Tech Meets Fashion at Pitti Uomo 89

Pitti Uomo 89 just concluded in Milan. The fashion event, renowned in the men's world, is one of the most important events around the global that showcases men's fashion and accessories. If you are a menswear fan, you have probably been following the awesome street style shots on Instagram over the past few days. 

The sartorial crowd did not come to Florence just to see ready-to-wear and accessories. Patti Uomo 89 featured some vendors that are the pinnacle of the fusion between high fashion and hi-tech. I think this is an area that will continue to grow as we become more conscious of not only the aesthetic of our style, namely our clothes selections, but also to our tech accessories as they are becoming a larger and larger part of every day life. We have seen designers collaborate with tech companies, such as the Hermes Apple Watch. 

One brand, PRYMA, is fusing style and Italian quality into tech accessories with its eye-catching line of headphones. Handmade in Italy, the PRYMA headphones by World of Macintosh combine world-class sound quality with high-end styling....making them a great choice for the most discerning music lover.

The line comes in five distinct designs, offering Italian leather removable headbands, die-cast aluminum ear cup body, removable double-socket cable, and copper and stainless steel buckles. Given the stylish appeal of these headphones, I think Pitti was the perfect setting to showcase the 100% made in Italy line.

Which color is your favorite?

Images: PRYMA

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie Presents Jamaica House at Pitti Uomo

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie is presenting their Spring/Summer 2015 collection at Pitti Uomo in Florence by inviting guests to experience the leisure and luxury of their latest collection in their Jamaica House. This follows the brands "Alpine Lodge" which debuted at Pitti in January.

The designers get inspiration for each new collection from various places, however, travel destinations that have left an impact on the designers is a large source of inspiration. The destination of Jamaica, this year's inspiration, embodies a certain nostalgia for the designers as they are Jamaican. 

The influence of the Jamaican landscape can be seen in the Spring/Summer 15 collection which is filled with bright colors and interesting textures. The new line also introduces a tropical garden print, exclusive to the brand. Sea hues, palm greens, and raffia weaves are evident across the classic silhouettes. 

The display of the new collection will be open during the entire 86th Pitti Uomo if you happen to be traveling to Florence. The brand is presenting their entire Spring/Summer 2015 collection which also excludes their first venture into footwear.

Interview: Nick Wooster Designs Collection for Lardini

Pitti Uomo is underway in the beautiful city of Florence, Italy, and while I am bummed that I could not make it to Florence, it is great to follow along with all the exciting developments in the world of menswear. On June 18th, the Lardini Group announced its collaboration with fashion icon, Nick Wooster. I have always loved Mr. Wooster's style, especially when he was at the helm of Bergdorfs so I am excited to see his capsule collection which will debut not only in Europe but also in the US and Asian markets.

Lardini is an Italian company that specialized in menswear, but now also produces ranges for both men and women. The group has opened a new showroom in Milan. The company is experiencing positive growth and expects to close 2014 with a growth of 11%. Below, Luigi Lardini, creative director, and Nick Wooster discuss the concept of fashion in a double interview.

1. When was your passion for fashion born?
N.W. Already by the age of 5 I had my own personal taste about how one should dress. I remember that the t-shirts were always too big and it was impossible for my mother to buy something for me. At 15 I began to feel this passion for fashion, so I went to work in a shop, but I didn’t yet know what my path was going to be.
L.L. I believe that I was born with fashion. Some people are born with a veil, or caul, well, I was born with a jacket! It’s something I’ve always felt. At the age of 6 I asked my mother if I could have a Prince-of-Wales check suit.

2. Style is?
N.W. For me style is like the air: it’s just there, difficult to define. I compare it to taste, you don’t know if it’s right or wrong until you try it.
L.L. Yes, style is undefinable. It’s the coming together of simple things. It represents authenticity: from the little accessories to the outerwear that all together build style.

3. How long have you known Lardini/Nick Wooster?
N.W. I’ve known Luigi personally for seven months.
L.L. Exactly; but I’ve known Nick for ages through the social networks and the magazines.

4. What struck you most about them/him?
N.W. The Lardini family is extremely hospitable; I was greatly struck by their kindness and humility. L.L. Nick is an affable, straightforward and likeable fellow. He puts me at my ease and I would define him as a compatriot.

5. A word to describe Luigi’s/Nick’s style?
N.W. Daring.
L.L. Innovative.

6. What should never be missing in a wardrobe?
N.W. Everything is indispensable, but one should never be without a jacket.
L.L. The jacket is essential.

7. What would you pilfer from the other’s wardrobe?
N.W. His 007. And also his field jackets.
L.L. His exclusive jackets.

8. What do two style icons like you feel like when you go round together?
N.W. It’s great fun.
L.L. Yes, enormous fun. The last time we were in Florence we couldn’t move five yards. Everyone wanted a photo or to exchange a couple of words with Nick. Next time I’m going to get him to wear a black bag on his head.

The Collection

The collaboration will be a harmony between the unique style of Nick Wooster and knowledge of Lardini. The color palette will be that of classic menswear- grey, khaki, olive, and navy. The collection consists of 4 jacket styles, 4 models of trousers, and woven shirts based on a play of fabrics. Jackets will range from constructed to unconstructed and trousers will include both slim and straight as well as dropped crotch. Wooster will be sure not to disappoint!