Summer Escapades: Bettina in Sicily
Boarding passes at the ready? Your ticket to holiday with the Level community is here, as our friends extend the invitation to join them in their favourite places to spend the summer.
In the latest instalment of Level’s Summer Escapades series, personal stylist and tastemaker Bettina Looney shares her must-have buys, nostalgic summer memories, and how she styles a family-focused trip to Sicily. Discover more and shop her picks for the season now.
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What does summer mean to you?
Family memories, great meals with friends, salty hair and of course fun summer looks.
Us too! What has been your go-to look?
This year has definitely been a bit different given the new addition I am carrying along. I’ve gone for more fitted pieces. Ballerinas have been my saving grace, and I probably went a bit more extra on the accessories, as I love a statement jewellery piece.
Tell us about your most treasured memory of summer.
Seeing it through my son’s eyes.
What does a typical summer day in Sicily look like?
It usually starts with an early morning trip to the fishmonger and vegetable stand in the local town to select either lunch or dinner. We then hang out by the pool or the beach depending on the weather. There is definitely a long meal somewhere in between either in a local town or at home. Most days involve some form of tart with herbs and vegetables from the garden. And a lovely aperitif with friends and family. Oh, and of course, a quick outing for granita and gelato.
When you explore the local dining scene, what has impressed you?
There is this one restaurant that we keep going back to every year that is called Sakalleo. We love everything about this place and it always is a very special experience.
What’s on your summer reading list this year?
At this moment in my life, I only have time for the many books that my son asks me to read him on repeat. One in particular is a Spanish book called “La mala pipa” which is about a naughty sunflower seed who decides he wants to become good again. I’ve probably read it over 100 times just this week (laughs).
And the soundtrack to summer 24?
This year is definitely more varied. It’s a mixture of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” in Spanish and “Patadas de Ahogado” by Hugel.
What is your “can’t live without” summer shoe?
Easily the Repetto ballerina. I love this shoe any day of the week and during pregnancy it hits even better and goes with just about anything
Is there anything you’re styling everything with this summer?
I have been wearing my Miu Miu white Mini Hobo bag on repeat.
What’s your go-to summer snack?
Pistachios.
Do you have any golden advice for anyone travelling to Sicily this summer?
Ask friendly locals for suggestions. Some of the best restaurants and pasticcerias we’ve discovered have been local recommendations.
