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I don’t know if you have ever been to Buenos Aires, which is a very elegant city with wide avenues and French architecture. The locals all dress very stylish. The fact that 60% of the residence are of Italian decent may have something to do with the way they dress.
I'm an Italian who lives in Italy, I can't define myself as stylish, but I like to dress as well as possible everyday and I almost entirely agree with the argument about "fare bella figura". However, at least for me, the matter is a bit more complex. For me, "fare bella figura" is more a matter of respect for who will see me, for who will meet me, for the people I will have to deal with, and not a personal matter to actually make a good impression with strangers. It is a matter of respect for others. I would feel a profound discomfort, for example, going shopping in slippers and tracksuit, or going out with friends wearing I don't know... shorts.
penso che non siamo noi a vestirci bene, sono gli altri che si vestono peggio (pensa al tipico tedesco con calzini bianchi e infradito🤣). senza contare che l'italiano non esiste, ogni regione è una nazione a sua volta!
@@Frank00 ok: Italy is a federation of hundreds different ancient populations with different dialects, culture and ethnic background. Saying italian is like saying brazilian or canadian or american. We are not homogenous. If a sicilian speaks in his language to a venetian they would not understand eachothers
@@autarchyan5426 you are obviously not Italian because if you were you’d know that we actually make these distinctions especially when we meet one another. We are Italian but proud of where we come from in Italy and regions. We are proud of our dialects as well. But make no mistake when we run into a white guy that try’s to tell us what we are we leave that all aside and tell guys like you to go take a hike.
I accidentally found myself in Florence, Italy during fashion week and you have no idea. Even the old men dress like the cover of GQ magazine. There was a kid working at McDonald's. He had down syndrome and he was dressed better than 99% of Americans.
Spot on, it's eye opening isn't it, even the police dress like Majors in the Army, after leaving Italy I thought why don't our men and women look so beautiful, I truly did 😉
As Italian woman i can tell you that i am not obsessed with fashion but we think about every single thing we dress up. We start with our children since they were born. Every single cloth must be appropriate to a situation and the colours must be well mixed...we have a way to dress up for every single situation but we use to do this like a natural thing.. in the years i believed that is not normal as i used to think because people in the world always tells us that we are elegant but this is a normal thing for us
Italian man who's lived in Italy until his mid-20s before moving to central Europe here. While some aspects discussed may be a bit idealized and brought to the extreme, I think in general it was a good video where good points were raised, from tradition to attention to quality and family "pressure" and most importantly the "fare bella figura" part. It may sound absurd to many around the world, but back in Italy it was the norm to dress appropriately even just to go to grocery shopping or to pick the newspaper (it doesn't mean wearing suits or fancy stuff, but still you don't want to look sloppy). While I've never been a fashionista or a particularly stylish person by any means down there, but now I regularly find myself being among the best dressed in the office or group - it's not like I'm doing anything spectacular, but just the basics of what would be expected in Italy seems to do the trick.
I'm around high school teens all day. It floors me on what they wear. Most of the time, it is baggy sweats, fleece pajama bottoms, Crocs with socks, hoodies, etc. When I ask them why the don't dress better, the response is, "this is comfortable." They are all about the ease and comfort; not what time of image they are portraying to the world. I attribute this to the fact that they most often have have had everything provided to them without requiring any effort on their part. Without hesitation, they will come back a couple of years after they graduate and are out in the 'real world' and complain how they can't catch a break - and they don't know how to use their appearance to help "sell" the package. Learn now or learn later at a cost. Choices have consequences. This is the 'unwritten' mission I've taken up; help them learn these life lessons. This channel is a great resource. Thanks.
As a Gen-Z, I agree. There’s no effort to look good. Which is why I’m a proud Italian-American, so I know how to look good, thanks to my family and culture.
The real world is vain, narcissistic, and fetishised human labour. I'm so glad the recent gen has the self respect to know that not everyone is worth impressing.
Here are a few mistakes you made. People do not go for comfort out of laziness. It's out of practicality and common sense based on how they can do what they need to get done, it is a form of intelligence. And then, forget the idea that "dressing better", is not one set definition; even if these kids decide to dress "better", why should they listen to you? Last one, your opinion does not matter.
