Taormina – the sparkling gem of Sicily’s east coast – has long captured the hearts of travellers with its cliffside charm, ancient amphitheatre, and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Most recently, it rose to pop-culture fame as the luxurious setting for The White Lotus Season 2. For our summer trip to this iconic destination, sisterMAG co-founder Toni (who usually vacations in the South east of Sicily) packed a very special look: a completely handmade set featuring the 08-6 Buttoned Bustier and the shortened version of our 15-2 Lampshade Skirt.
Let us take you behind the seams of this Mediterranean-inspired outfit
The Patterns We Used 🧵
15-2 Lampshade Skirt (Shortened Version)
Originally designed as a longer A-line skirt, we shortened it to hit above the knee. The pleated waistband creates a crisp silhouette with volume and swing – ideal for warm-weather walks and seaside lunches. See the pattern in our shop here.
08-6 Buttoned Bustier
A structured, cropped top with slim straps, princess seams, and a front button placket. This bustier offers a flattering fit that works beautifully with printed fabrics – and is surprisingly beginner-friendly! See the pattern in our shop here.
The Fabric Choice: Inspired by Sicilian Ceramics
To reflect the colours and patterns of Italy, we chose a blue-and-white cotton fabric reminiscent of Majolika or traditional Italian tiles. The fabric’s structure makes it perfect for both bodice shaping and pleated volume. (Pro tip: for the most lovely ceramic patterns you HAVE to visit Caltagirone when you are in Sicily)
✨ Suggested fabric types:
– Cotton sateen
– Poplin
– Light canvas or structured linen
Just search for "Majolika pattern" on Etsy, here are a few of our favourites:
Styling Notes for La Dolce Vita ☀️
For a look worthy of The White Lotus, we paired the set with:
– Strappy red heels
– Oversized cat-eye sunglasses
– Bold earrings and a tiny crossbody bag
Dress it up for dinner under the stars, or wear it barefoot with a straw hat for beach days.
Our Favourite Taormina Moments 🇮🇹
If you're planning your own Italian getaway, don’t miss:
- Watching the sunset from Teatro Greco, with Mount Etna in the background
- Taking the cable car down to Isola Bella for a swim
- Aperitivo at Grand Hotel Timeo with a view
- Wandering the Corso Umberto for ceramics and gelato
- Snapping a photo at the famous white arches of Piazza IX Aprile
It’s the perfect setting to show off a handmade look!
Want to sew the bustier?
Don't sweat the construction process. We've got a full video tutorial for the lined bustier version up on Youtube to guide you through every step: .
🧵 Estimated time:
– Bustier: 1–2 afternoons
– Skirt: 1 day with pleats and finishing
Sewing level: Intermediate beginners and up.
🧷 Supplies: buttons (4 for the bustier, 1 for the skirt), remainder of thin cotton fabric, invisible zip, interfacing, thread
