all for it!
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