Great video. Im first generation American. My family is from Sicily. My grandfather was a barber and he wore a suit to work every day. My dad was very stylish too. He loved his shoes. They had simple means. They took care of their clothes and shoes. They didn’t have quantity but definitely quality. Of course it wore off on me. I get compliments every day on my look. Im 54 and i love it. I still look at pics of them in suits w shirts and french cuffs.They always looked proper. I enjoy your videos and i get lots of ideas . Thank you. Sal
Antonio, I have followed your channel for several years. This is one of your top 10 videos. It has -subject -content, including: - history (backstory) -rationale behind the imagery -reality vs perception -context, especially the culture of the people around you -the slower pace, which significantly improves the value of these videos. The pace allows the viewers to spend a few more seconds absorbing the information If I was using my computer instead, this would be longer. A final Italian phrase is appropriate in conclusion… BRAVO!!
Awesome Video! This brought back great memories of my visits to Italy. Probably my favorite country. I wondered into Peruzzi in Florence and was greeted by an extremely well dressed gentleman who obviously pegged me for an American and asked if he could help me. I just said I would like to look around and he asked if I would follow him. He brought me over to a rack, pulled out a beautiful, light weight jacket and helped me put it on. He turned me and made some adjustments then guided me to a full length mirror. Wow, just wow was all I could think. He nailed the style and fit without having a conversation with me. The feel and quality was amazing. I had no intention of buying a leather jacket in the hot summer months but I simply could not pass that up. This was back in the early 90s and I remember that great experience like it was yesterday. Those experiences are very rare for me.
Im an Australian lady who just came back from a holiday with my daughter and we noticed the men and women have so much style, you should be so proud of yourselves, you wear the best leather, amazing textures, etcetc I could go on, its just like it's in your DNA. Not to mention your natural beauty x
I am; you are, we are Australian . 🦘 🦘🇦🇺 I do feel eyes on me when I’m out and about (and I’m older than 40!); because (as you know), we have a very mixed bag when it comes to mens dress sense here . That said; I’ve noticed my colleagues picking up their game a little .
I live only an hour from Milan so I visit there from time to time for fashion inspiration. What I love most about Milanese is that the clothes don't wear them. They look very comfortable in their clothes. Americans lost in touch with wearing fine clothing for a couple of decades, so now they look as if the clothes wear them not the other way round.
Success is not built on success. It's built on failure, It's built on fraustration. it's built on fear that you have to overcome. I pray that anyone who reads this will be successful in life
As an Italian American I do find myself being compelled to try and be more stylish than I ought to be. Meaning I have no reason to be stylish due to my lifestyle and job, but I can’t seem to help myself. Also, I love these history videos, keep them coming!
Your videos over the last year have gotten progressively more interesting. This is a deep topic because it's ultimately about culture and all the underlying values embodied in the clothes we wear. Ultimately I believe the main factor is the Catholic/Protestant divide. Catholic cultures are comfortable with hierarchy, status signaling, ostentation (this isn't a Catholic teaching but somehow the church has encouraged it) and a deeper sense of communal responsibility, at least in regards to appearance. Protestant culture as imported to America via the Puritans is all about: flattening hierarchy, removing authority figures, equality and primacy of the individual over the group, freedom to make your own choices regardless of what others think about it, and an aversion to showiness (there's always the idea that it's just masking emptiness). Again, this isn't really Protestant religious teaching but it's the cultural fruit of the Protestant mindset.
9:34 True (am NY 🇮🇹). In college my best friend from Galicia and I would always dress well and get complimented where most guys would go out in shorts and t-shirts. I wouldn't be caught dead in less than a layered button down.
Men with an Italian background do seem to be more concerned with their appearance so yes ... perhaps stressed more in the family .. people are often quickly judged by their looks.
Paying attention to how you look commands respect, and people indeed treat you differently. Merely putting a sport jacket on, I am treated a bit nicer and get looks. It’s simple, and effective.
Like Antonio said small details is the key and it really does matter...For eg. I've been always concious about my sleeve length of every piece that I wear on my torso so my every piece of clothing goes to my tailor 1st.
This presentation was well researched and dense in information about the background of Italian style, all in 24 minutes. Well done, I would like to see more videos like these.
Hey, I grew up in a trailer park in West Texas also, I live in Colorado now and I'm trying to keep up with my suit style as a 45 year old punker, it's kind all about style for different occasions, I love this channel keep making videos.😊
I'm Italian and I can 100% attest that we are not always stylish by a long shot. Sure, many upper-middle and professional class men are going to be elegant, but we regular Joes aren't any more stylish than any other nationality, just come to Italy - the real places, not tourist destinations - and see for yourselves. Also, there is no notion of "sprezzatura" in Italy, I've only ever heard this term used by Americans.
