The Good Kind of Pitti Party

Menswear enthusiasts get three Christmases each year. The traditional and festive Christian celebration at the end of December, in addition to two different three-day gatherings of thousands of menswear brands in the birthplace of sophisticated dressing: Florence, Italy. The trade show is aptly named Pitti Uomo. The most recent convention-like festival took place from January 10-13, showcasing 1,073 menswear brands from around the world at Florence’s famed Fortezza da Basso. The trade show was created in the 1970s to promote different menswear labels and allow for new brands to be premiered for the thousands of department stores and boutique buyers, along with editors from all of the great men’s magazines.

Among the notable brands that set up shop in the walled fortress was Mark McNairy’s third collection for Woolrich Woollen Mills; the blues and grays seen throughout complemented the classic Civil War style. Another great brand found at the show is a Haberdash favorite, L.B.M. 1911. The impressive maker of fine Italian blazers showed their new creations, which will be perfect for the coming summer months. Other key brands to watch will be British shoemaker, Grenson—always crafting the perfect brogue—along with classic Gitman Bros. shirts and neckwear.

This trade show is produced twice a year (January and June), accompanied by a women’s wear, children’s, and home décor shows as well. Upcoming trends are seen first here, then literally exported around the world. Pitti Uomo is not just an Italian legacy, it extends into countless other nations, all the way into men’s closets, providing style that is accessible to anyone and everyone.

As seen in Tommy Ton’s Street Style: Pitti Uomo on GQ