Pitti Uomo 110: Our Take from Florence
Twice a year, Florence welcomes the world's leading cloth mills, tailoring houses, menswear brands, retailers and enthusiasts for Pitti Uomo, widely regarded as the most influential menswear trade show in the world. More than just a trade fair, it's where the global menswear community comes together to share ideas, discover new collections and build lasting relationships through a shared passion for classic menswear.
This year's edition was held during an Italian heatwave, making it the perfect setting to see how tailoring continues to evolve for warmer climates. After a few incredible days in Florence, one thing was clear: menswear is continuing to move in a more relaxed, expressive and wearable direction.
Relaxed Tailoring, Wider Cuts and Higher Waists
Across the fair, we noticed a strong move towards softer silhouettes. Jackets were lighter and less structured, trousers were fuller through the leg, and higher waists were a recurring detail.
It felt less about sharp, rigid tailoring and more about clothes that move naturally with the wearer. The best looks still had shape and proportion, but with an ease that made them feel current.
Colour, Tone and Summer Texture
While there was no shortage of colour, it was the way it was styled that stood out. Tonal dressing remained a strong theme, with soft pastels and muted shades layered together to create looks that felt relaxed, sophisticated and effortless. It was a subtle approach that allowed the cloth, texture and silhouette to take centre stage.
Linen remained the clear summer favourite, not only in suits but also in casual tailoring such as safari and military-inspired overshirts, relaxed jackets and open-neck shirts.
As the heat ramped up, tailoring was often worn with T-shirts, singlets and sandals. It was a reminder that tailored clothing does not always need to feel formal. When done well, it can be relaxed, practical and still incredibly stylish.
Beyond the Trade Fair
One of the highlights of Pitti Uomo is what happens beyond the exhibition halls. We were fortunate to attend a number of memorable events that brought together some of the industry's leading cloth merchants, tailors and makers.
A standout was the Dormeuil x Michael Andrews Bespoke black tie evening at the prestigious St. Regis Florence. With the St. Regis Orchestra performing throughout the night, the atmosphere felt like something out of a movie. Dormeuil also unveiled its new Extreme Vicuña cloth collection, showcasing one of the world's most luxurious and exclusive fibres.
We also attended a breakfast celebrating 130 years of Dugdale Bros, the Paladino x Fox Brothers collaboration event, an evening hosted by Huddersfield Fine Worsteds, and finished with the WM Brown poolside party at Sina Villa Medici, complete with flowing Negronis, cigars and great company.
Dormeuil x Michael Andrews Bespoke Black Tie Event
New Ranges Coming to Zink & Sons
One of the most exciting parts of our visit was discovering new cloth and accessory collections that will soon make their way into the Zink & Sons showroom.
We spent time with Fox Brothers, renowned for their heritage tweeds, and were particularly impressed by their lighter-weight bunches. While we have only carried a small selection of their ranges in the past, these new cloths are perfectly suited to the Australian climate and offer excellent options for year-round wear.
At the trade fair, we also viewed new Spring/Summer accessories, including fresh tie collections and a fantastic new range from TBD Eyewear, both of which we're looking forward to introducing to the showroom in the coming months.
Final Thoughts
This year's visit to Florence left us inspired in more ways than one. Beyond the exceptional tailoring and beautiful cloths, it's the conversations, friendships and shared passion for craftsmanship that make Pitti Uomo so special.
We also came away with plenty of ideas that translate perfectly to the Australian climate, from lighter cloths and softer construction to relaxed tailoring designed for the way Australians dress.