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Fashion Feature

Pitti Uomo

Subdued

I enjoy going to Pitti Uomo in Florence in January. It’s working blended in with pleasure. The historical city is romantic, charming, and pleasing to the eye. The best characteristic about Pitti Uomo is the atmosphere. Mens outfits of the day take center stage. Dandy’s dressed up showing off their best looks, always up for a conversation about what they are wearing.  

This year the bi-annual menswear gathering felt a bit subdued. Low-key to the point of average. What Happened? I am not so sure. Many brands pulled back this year. Instead of celebrations, somber reflection took place.

It Had to Happen 

I had conversations about Barneys New York. The luxury department store had been floundering for a while, but there was optimism it would pull through. Not this time, the bankruptcy hit home. An earthquake felt around the mens fashion world. If this one, who is next? Barneys championed new brands. A place to test trends. The menswear buyer was well known at Pitti Uomo, always talking to designers and labels about their collections. No more! The New York iconic flagship store has “Going Out of Business” and “Everything Must Go” signs on the doors and windows. More thought provoking, nothing has emerged to take Barneys place. Making it harder for new designers to break into mainstream consumer conscienceless.

There were gems of course at Pitti Uomo. I visited Japanese shoe designer Kanpekina. His footwear makes me tingle. A second Japanese designer I met, Kunihiko Morinaga from Anrealage, produces many unique menswear pieces. Especially stunning are his statement patchwork looks in the form of jackets and polo shirts. The finish and rich details demonstrate luxury tailoring.

Impressed 

Florence is a city of Grand Settings. I have had the privilege of visiting a few during Pitti Uomo. The most impressive presentation was by Brioni for its 75thanniversary. The luxury brand wanted set the scene for luxury, a Florentine Palazzo. Six rooms with a chamber concert musicians wearing the latest looks. Take That Downton Abbey! 

Stay Tuned for more on Pitti Uomo.

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Fashion

Pitti Uomo Dandy Report

It is always fun to attend Pitti Uomo.  The Dandys or Peacocks walking around showing off their looks are impressive but at times some looks felt overdone.  We think what makes a great look is if the looks seem effortless not like a math equation.

Stylist Gianni and I share share our views from Florence.

More from Pitti Uomo.  Stay Tuned.

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Fashion

Coming Soon, Florence

We are counting down to Florence.  Pitt Uomo for all the menswear tends. 

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Fashion

Cividini

 I have successfully worked with Cividini on many occasions. Styling on Red Carpets, casual looks for day wear, I had great success each time.   As far as the collections, quality fabrics, classic looks shinning through.   The wearer does not suffocate under the pieces.  

Check out the videos below. The first is from Florence, the other from Milan. 



I am a fan of Cividini. When I wrote “Conflict of Interest” about the brand I did not want readers to think because I have worked successfully with the team they influence my opinion of the looks. No! The pieces fit my style and what I would recommend. When it comes to dressing I lean to to understated side. Let the clothes speak. People who are in the know, know quality.  There is no need for over the top monograms or labels. When I wore Cividini pieces in Paris, I got compliments.  That is what I like.

In the Age when Influencers are paid for endorsements. I try to be authenticate.

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Fashion Feature

Moneta’s Interpretation

A interpretation of a peacoat, Moneta adds vivid colours to classic outwear.   I grabbed him for a quick review at the presentation.  My verdict,  I liked it. But I may have been biased. 

Women’s Peacoat 
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Fashion

Statement Menswear

While At Pitti Uomo this year I stumbled on the menswear brand In The Box.  I am a fan of knitwear, then mixed with color. It has my attention. For a gentlemen looking for statement accessories, I recommend the label. The Italian company produces all of its collection in Italy. 

For the nearest store and to learn more about the brand:

Intheboxshop.it 

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Fashion Feature Travel

Can This Bag Survive?

I travel a lot. Sadly, most of my luggage does not make it. I was fond of a stylish brand, but after several broken zippers, including a trolley bag breaking at the Milan Airport. Done! Rearranging clothing in an airport is not a glamorous look! At that moment, I decided to look for a new travel bag label.  

My criterial: Durability, and of course it has to look nice. But I think I will place an emphasis on strength. Are the bag’s compements able to hold up during travel? Cheap, plastic components could mean trouble somewhere.

My first question to the Thule of Sweden team at Pitti Uomo in Florence, “What is the guarantee for a check in trolley?” When he said 4 years, the state of surprise on my face was noticeable. I scanned the brands website. Luggage is listed as “limited lifetime”. After a quick recovery, he showed me the new product line. (See Video) A number of details distinguish the luggage include,  contrasting interior and the minimal Scandinavian exterior design. The design leans more on the masculine side. The subterra bag duffel bag comes in an unique square but tubular shape.

The logo branding on the shell, was something I had to think about. I am not a fan of overt labels but if the quality is in the product, I can live with it.

Along with luggage, available are: Back packs and check in luggage.

I have not tested the Thule brand. I may try it. Can their bag survive flying around from one fashion week to another? Then a bus, then a train? Stay Tuned. 

Images and video sponsored by Canon Deutschland.

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Fashion

Pitti Uomo Highlights

Florence, one of my favourite cities,  I marvel at its culture, food, and history.  Most of all, I love attending Pitti Uomo, the worlds biggest menswear tradeshow.  A place to see and be seen but also to catch the latest trends concerning mens fashion.  

Stay tuned for more complete coverage 

Images made using Canon Camera. Sponsored 

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Fashion

Pitti Uomo Canali

 Shall I say, “Smooth Italian Operator”.  I’m  happy I attended the Canali Presentation.  The looks were based on the companies return to its DNA of casual elegance, lightweight jackets felt heavenly.  I liked the textured outerwear.  Stay Tuned for a full rewrite up.

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Fashion

Pitti Uomo Cards

Which card for Pitti Uomo? I like them all but I think one is enough.