Part two
 

This is part two of the above.
It is not finished as my sister was not as patient as her hubby.

She is wearing a white shirt which is not yet in, but my main problem is with her expression. I took a photo to finish the painting off, and she looks really annoyed. I didn't want to add a big smile, just turn the corners of the mouth to a more serene position.
She still does look a snobbish Italian aristocrat, which she is, but I think with a few adjustment will make her more sweet and proletarian.(what?! Sweet, my sister, that snake?).
I will try to post a better photo, today is too sunny here in London and there is too much glare, it won't take long for the weather to change, I am sure!
Critiques welcome, thanks to all for looking
Ilaria

Do not, I repeat, do not turn up the corners of her mouth. She is wonderful JUST as she is.

The color is quite lovely and expressive. Her face has that wonderful and indefinable expression of someone who never, ever shops at sales.

Patrizio's painting is quite wonderful as to color as well. I think the blue sky could go from a darker blue on one side or top to give the painting more of a picture plane. The area on his neck could use some editing or simplification.

Your best so far, especially in your fresh use of color.

I won't then
 

I won't tilt them more then!

I did turn them up a little bit but I'll stop now!

Believe me she does shop at sales... we haven't got much left other than a long name. But she is quite keen on it so...

Patrizio's background was actually a piece of cloth, there is a hint of drapery, maybe it does not show in the photo. I might darken the upper corner though, I'll experiment with photoshop before repainting, otherwise I'll end up painting all over it!

Thank you for helping,
Ilaria

Ilaria,

She has a great look and one that is coveted by the up and coming and the already there, the look of a long patrician lineage. Most clients LOVE to be painted that way!

Ah, to see with the eyes of an artist.

I agree with Sharon and I'm glad you have decided not to change her character. You are seeing who she really is, apparently.

a better photo
 

Slightly better photo, I knew London's weather would not spare me a cloudy day!