Sprezzatura is not only in Italian fashion but in art, music and other culture and it's fantastic. Japanese have a similar concept, particularly when it comes to their tea ceremonies. I loved this video!!
sprezzatura you see nowadays looks like it took 4 hours and they spend at least half of that time adjusting their overcoat that they don’t wear fully but more like a cape so it looks just perfectly sloppy enough
Following up on your comment about Italian women dressing to show off what they love about themselves: Growing up, I was always the skinny, nerdy-looking kid. For years, I tried to dress in a way to *deemphasize* those two traits. However, there was an article that absolutely changed my perspective … written by the owners of the Plenty of Fish dating website. The guys who own Plenty of Fish are math geeks who love crunching numbers (and their dating site provides them with tons of numbers to work with). They were surprised to realize that being ugly was almost as beneficial as being beautiful, and *both* were *better* than being somewhat attractive. Put another way, if you have some feature that some people will love and others will hate, *flaunt* it. (They pointed out that people who have tattoos and piercings seem to inherently understand this.) Based upon past experience, all of my girlfriends were attracted to thin and/or nerdy-looking guys. Therefore, instead of trying to compensate for those two traits, I really should *double down* on them. I'm now wearing glasses with heavier frames, tweed sports coats, and clothes that emphasize how thin I am. My wife loves it. On a separate topic: I like the concept of what sprezzatura is *supposed to* be, but not the way that it's actually implemented in the real world. There are many areas where I am good (e.g. dancing). My ease in those situations belies the time I spent mastering the skills to get to my level (and I'll spend the rest of my life trying to get even better). But I don't spend hours getting prepared for a night of dancing in order to "deliberately make some casual mistakes" when I hit the dance floor. For a social dance, I'll hit the dance floor with *no* rehearsal, then rely upon my skill and training to make it appear that I knew every move in advance … when I'm really making it up on the fly. In my opinion, sprezzatura *should be* the ability to throw together an outfit in minutes that looks like that I spent an hour or more getting ready … not the ability to spend hours to assemble an outfit that looks like I threw it together at the last minute.
That's an interesting theory in fact. Embracing the extreme end of your personal style is rather polarizing and a lot of people will "hate" it, but if you bump into someone that loves that style, it basically translates to a surefire opportunity. I think it's something talked about in a more recent video (posted way after your comment). Your story is kinda similar to mine, but instead of leaning into my thinner features, I went for a sort of "dark academia" look, at least in the cold season. It felt kinda strange at first, but after getting accustomed to it and pushing the envelope further (i.e. adding a knit tie at my own willing), it paid off. Some people looked rather disoriented, but the one that was fascinated by it, well... she made sure that I would notice it. And it's something that happens to me very rarely. And yep, I'm Italian, from the north. I prefer a more somber British style but anyway 😅
The best rule for accessories id est pocket square, watch, bracelet, tie pin, tie bar, rings, cufflinks, collar bars, lapel pins etc. is to do the bare minimum and when you think it's just enough, remove one.
I love that you point the thrifting from family. I'm Greek and I do this at least once a year just to upgrade my wardrobe with clothes of my father,grandfather,uncle
I think relatively consistent weather helps. It's a lot more expensive here in Poland. You have cold winters, windy and rainy late autumn/early spring. Warm spring and early autumn, and very hot summer. I need to have at least 4-5 types of jacket just for seasons. Same with the shoes. Of course the style is out there and I must admit that Italians are naturally stylish. The fact that they appreciate local/national shoemakers or tailors is amazing and very beneficial
when it comes to dressing appropriately to the occasion, things have changed a lot in italy in the last 20 or so years. my aunts funeral: the only guy in a suit and tie was me. my dad's 90 birthday: everyone but me seemed not to even onsider how to dress out of respect.. when i was i my teens, this was very different
Based on what little I know about the widespread cultural phenomena of La Bella Figura, I strongly suspect all, or nearly all, the un-stylish people on Italian streets are, in fact, tourists. Italians have a thing for always look and act their very best --even in their own homes doing nothing. However, if you ever decide to research the concept of La Bella Figura, I would LOVE to watch such a video! You are very good at doing your research, and this is something I very much want to learn more about. I have a book called Italian Style by Olivia Reed that is pretty good. But it's also very directed at women, not men. I also suspect that it may be related to what Baldasar Castiglione called 'Grace' in his etiquette book 'The Courtier'. Both are very good books, but it doesn't fully explain the concept. And in the rest of the west we just don't have this concept. But it might just be a very good thing to have. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it interests you enough to take on this challenge.
