A Dummy's Guide To Dressing Italiano – From Luca Faloni to Prada and Stone Island
Lo stile Italiano non è mai stato così facile da realizzare... and here's how you can do it with a few simple tweakments to your wardrobe.
When a new season knocks on the door, it’s rude not to answer. But what’s even worse? Not being dressed for the occasion. And what better way to dress in the autumn months than Italiano? We’ve officially bid farewell to the summer and packed away our short chinos and patterned shirts, meaning it’s time to turn our attention to a more polished look – and if you ask me, the Italians do it best. When the mercury dips, it can be tempting to opt for distressed and baggy clothing, but do you think that's what they're up to in Rome or Milan? Unlikely. Quintessential Italian men’s style is instantly recognisable: perfectly fitted, expertly crafted, with a touch of sprezzatura (effortless nonchalant for those behind on their Duolingo streak).
Italian fashion is all about mastering that balance between sophistication and ease. It’s the kind of elegance you see brought to life in films like The Talented Mr. Ripley, which is, for most of us, is the defining cultural moment where we truly fell n love with the look. Communicated through Jude Law's timeless wardrobe of linen trousers, well to-do loafers and, most importantly, Italian knits, never has effortless looked so darn put together. Granted, Law's Dickie Greenleaf is aan eternal example of good summer style but these fashion principles are perennial. So, what's the formula?
Everything seems to look good on Italians, doesn’t it? It's all down to the fit. Clothing that fits like a proverbial glove is paramount, whether it’s the length of your trousers, the cut of your blazer or even the simplest of knits or t-shirts, everything should look made to measure (even if it isn’t). Buying quality fitted shirts and cashmere cardigans is a surefire way to achieve this look, and once you add in some well-fitting tailored trousers, you’re onto a winner.
This obsession with fit and quality is what defines Italy's fashion legacy. The names Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Missoni, Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna, and Tod’s will be familar - they're some of the country's greatest exports. Each and every one of these brands has mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation, maintaining their home country's status as an icon of global fashion.
If you’re not sure where to start and you’re looking for some basic pieces to kickstart your Italiano phase – look no further. We've rounded up 13 must-consider pieces to jumpstart your capsule wardrobe this season, from the who's who of Italian brands including Brunello Cucinelli, Luca Faloni and more. But don't worry, you don't have to always drop €€€ to get the look - we've included pieces that tap into those core Italian principles so you can get the look for less. It’s time to say ‘ciao’ to your new autumn uniform.
Massimo Dutti
Distressed Suede Leather Overshirt
£299.00
With its rugged texture and lived-in feel, this goatskin suede piece adds a subtle edge to the polished Italian-inspired wardrobe. Despite its relaxed appearance, the overshirt maintains the signature emphasis on fit, ensuring a slightly tailored silhouette that looks really good with over fitted turtleneck or fine knitwear.
LUCA FALONI
Zip-up 2-PLY CASHMERE
£325.00
This zip-up cashmere jumper fits like a glove and looks equal parts polished and casual. When in the office, wear with with a shirt underneath, or on a Sunday at the pub style with a a simple t-shirt underneath.
Brunello Cucinelli
Wool Prince of Wales double cloth shirt-style bomber jacket
£3800.00
Exclusive workmanship and materials elevate the casual aesthetic of this shirt collar bomber jacket, and with sporty details such as the knit trim and chest pocket - this piece is extremely versatile.
LUCA FALONI
Shawl Cardigan 4-PLY CASHMERE
£675.00
This shawl-style cardigan is fitted enough to remain in keeping with the Italiano vibe, but relaxed enough to keep you feeling comfortable and relaxed in what you're wearing.
LUCA FALONI
Classic Shirt BRUSHED COTTON
£170.00
A brushed cotton shirt is ideal for the chiller months, and this fitted number from Luca Faloni will look great with everything from smart suit trousers to chinos or jeans.
Reiss
Merino Wool Half Zip Funnel Neck Jumper
£98.00
A perfect example of timeless, refined menswear is this Reiss Merino knit. Crafted from soft, luxurious merino wool, this jumper embodies the Italian-style focus on quality and fit - but without the luxury price tag.
