8 Style Rules Regular Dudes Can Learn From Menswear's Biggest Fashion Show

Image via Complex Original

Bruh, it doesn't matter if it's nearly 90 degrees outside, it's imperative to keep your layer game skrong. Don't get us wrong, this doesn't mean throwing on your wool topcoat in the middle of a dry summer heat. Instead, keep your sights on what's appropriate for the season. Yes, this is easier to pull off in the winter time; with dropping temperatures prompting guys to yank wool trousers, heavy gauge sweaters and thick-ass coats out of their closets.

But don't get it twisted, you can still do this in the summer. Unstructured blazers, linen shirting, or lightweight tech jackets are all feasible options—from casual outings to suited up situations. It's not a requirement, but these are the touches that take “a selection of clothing” and solidify it into a whole look.

Most dudes at Pitti are dressed up, but it's not like they threw on a suit and walked out the door. It's the little flourishes that really make them shine (and draw the eyes of street style photographers). It doesn't even have to be as bland as “Menswear 101” accessories like a pocket square or patterned tie. A smart choice of sunglasses; gloves tucked carelessly in a jacket pocket; or a wide-brimmed hat add punches of character to any kind of look that you have lined up. A note of caution though, try these details at home first—you don't want to come out looking like you just threw on everything in your closet.

Without question, Pitti Uomo is known for it's suiting. From double-breasted, to double monks, the event is littered with dudes who embody the term “sprezzatura.” Heading to Pitti is an education in proper suiting, and a reminder that it does pay to go with the flow. We all have experiences where you've arrived underdressed, and aside from simply looking out of place, it sends the wrong message about your character—even if you've spent hours beforehand prepping your kit. Don't get caught looking like you're unaware, it's always a good look to do some recon and plan out your clothing in advance.

Yes, Pitti is about the suits. But there are plenty of dudes who couldn't care less—giving the finger to convention and dressing their own way. Are they less formal than a dude double-breasted suit? Maybe. But they're certainly just as stylish (if not moreso). We do think it's wise to see what the crowd is doing, but that should also give you enough information to know if you can bend the rules. In the case of something like Pitti, with everyone suited up, you'll standout simply rocking a pair of trousers and a T-shirt. This doesn't mean you should roll through in baggy denim and a faded tee, but it does mean that with a smart pair of dark pants, and clean white T-shirt, you'll look sharp and separate yourself from the mindless, sprezzed-out masses.

It doesn't matter how tailored your garments are if your hairstyle isn't. This isn't to say that you need to drop an excessive amount at the barber shop, but you should be as close with your barber as you are with any professional acquaintance. Not only does this mean that you're getting a quality haircut every time, but you're getting styled by someone who actually knows what you're looking for before your butt hits the chair.

You know that awkward exchange the moment you sit down with a new barber? You're trying your best to articulate exactly what you're trying to achieve—usually resulting in a mediocre haircut. A barber with whom you have a great relationship will know exactly what to do with your head of hair specifically—which is incredible if your hair is particularly stubborn, or you want a very distinct style. All that said, every guy looks better when they've had their head of hair cleaned up. No matter how dressed up you are, never underestimate the value of a great haircut.

Remember we were talking about layering up? Well, there's nothing that works better than a denim jacket. “That's too casual,” you cry in reply. Think again. If done in a clean dark indigo, or solid lightwash, a denim jacket could take a casual outfit, and transform it into a look that's equal parts unassuming, and thoughtfully put together. Considering most guys put stock into their more casual gear (and generally don't need to have a lot of suiting separates), a denim jacket is a sharp investment—and one that doesn't necessarily hinge on the brand you buy.

Most of us are within range of a brick-and-mortar store that stocks Levi's, with the rest well-connected enough to cop a jacket online. Go for something simple, understated, and within your price range, and wear it until it literally wears itself out. We're not suggesting that this is going to be a replacement for the times when you really need to wear a blazer, but the gawd Ralph Lauren has spent decades showing us the way denim jackets are done.

There are plenty of great sock brands that are producing far more than your average pair of white tube socks. While those certainly have their place in every guy's wardrobe, there's something inherently comfortable in going sockless. It's the obvious choice when the weather calls for it and, if we're honest, certain sneakers and hard-bottoms simply look better without socks. If the idea of going sock-free seems too daunting, then try no-show socks. It's the same visual effect—without the worry that you're ruining your insoles with sweaty feet.

Ask any group of guys today, and your sure to come across several who refuse to buy and wear a watch. “I have a phone, I don't need one,” is probably the most common excuse. Well, that's true, cell phones have made timekeeping as easy as looking at your lock screen. However, that doesn't help you much if your phone is dead, or you've forgotten to take it with you.

“They're too expensive,” says another detractor. Well, considering that you really don't need to spend more than $100-$200 on a solid, reliable watch, then there's no need to freak out. Sure it's more expensive than a new T-shirt, but the last you'll get out of the product far outweighs the initial cost.