Nicely done. From The Book of the Courtier - messer Cesare Gonzaga said: " …if a gentleman is of worth in other things, his attire will never enhance or lessen his reputation.”
Yes family has a big influence on how you should dress and quality,leather upper/sole for shoes,Wool,Silk,Cotton, Linen for clothing, growing up you see your grandparents, uncles and Father dressing in a certain way and you follow it these are matters tha are discuss among family/friends , it's a cultural thing, (Fare una bella figura e' molto importante nella cultura italiana) just like i have been drinking a glass of wine at lunch/dinner since when i was 12(i'm 54 now still do it), wine it's part of the meal just like extra virgin olive oil, oregano, balsamic vinegar,cappuccino , espresso, grappa , limoncello etc ,etc, everyday.👏Bravo Antonio
I find how you carry yourself in ANY clothing, is how good you look wearing it. Someone who rarely wears a suit or even smart casual wear, often looks stiff and uncomfortable when wearing a jacket and collar. Someone who wears a jacket and collar every day, because they have to, often looks sloppy as they don't care about the clothes with them being no different to them than a polyester MacDonalds uniform. Someone who LIKES to dress well, puts together various looks and plans based on where they will be, often looks better, comfortable and relaxed but not sloppy. It's the same with attitude, there's the stuck up, the I don't care and the comfortable in my own skin. Own who you are, own what you wear, own how you smell. Others will naturally gravitate to your more open, welcoming, confidence. I didn't do it for you, I didn't do it for my boss, it's just how I like to be and I'm good with that.
Agnelli got a sweaty wrist so he put his watch over the sleeve...rational as hankerchief then to go loose moving over time. Peacocking effect also, yet subtle. 👏👏👏👏
Thank you for this video. What comes to mind as an American is the thought that we see and imagine Italian men as not part of the British/American/trad/preppy genre that is prevelent here. They are not of that sort. They have their own clothing history with their own fabric mills and bespoke makers.
Tip for Antonio: let the text slides a bit longer in the image. This gives the people who don't speak English daily more time to read. Greetings from Belgium 🇧🇪
I’m not even close to being Italian (Scottish actually) but I do see that they understand fashion. Would I wear anything from the runway….nope, not a chance. That flashy stuff is for show, haughty designers egos and the pages of GQ. What I did learn was how to put complimentary pieces together that fit well and are tailored to the nines. Italians seem to have that nailed, like it’s a national pastime or something. Its also personal pride in appearance. We can all learn a lot from them.
Italian culture in general is obsessed with beauty, aesthetics. The country also has huge artistic heritage, beautiful paintings, sculptures, monuments, ruins, historic buildings, churches, palazzi. In addition to nature, the Alps, islands, picturesque countryside, all this legacy of beauty influences the mindsets
Hi Antonio. I have really enjoyed a lot of your videos over the years. My best friend is 72 years old and she still dresses her Butt of and gets compliments on the way she dresses all the time from people of all ages. We go out dancing almost every weekend. We go out shopping all the time. I try to dress to complement her style. She has never tried to make me up my game in dressing. I wanted to do that myself. In fact she only dresses me when we go out to formal affairs. She likes for me to dress real nice to compliment the gown she is wearing for that affair. She knows way more about fashion than I do. She has been like that all of her life. Me on the other hand, I consider myself as a little on the basic Bob type but, I do like to look good when I go out with her and by myself. My one big question for you is this : can a 69 year old man wear suede and velvet, looking shoes in the summertime in spring. She seems to think so, and for what ever reason I disagree whit her because most of the men around me don’t dress like that. I have, at one time in my life had 350 pairs of shoes until my home burnt down in 2010. I do have an extensive wardrobe and many more shoes again but, I am not as stylish as she is and I am a little uncomfortable trying to wear suede in the Spring and Summer like she wants me to at times. Is she right or do I have a little more to learn in that department? Please get back to me on this issue. I would appreciate it very much. One last thing. I think I do alright when I dress myself. I just don’t get as many compliments as she gets nor do I need those compliments because I am very comfortable with myself but, For when it comes to wearing suede shoes and velvet, looking shoes in the spring in summer time. That is an entirely different subject for me to deal with. Please help me with this issue. I do wish you continued success with all of your videos and endeavors in fashion and I also wish you continued success financially as well. Have a wonderful day and weekend. I hope to hear from you in the very near future.