Tod's
City Gommino Logo-Debossed Suede Driving Shoes
£515.00
You don't have to be a regular at Pitti to appreciate the elegant simplicity of Tod's driving shoes - especially when they're as classic as this 'City Gommino' version. Crafted in Italy from smooth suede, this pair is finished with supple linings and set on the brand's signature rubber 'pebbles' - they're how this style got its name.
MR PORTER
LORO PIANA Straight-Leg Pleated Wool-Twill Suit Trousers
£990.00
If you want to look the epitome of elegance, try a Loro Piana suit. Part of a two-piece, these trousers are cut from double-layered wool-twill that's treated for water-repellency and cut with relaxed, straight legs enhanced by sharp double pleats.
Gucci
Leather Interlocking G Belt
£335.00
Obviously. But, actually, go for something less obvious, moving the logo detail to more of an accent rather than the main event. We're going for effortless, remember?
Massimo Dutti
Microtextured Cotton Plique Polo Shirt
£35.95
This polo shirt is perfect for capturing the Italian approach to dressing—fitted and refined, yet effortlessly relaxed. Whether paired with tailored trousers or layered under a lightweight jacket, it’s a stylish, understated piece for the transitional season (and a bit of a bargain).
Brunello Cucinelli
Garment-dyed leisure fit trousers in cotton corduroy
£820.00
These casual and elegant cotton corduroy leisure trousers boast of soft proportions in the seat and a slightly low waist for a more relaxed feel that can be dressed up with ease.
STONE ISLAND
Shirt Jacket with Anti-Drop
£880.00
A streamlined jacket made from a wool-nylon cloth, this modern raincoat from Stone Island will keep you looking smart whatever the weather.
PRADA
Brushed leather lace-ups
£870.00
These brushed leather lace-ups are the epitome of suave and sophisticated. In a deep brown hue and with an ultra flat sole that melds into the upper, these shoes will fast become a staple and prove to be the best investment you'll make in footwear this season.
Brunello Cucinelli
Silk and cotton lightweight jersey long sleeve polo with shirt-style collar
£690.00
This long sleeve polo is a must-have menswear piece, and thanks to cotton and silk blend, this piece boasts of lightness and a smooth sensation against the skin. Perfect for layering underneath a gilet, tank top of quarter-zip jumper – this is a versatile basic in a more luxe way.
MR PORTER
Moncler Logo-Embellished Cotton-Gabardine Baseball Cap
£215.00
A great finishing touch for both casual weekend looks or as a contrast to more tailored outfits, plus it's plastered with a logo. Well, we can't be quiet luxury all the time, can we?
MOSS
Italian Tailored Fit Light Grey Suit
£319.00
Crafted in pure wool made in northern Italy, this tailored-fit suit will revive your formal options for the season. In a light-grey colour, this suit is ideal for pairing with deep hues like burgundy or forest green for a fun contrasting look.
STONE ISLAND
Turtleneck Jumper with Ribbed Details
£370.00
A simple black turtleneck with a difference. Totally monochromatic and made from pure wool, this jumper will fit your physique beautifully while keeping you warm and looking effortlessly put together.
BOGGI
Stretch Cotton Trousers
£159.00
These garment-dyed stretch cotton gabardine trousers are in a winter-white cream hue and are oh-so-perfect for the current season. Wear with darker hues to inject some lightless and keep your appearance fresh.
BOGGI
Dove Grey Madison Cotton Blend Sweatshirt Jacket
£449.00
This grey sweatshirt jacket is equal parts smart and sophisticated as it is casual and off-duty. With a detachable gilet and hood and made from a stretch fabric, you'll feel ultimate comfort while looking sleek and smart in the boardroom.
Gucci
Web stripe-detail bomber jacket
£2795.00
A considered purchase, but one that will last a lifetime. This Gucci suede bomber jacket might seem like it has a hefty price tag, and there's no denying it, but it wouldn't half look good with a Vespa.