Italianness. Elegance, Espresso, and a Hint of Rebellion

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Coolness Italy. Elegance, Espresso, and a Hint of Rebellion
Author: Georges Desrues

Coolness Italy is a stylish coffee table book that captures the irresistible charm of Italian life. Author and cultural observer Georges Desrues takes the reader on a visual and narrative journey through that elusive concept of Italianità: the unique way of life where everyday actions transform into style, food becomes identity, and relaxation becomes a ritual.

From the myth surrounding Italian cuisine and the silent power of a perfect espresso to the symbolism of sunglasses, fashion, design, film, and architecture – this book showcases Italy in all its contradictions. Grand elegance and nonchalant lightness go hand in hand with tradition, humor, and a subtle form of rebellion. Pasta as the nation's binder, the passeggiata, aperitivo, beaches, dialects, and icons like Marinetti and Mastroianni together form a rich cultural portrait.

With evocative photography, keen observations, and personal stories, based on more than twenty years of living in Italy, Coolness Italy shows how effortless elegance becomes an art form. An inspiring coffee table book for lovers of Italian culture, lifestyle, fashion, and design.


What to expect:

  • The first coffee table book that explores the versatility and contradictions of Italian life
  • A mix of photography, reportage, and cultural history
  • Themes such as food, espresso, fashion, film, design, and daily rituals
  • A visual and substantive tribute to Italian elegance with a distinctive twist


About the author – Georges Desrues

Georges Desrues is a writer, cultural observer, and creative director with deep ties to Italy. He lived and worked in the country for over twenty years, developing a keen eye for the subtle codes, rituals, and aesthetics that characterize Italian life.

In Coolness Italy, Desrues combines his personal experiences with photography, storytelling, and cultural analysis. His work balances between irony and admiration, offering a fresh, intelligent perspective on a culture that is admired worldwide but rarely captured with such nuance.

Size: 23.5 x 30 cm
Number of pages: 272
Number of photos: c. 200 color and b/w photos
Binding: Hardcover
Language: Eng
EAN: 9783961717507
Publisher: teNeues
Author: Georges Desrues

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