Some great points in this Antonio! I have to wear Hi Vis at work , so even when I go to the supermarket , I dress smart casual...always makes me feel better ! All my dress/good clothes are sent to my tailor to get the right fit , makes a huge difference . I've had friends say I should go to Italy , as I'd fit in and apparently the ladies like a more mature man ??🙂 Thanks for another interesting video sir. Gregg.
Italian men have a few simple tricks to always look great, they wear: leather shoes, not flip-flops or running shoes, a nice collared shirt, and often, a tie. This look is a chick-magnet, men.
I love your channel, and I’m not even a man! There are no female fashion channels that talk about quality, just flash! Italian here, by the way. My grandmother always said even if you have no money you have to dress well, haha
All-around a great style video and appreciate you highlighting the various artworks like Royers painting of Vercingetorix throwing down his arms to Caesar.
I am Italian-American. My grandparents were poor, but they always dressed well, kept their apartment well, ate well. Dressing well was a matter of respect for the dignity of others and respect for their own a dignity. It was not to put on a show for others, it was just the way they approached the world. They used their meager resources to live a dignified life, and dressing well was part of that. I am profoundly grateful for their example.
I always was impressed by the Italian women and their elegant style. Many men are pretty stylish as well but I noticed that the whole Italians are stylish is gently fading away. I live near the Italian border and go there many times a year and it gets worse every year.
Well, Etruscans are among the most ancient, strongest and biggest culture in Italy’s history. And one those you can find only in Italy. But I’m not so sure about the “Italian-style area”. Italy is a tiny country, and that area is in strong relationships with next ones. Also, Genoa, Turin, Venice, Milan, Naples, Sicily with others out of Etruria gave a lot to what today you can call “Italian-style”.
I have a great collection of items including neckties. One late afternoon, I was walking through Swansea Market. I had earlier been to a customer meeting and was suited up. From the nearby fishmonger's stall, I heard a loud shout, directed at me. "Been to court?" 🤣 That is the difference between Milan and Swansea.
As an Italian American, dressing with style is in our DNA. I remember my late Italian father, who always dressed sharp and inspired me to dress well. He was a young man during the Great Depression. Every time I was well dressed, I would ask him how I looked. He would say sharp as a razor! His approval meant everything to me. Now I dress in his honor! To Italians, dressing very casual, as most Americans do today, is considered shameful and poor taste.
@@filippomonaco2303 WOW but in order to sell style you have to sell fashion, that’s it. Or everything else about design and culture and beauty you’re going to find in Milan.
@@giovannimoriggi5833 not really, if you're selling Oxfords and not sneakers you're selling classic style shoes and not fashion shoes. There are lot of things about culture and beauty not found in Milan 😂😂 Milan is the capital of fashion in Italy, not the capital of culture or beauty 😂😂
@@filippomonaco2303 first of all, classic shoes survive because fashions as well. Then, classic items and style are not the same thing. In Milan you find sneakers and classic and something just invented. That’s style: being consistent with everything, not only in classic. And when a say everything I talk about invent, design, product, show, manage, sell and live fashion. Nobody says Milan is the capital of beauty, and neither capital of style, and of course there’s no capital of beauty in the planet. Your style of making fun of facts is an easy way to make you feel comfortable while you sound immature with your too easy comparisons. Nobody can claim a very city of style, anyway you can’t claim there’s not enough style in Milan. I’m pretty sure in Oxford they love sneakers as well.
@@giovannimoriggi5833 when did I say that in Oxford they don't like sneakers? Just to let you know: Oxford is the name of a classic shoe 🤦🏼♂️ And second classic shoes do not survive because of fashion. If fashion wasn't a thing there would still be people wanting and buying classic shoes and so classic shoes would survive nonetheless.
😇Italian American, Saint Frances-Xavier Cabrini stated that Italians are stylish because they are used to being around beautiful things; they created the best painting, statues, music, poetry, literature etc. I believe her.
Yes, italians are obsessed with beauty, aesthetics. The country has huge artistic heritage, beautiful paintings, sculptures, monuments, ruins, historic buildings, churches, palazzi. In addition to natural beauty, the Alps, islands, picturesque countryside, all this legacy.
