By Giulia Piceni. Cover image by Leonardo Corallini
The Pitti Uomo 2024 fashion fair is right around the corner for real. From January 9 to 12, Florence will start the new season with numerous events in and out of the main location of Fortezza da Basso. Except for Hyper Icons, the glam party organised by Istituto Marangoni Firenze on 9 January, for the average fashion lover and students, the fashion world is based on a strict paradigm that prioritises exclusivity and implies getting an invitation. Traces of this social construct may be found right outside of the events’ entrances, with PR representatives usually asking: “Please, show your invitation” or “Are you on the list?” or even the most terrifying one, “I can’t let you in; your accreditation is not valid”.
In recent years, the fashion industry has made an effort to become more inclusive by allowing non-insiders to access exclusive events. This edition of Pitti Uomo is no exception, as all the following initiatives are invitation-free. So, put on your best outfit and enjoy culturally relevant events while having fun.
PITTI UOMO 105 AS A SALON OF EXCELLENCE IS AN ODE TO QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP
Florence and Tuscany are known for their exceptional manufacturing quality and high level of craftsmanship. Over the years, Pitti Uomo has highlighted these values in a single event known as the Salon of Excellence, a space designed to display the best creative companies that focus their work on the features mentioned above.
This year, the Salon of Excellence is taking place at the exclusive venue of Palazzo Gaddi. The event is curated by Aleksandar Djordjevic, also known as DeGorsi, and features various brands based in Tuscany and other parts of the world. All of these brands are known for their commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, which is in line with the ethos of Pitti Uomo.
The Salon is now open to the public and showcases tailored garments by Sciamat and Skala, the new brand by Nikolas Barelier. Shoes from Ducai Firenze are a must-see, along with leather goods by Ascot Shoes London and accessories by Viola Milano. Considered a staple piece in everybody’s wardrobe, they certainly deserved a place at the Salon of Excellence, being represented by Maison Siniscalchi. Additionally, it is undeniable that tailored pants have made a comeback in recent years, and expert Alberto Voglio is ready to explain the process to all curious visitors.
WP STORE AND RAGGEDY THREADS COLLAB A FEW STEPS AWAY FROM OUR SCHOOL
WP Store is a well-established fashion archive with whom Istituto Marangoni Firenze has had the chance to collaborate for the exhibition dedicated to Gianfranco Ferrè during last June’s Pitti Uomo.
On the January edition of the Pitti Uomo 2024 event and, more specifically, on the 10th of the month, the Via Della Vigna Nuova archive will host a public presentation dedicated to its recent collaboration with Raggedy Threads, a US store specialising in sportswear, military, workwear and 40s and 60s denim, with two venues in New York and Los Angeles respectively.
The collaboration between these two brands promises to produce an exceptional result, given the great heritage held within the hands of WP Archive and the appealing attire that distinguishes Raggedy Threads. Don’t miss the event to have an exclusive look at their style proposals!
PITTI UOMO 2024 WILL WELCOME YOU WITH AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH GUESS JEANS
Installations are a must at Pitti Immagine events. Every year, inside the Fortezza da Basso, the geography of the ancient space is redesigned based on the theme of the edition. But did you know that you can have access to another installation linked to the Florentine fashion event without getting accreditation to the general event?
On January 9, an installation at Teatro del Maggio Musicale of Florence will be made available to everyone for the launch of the new Guess Jeans collection. It is also important to note that there is a shuttle service available from Fortezza da Basso. This is a fun activity that can brighten up your day, help you improve your social media presence, and give you the opportunity to make new friends.
EXHIBITION WITH CURATOR: IMPOSSIBLE TO MISS AT SALVATORE FERRAGAMO MUSEUM
To discover an exhibition accompanied by the chief curator is a privilege that can’t be missed. On January 11 at 6 pm, fashion enthusiasts and anyone interested who had made a prior reservation can access the Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960 exhibition at the museum in Palazzo Spini Feroni, located in Piazza Santa Trinita. The tour will be guided by Stefania Ricci, who is the curator and director of the museum.
The display showcases archival pieces that range widely in style and periods, with the aim of highlighting the rise of Salvatore Ferragamo to the title of “shoemaker of the stars”, as many like to remember him. To book the experience, you can contact the museum’s staff at the address provided by Pitti Immagine. And there’s more: The Walking Story is a treasure hunt that bears witness to the indissoluble bond between Ferragamo its Founder and the city of Florence through a route in significant and iconic places. Join it via QR-code on the windows of the Ferragamo boutique in Via de’ Tornabuoni 14/r from January 09 to 12 from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm.
