Photos by Marco Badiani
Before Milan ever entered the fashion arena, Florence dictated national dress codes and tastes. Never one to easily let go of tradition, Florence continues to cement her status as an international style capital. At no time of year is this more obvious than during the Pitti Immagine winter showcases.
‘Walkabout’ is the thoroughly of-the-moment theme for the winter 2015 shows, currently taking place and beginning with the world-renowned menswear event, Pitti Uomo. ‘Walkabout’ alludes to modern urban life, highlighting streets and public spaces as personal catwalks. ‘Walking is in vogue,’ explained Agostino Poletto, vice-director of Pitti Immagine. ‘Today more than ever, it expresses one’s lifestyle, and it draws attention to how one is dressed: it’s an ode to…the utility and style of different outfits, and the centrality of accessories.’ With the fashion industry becoming ever more democratized through scores of street-style blogs, live streaming of runway shows and accessible designers on social media, this year’s theme is particularly on point.
Despite the shifting style landscape, however, Pitti maintains a high level of exclusivity. Events are open only to accredited buyers, designers and journalists, who get a first look at emerging trends through international stands like ‘Unconventional.’ New and highly anticipated for this year, this section of the showcase focuses on ‘underground luxury,’ highlighting 20 labels from Turkey, Canada, Russia and Japan. Star-spangled style takes center stage at the ‘Born in the USA’ stand, which underlines 22 of the most noteworthy labels founded and manufactured in the United States.
Fashion house Marni is also putting on one of the most prestigious, invite-only shows at the Marino Marini Museum. Pitti Uomo has designated the Marni house as this edition’s special Menswear Guest Designer.
Though the VIP events are staunchly guarded, there is room for ‘mere mortals’ to sample the fashionable fun from afar. Keep your eyes peeled for outrageous outfits and famous faces (Tilda Swinton is in town). For the sartorially inclined set, put on your Pitti best and you could become an Insta-star. If you’re more comfortable behind the camera, send your chicest snapshots to redazione@theflorentine.net for a chance to be published on The Florentine’s social media channels.
