Italians have always had a special relationship with their clothing. As far back as the Italian Renaissance in the 14th century, fashion was used to express personal appearance, confidence, and even status and wealth. It's not just a topic of conversation for young men, but is seen in other demographic groups as well. Generally, all over the world, students take exams in comfortable clothes and often in the library. However, in Italy, exams are considered formal events open to the public, so it is expected that you present yourself decently dressed.
This is not a rule, but rather a matter of respect to show up in clean clothes that are at least business informal. It's like going to an interview - you don't need to wear a suit, but you certainly wouldn't show up wearing tracksuits. Italians have been named the most stylish dressers in Europe, with the United Kingdom coming in fourth. The Mediterranean country, home to world-famous designers and fashion houses such as Prada and Versace, topped the international survey of 14,000 adults from across Europe. In Italy, architectural structures are not only classic and timeless in style - so are people. Where does this come from? Are Italians worried about what their neighbors will think if they take out the trash or go for a walk in scruffy sweatpants instead of something more elegant? Not at all. In Italy it seems to be a way of thinking.
They dress simply but elegantly. Being home to so many iconic fashion companies undoubtedly helped Italians gain a reputation for being stylish, but it should be noted that these fashion houses were just as often an expression rather than a progenitor of Italian styles. My Italian friend explained to me how she likes to keep her house (which is always spotless) and clothes for her family. Of course, showing off is something that a lot of people associate with Italian fashion, especially when you consider the lavish displays you're likely to see at Pitti Uomo. This could be why so many international celebrities were attracted to the Italian style, and why international audiences were also surprised by the style of Italian actors. Many cultures have an elegant aesthetic, of course, and while the Italian one is famous, it's just one of the many styles that exist on the peninsula and only part of what makes the Italian style special. And when it comes to matters of style and the Dolce Vita, there's no better person to consult than an Italian.
This period of Italian fashion would prove to be extremely influential in shaping the next generation of Italian innovators. Ultimately, the exceptionalism of the Italian style cannot be attributed only to that famous Italian trust. This contrast between excess and tranquility is also exemplified by the passeggiata - a quiet walk that takes place at night to relax after a long day but also for Italians to show off their clothes and see what their neighbors are wearing. The Italian style - from my limited exposure to it on the field (some friends, some athletes, some business partners) - is characterized by individuals being more willing to let individual garments carry more of the burden of personal expression. This is a great blog that has highlighted the history of Italian men and how they have created an elegant look over the years. Meanwhile, my belt is medium plain brown and harmonizes well with my suede loafers made by Velasca - another Italian brand. Whether it's taking exams in your best Sunday outfit or deciding to wear a blouse for appetizers instead of a fun printed t-shirt - decorum is definitely part of Italian culture that you can easily see.
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