Cavalli e Nastri
Complete VAT Refund Guide for Europe
Planning to shop at Cavalli e Nastri in Europe? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to maximize your VAT refund savings, where to find Cavalli e Nastri stores across Europe, and insider tips to get the most money back on your purchases.
About Cavalli e Nastri
Born in 1970 from an idea by architect Claudia Jesi, who loved beauty and befriended designers like Gianfranco Ferré and Donatella Versace, Cavalli e Nastri invented Milan's first vintage shop by reviving their clothes. The name "Cavalli e Nastri" (Horses and Ribbons) comes from decorations on luxury 1930s dollhouses that the founder collected. Throughout 50+ years, the shop has become Milan's vintage authority—preferred by stylists, celebrities, and creatives seeking the rarest, most distinctive luxury pieces. The New York Times noted that "Milanese head first to Cavalli e Nastri, the favorite vintage shop of many and one that is frequented by Dolce & Gabbana and the Missonis." Today, the shop operates three locations: two in Via Gian Giacomo Mora (Navigli district—women's at #12, menswear at #3) and one in Via Brera 2. The Via Mora locations sit in Milan's historic canal district, adding to the vintage treasure-hunting atmosphere.
Signature Products & Prices
Vintage Versace (1980s-90s)
€200–€1,500
Vintage Ferré Pieces
€150–€800
Italian Designer Bags
€100–€600
Vintage Missoni Knitwear
€120–€400
Designer Accessories
€50–€300
Why Shop Cavalli e Nastri in Europe?
Cavalli e Nastri is Milan's original vintage shop (1970) with 50+ years curating Italian designer archives. Shopping here means accessing Versace, Ferré, and Missoni vintage unavailable elsewhere, often sourced directly from designer connections. Italy's 15.5% VAT refund on purchases over €70.01 makes luxury vintage significantly more affordable than equivalent pieces at international auction houses.
Best Cities to Shop Cavalli e Nastri
Milan
Three locations since 1970, birthplace of Italian luxury vintage shopping
Why Shop Cavalli e Nastri with TravelMoney
Up to 100% VAT Refunds
Get significantly more money back compared to standard 12% refunds
1 Cavalli e Nastri Locations
Across 1 European cities
Instant Refunds
No waiting weeks for your money back
Digital Process
Upload receipts, scan at airport, done
Cavalli e Nastri Store Locations in Europe
Milan
Cavalli e Nastri Brera
Via Brera, 2, 20121 Milano, Italy
📞 +39 02 7200 0449
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 19:30
tuesday: 10:00 - 19:30
wednesday: 10:00 - 19:30
thursday: 10:00 - 19:30
friday: 10:00 - 19:30
saturday: 10:00 - 19:30
sunday: 14:00 - 19:00
How Much Can You Save?
VAT Refund Examples
Purchase: €1,000 → Get back €120-150 (standard refund) or up to €180 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €5,000 → Get back €600-750 (standard refund) or up to €900 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €10,000 → Get back €1,200-1,500 (standard refund) or up to €1,800 (TravelMoney)
How to Get Your VAT Refund: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Before making a purchase
Request Custom Invoice
When checking out at Cavalli e Nastri, request the invoice to be made out to "Travel Money" with our Paris address. This is critical for maximizing your refund.
Step 2: When making a purchase
Pay in Local Currency
Always choose to pay in euros (€) instead of your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and maximize savings.
Step 3: After shopping
Upload Invoice & Receipt
Immediately upload your Cavalli e Nastri invoice and receipt in the TravelMoney app. Don't wait until you get to the airport.
Step 4: When leaving the EU
Scan Barcode at Point of Departure
At the airport, port, or train station, scan the barcode on your TravelMoney app at customs. Bring your Cavalli e Nastri purchase in carry-on for potential inspection.
VAT Refund Essentials
Core Requirements
- Minimum Spend: €70.01 in total purchase value
- Eligibility: Non-EU permanent residents, under 6-month stay, purchasing goods for personal use
- Time limits: 3 months to validate at point of departure + 6 months to claim refund
- VAT Rate: 22% standard rate (most luxury goods)
Pro Tips for Cavalli e Nastri Shoppers
- →Visit all three locations (Via Brera, Via Mora women's, Via Mora menswear)—each curates different collections
- →Italy offers €70.01 VAT minimum with up to 15.5% refunds—one of Europe's best rates
- →Frequented by Dolce & Gabbana, Missonis—expect museum-quality vintage Italian luxury
- →Navigli district (Via Mora) perfect for vintage hunting combined with canal-side aperitivo
- →Ask staff about provenance—many pieces come directly from designer archives
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get VAT refund on Cavalli e Nastri online purchases?
No. VAT refunds are only available for in-store purchases made in Europe. Online orders shipped internationally are already VAT-exempt.
Do I need to show my Cavalli e Nastri purchase at customs?
High-value items (typically over €1,000) may require physical inspection at customs. Keep your purchase in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
What if I'm connecting through a non-EU airport?
You must validate your VAT refund at your last EU point of departure, not your final destination. For example, if flying Paris → London → New York, validate in Paris.
How long does it take to get my refund?
With TravelMoney, refunds are processed instantly once validated at customs. Standard tax-free services can take 4-12 weeks.
For Shoppers
Get up to 100% VAT refunds on your Cavalli e Nastri shopping. Join the waitlist for instant refunds.
For Merchants
Partner with TravelMoney to offer instant VAT refunds and attract more international shoppers.