Everything You Need to Know From Pitti Uomo AW15

Not long after the excitement of London Collections: Men, the fashion fanfare jetted off to Florence for the biannual Pitti Uomo tradeshow. A menswear mecca of sorts, the event plays host to the movers, shakers and most stylish men the globe has to offer as brands showcase their latest collections for their perusal.

While the attendees of fashion week focus on a trend-driven approach to style, in true Italian fashion, Pitti Uomo shifts the focus onto tailoring and has eyes for only the most sartorial side of the wardrobe.

Here are our top takeaways from the 87th iteration of Italy’s largest men’s fashion trade fair.

ROLL NECKS HAVE GONE FULL CIRCLE, , For so long a ridiculed fashion faux pas, the roll or turtleneck jumper has become the coolest (and warmest) choice of knitwear, as the gentlemen of Pitti so astutely proved. Under a suit, it makes the perfect alternative for a shirt and tie and looks just as sharp.

SHADES OF BURGUNDY, , Navy and grey are well rooted in the world of menswear; the neutrals form the backbone of our wardrobes after all. It was a richer colour that really caught the eye in Italy, as various hues of burgundy provided a pop of contained colour to a range of ensembles. One to invest in to brighten up your winter-wear on the drearier days.

GOING MAD FOR PLAID, , Squares were prevalent across the metaphorical board, attaching themselves to everything from suits and scarves to tailored separates and topcoats. From gun checks to tartan, the straight edged print had no equal in this street style battle.

DOUBLING UP, , Two breasts are better than one, or so the men at Pitti Uomo certainly thought. This month’s show provided a platform that saw the single-breasted monopoly face stiff competition as jackets of a double-breasted ilk were well represented. Fuller cut waistcoats in particular numbered highly and are a style statement worth emulating.

NEED FOR TWEED, , Fabric wise, the standout in Florence was a traditional tweed. If you’ve yet to bite the bullet on this rugged material we certainly suggest doing so immediately. It’s perfect for outfitting you on shooting days as much as a means to freshen up your winter ready office attire.

MARGARET HOWELL MAKES ITALIAN DEBUT, , Celebrated British fashion designer, Margaret Howell, renowned for her simple design and quality of construction opened her flagship Italian store during the Florence event – her first in the country. With a minimalist aesthetic and sleek design, mirroring that of her clothing, the store is well worth a visit if you’re in the neighbourhood.

Margaret Howell – 5R Piazza Carlo Goldoni 50123 Florence

NICK WOOSTER WAS EVERYWHERE, , As men’s fashion figures go, Nick Wooster is certainly in the upper echelons. The street style icon, a Pitti regular, was not only attending the event, he was presenting also. His second collaboration with luxury Italian label Lardini, was shown to the press during the fair and was a true reflection of the man’s inimitable style; patchwork suits featured heavily.

By Alex Woodhall