It's been hovering around zero degrees in Florence, but it hardly stopped the peacocks at the annual Pitti Uomo from lining the renowned fair's walls to let photographers grab a glimpse of their immaculate attire.
The event has become a must for menswear fashion lovers. It's where gents flock to see how others curate their wardrobes – sure there's name-dropping, label-endorsed wearing, but for the most part these rising stars are making a wish upon one in the hope of being discovered by a famous street-style photographer for their dapper efforts.
1. Go bold or go home
The dandy gentleman re-emerged out of hibernation, showing their true colours by wearing plenty of it.
![It's all smiles at the annual Pitti Uomo.](/web/20170220234649im_/http://www.executivestyle.com.au/content/dam/images/g/t/s/b/i/j/image.related.articleLeadwide.520x294.gts978.png/1484608406965.jpg)
Bold colours are clearly back, particularly in the form of statement overcoats – without it your outfit simply isn't complete. What's more, men aren't shying from the bright shades as they may have once before.
Crimson reds, Paddington-like browns, rich purples and syrupy caramels were popular at Pitti.
Worn with collars up, two buttons closed and layered in the most elegant of ways – some even come with fur lined collars for a head turning wow factor.
![Men hit their stride, or is it strut, at the annual trade fair.](/web/20170220234649im_/http://www.executivestyle.com.au/content/dam/images/g/t/s/b/3/o/image.related.articleLeadwide.520x294.gts978.png/1484608406965.jpg)
2. Goodbye dandy, hello mobster
The Pitti gent embraced tweed like it was 1970, opted for bolero cape coats with a nod to the Venice Carnivale and some wore wrap-like versions that swerved between Robin Hood meets Venetian masquerade. Some chose mustard and orange shades to make a playful 80s comeback, but when teamed with paisley scarves and rollneck sweaters gave it a modern nuance.
Tailoring took a Hollywood hook-turn this year with the arrival of the archetypal mob gangster suit – think broad checks, a slight drop crotch pant and looser fitting in the leg but still tapered. The three-piece suit was in abundance, especially a double-breasted vest for the keen fashion chaser.
The use of bold checks in the most unusual of combinations prevailed in suits. Deep red weaved through deep ocean blue checks while wide lapels and ties hailed the mobster in all his Mafioso glory.
![An overview of looks seen at this year's Pitti Uomo.](/web/20170220234649im_/http://www.executivestyle.com.au/content/dam/images/g/t/s/b/9/d/image.related.articleLeadwide.520x294.gts978.png/1484608406965.jpg)
3. Fashion gamechangers
Europeans have – for now – waved goodbye to the blue suit and brown has become the new local hero. Many gents who wore brown suiting did so with caps, driving gloves, corduroy trousers and heavy tweed blazers.
Mismatching your footwear also prevailed. Buying the same pair of sneaker in two colour way and wearing them as the odd-couple was the chosen way by the fashion agitators.
Loafers continue to be popular – either in leather or suede and colours ranging from cherry red to tan and chocolate. But the Double monk shoe strap continues to be the king – some with tassel fringes and always worn with pants shorter in length.
4. The art of adding more
Accessories and knowing how to team them with your winter outfit ruled the Florentine streets too. Scarves were in abundance from paisley to check, mohair and thick wool knits wrapped like armory, while other men wore scarves as shawls over suits. It was all about pattern clashing with plenty of camouflage still appearing here.
When it comes to headwear – the Pitti peacock wore tweed hats, elegant fedoras and even caps. Add to this the hearty mix of grandpa collar shawl cardigans and the clear message is every decade between the 40s to the 80s are finding a place in menswear this upcoming winter – so get ready for a 'back to the future' moment.
5. Coppell's runway debut
Belgian designer Tim Coppell made his runway debut at Pitti. The designer, who usually unveils his collection in New York, chose Italy as his destination this time around.
Coppell's move made sense as his collection revealed a balance of tailoring meets athletic attire - slim silhouette track pant inspired trousers matched with a blazer and fitted with chunky knits. This is urbanwear with a European heartbeat but squarely aimed at the hipster.
There were bomber jackets with shearling collars and intarsia knitwear. He built his winter storyboard on neutral tones and added pops of yellow, blue and red for an 80s kickback.
Check out the gallery above to see the best street style at this year's Pitti Uomo.