uomo
Image: StreetFSN
The 81st iteration of massive menswear tradeshow Pitti Uomo is underway in Florence, Italy. If you've been keeping up with blogs, twitter, and tumblr feeds of the #menswear-obsessed, you're probably aware of it. The thing is, most of these clothes won't even hit stores for months, and let's be honest — we'll never be able to afford a lot of these costly designer duds.
That doesn't mean there aren't a few things we can glean from the numerous photos of stylish guys and press previews of upcoming collections. For us regular dudes, the takeaways we can get aren't to duplicate the looks by buying the same exact things, but get a feel for what's hot and make it our own — either by wearing the clothes we already have differently, or seeking out similar, more affordable alternatives. For those of us who aren't big shot buyers or respected fashion editors, here's 10 Style Tips Real Guys Can Learn From Pitti Uomo.
texture
Image: StreetFSN
10. Texture
Fabrics like tweed and corduroy are classically casual, and known for having a distinct feel. We're noticing a lot of coats and outerwear with a slubby, rumpled look — think of your favorite knit sweater after a few months, when the fabric is all pilled. That rugged, worn-in characteristic adds a laid-back vibe to any outfit, whether paired with a denim jacket or shirt and tie. Think about rocking a corduroy blazer or pair of tweed pants to bring a little Italian flair into your kit.
shawl
Image: Josh Peskowitz
9. Shawl Collars
A shawl collar like this — with a rounded shape, is a little more formal than the notched lapels you normally see on outerwear like peacoats. It's a classy look made popular by the smoking jackets rocked by Hugh Hefner and numerous tuxedos. Any guy can put one on and all of a sudden look a little more luxurious. This shawl collar peacoat from Rag & Bone is a perfect example.
backpack
Image: Justin Chung
8. Simple Backpacks
A military-inspired rucksack is ten times more stylish than the JanSport you had in middle school and the technical bag you use for camping. It's a great balance of masculine design and modern practicality. Plus you won't look like you just got out of class.
casual
Image: The Sartorialist
7. The New Casual
Here's the men's fashion world's big secret: we don't dress up in shirts and ties all the time. That doesn't mean you'll catch us outside in a velvet sweatsuit or ill-fitting jeans. The new casual is all about simplicity and subtlety. Dark colors, untucked shirts that are still slim but not tight, cuffed pants that are just a little uneven, shoes that toe the line between formal and casual, and versatile parkas that can be thrown on over anything.