Emily in Paris in Rome: the words of Lily Collins at the press conference

Emily in Paris goes to Rome. Starting September 12, Netflix will release the second part of the fourth season of the series starring Lily Collins, along with her ever-changing wardrobe and love life. Created by Darren Star, the mastermind behind the iconic Sex and the City—essentially the romantic and sexual education of an entire generation—Emily in Paris skyrocketed to popularity from its 2020 release. A global phenomenon not just due to the pandemic, but also because, like Bridgerton, it ushered in the return of a specific kind of show: one made for pure escapism.

Emily goes to Rome

The show is characterized by a palpable lightness, so whimsical that it almost makes you want to move to the French capital and solve all your life’s problems, just as magically as the protagonist does. In the second part of the new season, we find Emily still working for the Grateau Agency, torn once again between the ever-present Gabriel, played by Lucas Bravo, and a new love interest from Italy. Eugenio Franceschini, born in 1991 and originally from Verona, plays her guide in the style of Audrey Hepburn—the posters for parts one and two clearly reference My Fair Lady and Roman Holiday—leading her through rustic trattorias and Vespa rides. "They really use Vespas, I’ve seen it!" Lily Collins made sure to point out during the press presentation of the new chapter in Rome. By the end of the season, it hints that the capital might just become Emily’s new home if a fifth season is confirmed.

The cast of Emily in Paris speaks at the Rome press conference

"I love Paris, but I also love Rome," says Star. "It’s definitely the second most romantic city in the world, one that everyone dreams of visiting. The story naturally led us here, blending the city’s glamour with its luxury. It was the perfect setting to carry the themes of the show." Just like Paris, Rome brings a transformation in Collins’ character: "When I first arrived, it was just Eugenio and me filming. There was part of the crew, but the feeling was the same as when we started Emily in Paris. A protagonist, alone, moving from Chicago to a foreign city." However, after four seasons, Emily is no longer the same. "We finally see her have a breakdown. Do I have to say it? It was about time," confesses the actress. "She’s no longer the girl she was when we first met her, and her style reflects that. Once full of colors, tulle, and polka dots, her look is now more understated, monochromatic. She still has her unique taste, but she’s growing up. It’s a transformation expressed through her clothes and even her makeup, which is almost non-existent this season. She’s an adult now, which also means learning to show vulnerability."

Emily’s character evolution and the importance of her look

This evolution is driven by the latest love triangle she finds herself in, having moved on from poor Alfie, played by Lucien Laviscount: "This time Emily will learn that sometimes you don’t have to choose. In fact, you can choose not to choose," she continues. "She decides to embrace what life has in store for her. And with Rome, she could start a new life." If she decides to leave everything behind and start fresh, one thing that will surely stay in her suitcase are the outfits and the advice of costume designer Marylin Fitoussi, from the faux shearling coat by Isabel Marant Étoile to the leather thigh-high boots by Christian Louboutin—and if you want to copy her look, the entire collection inspired by the TV series is available on Vestiaire Collective, the luxury second-hand online store that also appears in the first episode of season four.

Fashion for Lily Collins and the cinematic references to Rome

Fashion has always been important not only in Emily’s life but also for Lily Collins herself. "I felt honored to have talked to all the costume designers and stylists. The series can even serve as a showcase for lesser-known names. Expressing myself through clothing is something I’m familiar with, and for Emily, it’s been an evolution. Thanks to the collaboration with Harris Reed, I’ve had the privilege of wearing true pieces of art." While the cast enjoys their Roman tour—not all of them had visited the Eternal City, so now they’ll have the chance to play tourists—the show fills itself with references to classic Italian cinema, without losing its pop allure. As confirmed by Ashley Park: "For others, seeing Rome on the big screen might make them think of classic films. For me, I admit, it brings to mind The Lizzie McGuire Movie." And we can assure you that the Emily in Rome effect is quite similar (unfortunately, without the songs).