The Italians Have It

When it comes to style, the Italians are ahead of the game.

Fashion trends tend to originate in  Milan, Paris, New York and Tokyo. New York and Paris are best known for austere and fierce fashions. From Tokyo we usually get the avant-garde and very architecturally style clothing. Italy on the other hand, gives us a real sense of fun and audacity that reflects not only the vibe of the country but the confidence of the people who reside there.

Twice a year the fashion conoscenti flock to these cities to experience the shows and decide what we - the consumer - should be buying in stores across the world. No doubt the shows have a great influence on buyers. But who has the most influence on the designers that are responsible for the clothes walking the runways? 

The people in the city. 

Street style has been the driving force for design inspiration through the years. Italian designers like Miuccia Prada, Luca Missoni and Giorgio Armani - to name a few - have often expressed how the people of their city inspire their design. 

The essence of Italian living is very apparent in their clothing. A lifestyle where everyone kisses each other on both cheeks, where hand gestures are as essential to communicating as words, where eating gelato is not only a creamy and delicious treat; it is almost a national past time, where naps are a must and where Sofia Loren still reigns supreme cannot birth any other style than one of beautiful, sexy, fun, colorful, bright confidence. These are the qualities that make Italian design come to life and take the top spot on my fashion meter.

Here are some samples of men in the streets of Milan.

Men can wear various pattern within the same outfit and look elegant and well put together.

No need to be drab, have fun with color

 

Pocket squares or accessories; wear them with gusto!

So no matter where you are, you can always add a little flair to your look and pay homage to Italian fashion. I try to add a touch of it myself to the men I style without ever negating or forgetting that each of my clients have their unique sense of style. My job is to suggest, their job - and yours - is to follow their heart and always feel good in what you wear. 

Photos courtesy of GQ archive.