A Reflection Of Italy

Italy is notorious for high-end value products in the apparel industry. The eye is commonly geared to detail. Just think of the famous fashion houses “Prada, Miu Miu and Armani” just to name a few. In September 2015, Elle Magazine called out:

“Italy’s has remained surprisingly unchanged. Part of the problem, says Arthur Arbesser, one of the few young designers garnering international attention right now, is that—unlike in London or New York— Milan has no organization to help foster new talent.”

Change comes with an applause when is done in a positive way. Highlighting the statement Elle magazine made refers to the lack of excitement in the Italian fashion industry. For the time being Italy is consistent in staying true to their heritage. Paying homage to timeless silhouettes is what distinguishes them from other countries. So why staying constant is not working? There are many things I’m sure you can reply with.

 

I experienced it firsthand  a few years back working for an Italian fashion house myself.  “No change” caused great damage to Diesel a brand who been around for ages. No matter what Renzo Rosso (the founder of the brand) did to advertise the latest collections is still look similar to his past creations and consumers kept requesting for something fresh.He had to close a total of 6 stores in New York including the  brands that were an extension of Diesel 55DSL, Diesel Kids and Diesel Black Gold.

 

Italy fashion council took it upon themselves to elect Carlo Capasa (fashion designer),  as the president of the Italian Chamber of Fashion(a non-profit organization that promotes the Italian fashion industry and the training of young Italian designers).He will also serve as CEO. His goal in his own words: “foster innovation within Milan’s fashion community by offering real support, infrastructures, training, and financial support”.

 

 

So I kept this all in mind when I went to Uomo Moderno magazine winter launch party hosted by the first and only men’s fashion and lifestyle magazine from Italy, launched by Francesco Di Maio.Just like another male representation magazine in the US, for example, Complex, The magazine branched out to women in their last few issues to convert a general sense of a guide “living in the Italian style,” as it features articles on Italy’s fashion, décor, cuisine and so much more!The event was sponsored by “Toys For Tots” and to keep things in the family raffle winners won a fine wine collection from Italy.

The first part of the fashion was dedicated to reconstructed denim (Levis n particular.)I love the mix of leather and rip and tear gave it a touch edge that relays easily to any street style outfit.

Latte is the inspiration for the second part of the show.Not the caffè latte you will order from Starbucks but close.Latte in Italy means milk.As the model started to showcase the collection and I couldn’t see the resemblance other than the milk carton from Italy has many cartoony features in its package (Yes I had to google it lol).

I could see the collection being sold in the sale section of H&M.With the school league assembly of printed tees exclaiming the repetitive saying of Keep Calm I just expected more.

Nevertheless, I did like two things.The two piece shaded in  sunshine yellow you can telling even from sitting in the audience the material appear to be a soft hand and was tailored really well.Last but not least OMG SHOES I doubt the designer made them but they were a sight to see.