The Neapolitan Quartet

Sign me up for a vintage-inspired Italian mood board

Apologies for my slight absence, but I can explain. I was immersed in the world that is Elena and Lila’s in the Neapolitan Quartet. Typically I don’t like to choose a book (or in this case, books) that have already been translated into a TV series or film, but I couldn’t help it with this one. With the bulk of the series being based in 1950-1970’s Italy, it led me to have such a clear picture of the fashion, colors, food, and overall scenery. It read very cinematic to me, I almost imagined it in the lens of a Super8. And I promise, I haven’t watched the HBO series yet, but definitely will as I’m pretty obsessed with the books and never want this world created by Ferrante to end.

The story takes place in 1950’s Naples following two best friends who grow up together in a poor neighborhood ridden with violence and unrest. There are several characters that get introduced throughout the books, but Elena and Lila are at the center of it all. The entire series follows them from childhood all the way into old age. Their dynamic is one of the most complex relationships I’ve ever encountered. Written from Elena’s perspective, it would be amazing to get the series rewritten in Lila’s perspective to compare the two. I know that’ll probably never happen, but, a girl can dream. I loved learning about Naples, the seaside towns, and Elena’s tempestuous view of their neighborhood. This was a fun one to bring to life and if you’ve watched the TV series in its entirety, please, let me know how I did.

Drinks

Not to say that this section was easy, but… it was definitely spelled out for me. A lot of food references were mentioned, specific to Neapolitan cuisine, and of course, I had to commit. Everything sounded so delicious and like something you could easily make at home if you were wanting to throw an Italian-themed dinner party outside of the normal red sauce aesthetic.

Italian soda with an almond syrup sounds so delightful and like marzipan in a drink. They sipped on this when in Ischia and I imagined them enjoying a sweet cold beverage along the seaside with their feet dangling from the dock into the glimmering water. Very much into this simple recipe that I want to make for my next party and top them off with cute striped straws and maybe even edible flowers.

Image via Tuba Club

AKA potato pasta. Elena’s mother (albeit the terror she was) was an amazing cook and the pasta e patate dish mentioned stuck out to me. It sounds so rich and decadent. My lactose-intolerant friends - this one is not for you. I’m writing this before dinner time and I truly want to make this tonight. This recipe sounds so flavorful with tomatoes, lots of cheese, potatoes, and pancetta. Chef’s kiss.

The Tablescape

My mind saw blue here. It may have been because of the vivid ocean scenery that was a thread throughout the novels. There’s also something very timeless about the color blue. Paired with this vintage butter yellow flatware from Elsie Green, it feels from another era (unfortunately this sold out right after I sent it so I’ve linked to more vintage flatware from Elsie Green).

1. Vintage Tablecloth, Etsy

2. Various Tableware, Bucatini

3. Vintage Flatware, Elsie Green

I’ve had this arrangement saved to one of my flower mood boards for such a long time. The photo is by Charlotte Bland and I believe it was made by a student from one of their retreats at Villa Pia, a dreamy estate nestled in the heart of Tuscany. It feels so quintessentially Italian I can’t quite put my finger on it! It takes my breath away every time I see it. I love the haphazardness and unruliness of it. Similar to Lila and Elena’s rollercoaster relationship.

The Outfit

Couldn’t quite get Jackie Kennedy out of my head when it was referenced several times in regard to Lila’s outfits. I was also envisioning Dakota Fanning’s character in the new Ripley. Overall, a 1950’s-1960’s nod to mod with gingham, shift dresses, and exaggerated sunnies.

Dress, Scarf, Sunglasses, Shoes

The Playlist

Transporting you to Italy, one song at a time.

The Mood Board

Image credits from left to right: Luchino Visconti, Anna Pihan, Charlotte Bland, Luigi Barzini, Pinterest, Pinterest, Pinterest, Still from Talented Mr. Ripley (1999), Anna Pihan, Image of Joan Didion sourced from Pinterest.