In 1952 after the first fashion show held at Palazzo Pitti in Florence there were many names believed to have had a significant role in the design of the Italian suit, as we know it today. Some remarkable mentions are Ermenegildo Zegna, Nazareno Fonticoli (founder of Brioni) and Armani.

Regardless of the particular tailor or designer, there’s a common element that led to the Italian suit, Italians. Italians were not comfortable in the stiff and structured British cut. A suit that is too heavy to be worn comfortably in warmer weather. The concern was more with looking “clean.” Fits that are exacting and slim.This means no wrinkles or excess fabric.

There are several details that set an Italian suit apart. The one that really sets it apart is the weight or “lightness”. The garment, in fact, looks light, feels light, and wears light. It fits tight and close to the body. The canvas lining is also very light. The jacket is considerably less structured compared to American and British suit stylings, and as a result the cloth follows the wearers natural curves. The front of the jacket shows a pronounced V-shape, tight at the waist.

The sleek silhouette set by the jacket is a constant also in the pants, thus giving a smooth look from head to toes. The pants with a tapered waist, which fit tight to the hips. In the most traditional design, pants would end with a break. Nowadays, no-break type of pants is also common in Italian style.

When it comes to the Italian suit the concern is more about individual style and relaxing on the idea of correctness. To stand out is the whole point!

At UWM Mens Shop we are excited to have Italian suits from Givocci, Kiton, Isaia, Brioni, Ermenegildo Zegna and Canali.