Been living in Italy for the last 3 months and they are really effortlessly stylish. The worse part for me is that women are used to the men being so stylish that if you're not dressed to par they just ignore you. Dressing up here is a rule on a daily basis. I need a wadrobe overhaul
@@solimenea that's terrible advice. Don't spend money on women. In fact don't even think about them. Spend on yourself and improving yourself. The women will come to u by themselves.
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Are Italians the most stylish men in the world? Comment below!
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I don’t know if you have ever been to Buenos Aires, which is a very elegant city with wide avenues and French architecture. The locals all dress very stylish. The fact that 60% of the residence are of Italian decent may have something to do with the way they dress.
I'm an Italian who lives in Italy, I can't define myself as stylish, but I like to dress as well as possible everyday and I almost entirely agree with the argument about "fare bella figura". However, at least for me, the matter is a bit more complex. For me, "fare bella figura" is more a matter of respect for who will see me, for who will meet me, for the people I will have to deal with, and not a personal matter to actually make a good impression with strangers. It is a matter of respect for others. I would feel a profound discomfort, for example, going shopping in slippers and tracksuit, or going out with friends wearing I don't know... shorts.
This 👍
penso che non siamo noi a vestirci bene, sono gli altri che si vestono peggio (pensa al tipico tedesco con calzini bianchi e infradito🤣). senza contare che l'italiano non esiste, ogni regione è una nazione a sua volta!
@@autarchyan5426 explain how Italian don’t exist
@@Frank00 ok: Italy is a federation of hundreds different ancient populations with different dialects, culture and ethnic background. Saying italian is like saying brazilian or canadian or american. We are not homogenous. If a sicilian speaks in his language to a venetian they would not understand eachothers
@@autarchyan5426 you are obviously not Italian because if you were you’d know that we actually make these distinctions especially when we meet one another. We are Italian but proud of where we come from in Italy and regions. We are proud of our dialects as well. But make no mistake when we run into a white guy that try’s to tell us what we are we leave that all aside and tell guys like you to go take a hike.
Italians - beautiful people surrounded by beautiful nature create beautiful things!
I accidentally found myself in Florence, Italy during fashion week and you have no idea. Even the old men dress like the cover of GQ magazine. There was a kid working at McDonald's. He had down syndrome and he was dressed better than 99% of Americans.
Stylish at work in McDonald’s. That’s dedication. Working in fast food makes clothing smell
Fantastic ❤
Here in America, we're dressed like flood victims 💀💀💀
You went to McDonald's while in Italy?
Spot on, it's eye opening isn't it, even the police dress like Majors in the Army, after leaving Italy I thought why don't our men and women look so beautiful, I truly did 😉
As Italian woman i can tell you that i am not obsessed with fashion but we think about every single thing we dress up. We start with our children since they were born. Every single cloth must be appropriate to a situation and the colours must be well mixed...we have a way to dress up for every single situation but we use to do this like a natural thing.. in the years i believed that is not normal as i used to think because people in the world always tells us that we are elegant but this is a normal thing for us
Beautifully said
In America, it can depend on where you live, or your social circle, but for the most part we wear whatever the fuck
Italian man who's lived in Italy until his mid-20s before moving to central Europe here.
While some aspects discussed may be a bit idealized and brought to the extreme, I think in general it was a good video where good points were raised, from tradition to attention to quality and family "pressure" and most importantly the "fare bella figura" part. It may sound absurd to many around the world, but back in Italy it was the norm to dress appropriately even just to go to grocery shopping or to pick the newspaper (it doesn't mean wearing suits or fancy stuff, but still you don't want to look sloppy). While I've never been a fashionista or a particularly stylish person by any means down there, but now I regularly find myself being among the best dressed in the office or group - it's not like I'm doing anything spectacular, but just the basics of what would be expected in Italy seems to do the trick.
I'm around high school teens all day. It floors me on what they wear. Most of the time, it is baggy sweats, fleece pajama bottoms, Crocs with socks, hoodies, etc. When I ask them why the don't dress better, the response is, "this is comfortable." They are all about the ease and comfort; not what time of image they are portraying to the world. I attribute this to the fact that they most often have have had everything provided to them without requiring any effort on their part. Without hesitation, they will come back a couple of years after they graduate and are out in the 'real world' and complain how they can't catch a break - and they don't know how to use their appearance to help "sell" the package. Learn now or learn later at a cost. Choices have consequences. This is the 'unwritten' mission I've taken up; help them learn these life lessons. This channel is a great resource. Thanks.
