Steve Barth
The men’s fashion shows are moving from London to Italy this week, starting with Pitti Uomo in Florence and then moving on to Milan Fashion Week. While some big names like Versace and Gucci are absent from the lineup, there are still plenty of exciting highlights to look forward to. One of the much-anticipated shows is Fendi, which will be leaving Milan to showcase its collection in Tuscany. The Italian brand will unveil its new collection at the Fendi Factory in Capannuccia, south of Florence, on June 15. Another notable designer showing at Pitti Uomo is Eli Russell Linnetz, the guest designer for the ERL label. Thai designer Chu Suwannapha is also expected to present a special installation.
The 104th edition of Pitti Uomo will feature new projects and special events, with a total of 825 exhibitors, 43% of them from abroad. Some of the highlights include the 50th anniversaries of Arena, Doucal’s shoes, and Fila’s F Box logo, as well as the 15th anniversary of Giuseppe Zanotti’s men’s collection. German brand Drykorn is also making a comeback, and Florentine tailor Liverano & Liverano will be participating for the first time. In addition to the main event, there will be parallel events such as the “Runways Icons” group show organized by fashion chain LuisaViaRoma and British Vogue, which will showcase looks from luxury labels.
Milan Fashion Week, which follows Pitti Uomo, has a reduced format this season. There will be a total of 22 shows, including a double show by Giorgio Armani, spread over two full days and two half-days, with five digital format shows on the closing morning. Notable highlights of Milan Fashion Week include the return of Neil Barrett, who had opted for video presentations since the Covid-19 crisis in January 2020. He will be returning to the catwalk on June 17. Another designer making a comeback is 44 Label Group, the brand launched by Berlin techno DJ Max Kobosil. Ralph Lauren Purple Label line is also returning to the presentation calendar. Among the new arrivals is Andersson Bell, a brand from Seoul that combines Korean street style with Scandinavian minimalism. They will be making their debut on the Milan catwalks on June 18.
Overall, the men’s fashion shows in Italy are expected to be filled with excitement and new discoveries. While some big names are missing, there are still plenty of opportunities for emerging designers and labels to showcase their collections. Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to a week full of innovative designs and captivating shows, as Italy takes center stage in the world of menswear fashion.