As a Gen-Z, I agree. There’s no effort to look good. Which is why I’m a proud Italian-American, so I know how to look good, thanks to my family and culture.
The "comfort" answer is also a stupid one, there are no pants more comfortable than a pair of well fitted dress trousers.
@@filippomonaco2303 I completely agree, mate.
The real world is vain, narcissistic, and fetishised human labour. I'm so glad the recent gen has the self respect to know that not everyone is worth impressing.
Here are a few mistakes you made. People do not go for comfort out of laziness. It's out of practicality and common sense based on how they can do what they need to get done, it is a form of intelligence. And then, forget the idea that "dressing better", is not one set definition; even if these kids decide to dress "better", why should they listen to you? Last one, your opinion does not matter.
Great video. Im first generation American. My family is from Sicily. My grandfather was a barber and he wore a suit to work every day. My dad was very stylish too. He loved his shoes. They had simple means. They took care of their clothes and shoes. They didn’t have quantity but definitely quality. Of course it wore off on me. I get compliments every day on my look. Im 54 and i love it. I still look at pics of them in suits w shirts and french cuffs.They always looked proper. I enjoy your videos and i get lots of ideas . Thank you.
Sal
Yes, my Italian dad knew how to dress
Antonio,
I have followed your channel for several years.
This is one of your top 10 videos. It has
-subject
-content, including:
- history (backstory)
-rationale behind the imagery
-reality vs perception
-context, especially the culture of the people around you
-the slower pace, which significantly improves the value of these videos. The pace allows the viewers to spend a few more seconds absorbing the information
If I was using my computer instead, this would be longer.
A final Italian phrase is appropriate in conclusion…
BRAVO!!
Need a video on English/British Irish Men’s style.
One of Antonio's best videos. Man, this guy works hard! First rate. Respect. Thank you!
Brother, I'm Portuguese, and I discovered your channel, and your tips helped me improve in several aspects! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Awesome Video! This brought back great memories of my visits to Italy. Probably my favorite country. I wondered into Peruzzi in Florence and was greeted by an extremely well dressed gentleman who obviously pegged me for an American and asked if he could help me. I just said I would like to look around and he asked if I would follow him. He brought me over to a rack, pulled out a beautiful, light weight jacket and helped me put it on. He turned me and made some adjustments then guided me to a full length mirror. Wow, just wow was all I could think. He nailed the style and fit without having a conversation with me. The feel and quality was amazing. I had no intention of buying a leather jacket in the hot summer months but I simply could not pass that up. This was back in the early 90s and I remember that great experience like it was yesterday. Those experiences are very rare for me.
Sprezzatura! A word worth learning if you love style.
I'm Italian and i go to buy clothes maybe once a year, my relatives just give me all their old cool stuff
Im an Australian lady who just came back from a holiday with my daughter and we noticed the men and women have so much style, you should be so proud of yourselves, you wear the best leather, amazing textures, etcetc I could go on, its just like it's in your DNA. Not to mention your natural beauty x
I am; you are, we are Australian . 🦘 🦘🇦🇺
I do feel eyes on me when I’m out and about (and I’m older than 40!); because (as you know), we have a very mixed bag when it comes to mens dress sense here .
That said; I’ve noticed my colleagues picking up their game a little .
@@bodhi9464 It's about time, I think we have been influenced by American culture, ♥️
I live only an hour from Milan so I visit there from time to time for fashion inspiration. What I love most about Milanese is that the clothes don't wear them. They look very comfortable in their clothes. Americans lost in touch with wearing fine clothing for a couple of decades, so now they look as if the clothes wear them not the other way round.
Success is not built on success. It's built on failure, It's built on fraustration. it's built on fear that you have to overcome. I pray that anyone who reads this will be successful in life
O' Yes I'm a living testimony of Mrs Victoria Alejandro.!
Victoria has changed my financial status for the best.!
All thanks to my aunty who introduced her to me.!
A friend that I referred to her just received €61,050 profit after 6days of investing..... I became jealous.. Lol.
My first experience with her gave me the assurance that has made me to invest without fear of loosing.
As an Italian American I do find myself being compelled to try and be more stylish than I ought to be. Meaning I have no reason to be stylish due to my lifestyle and job, but I can’t seem to help myself. Also, I love these history videos, keep them coming!
One of your best videos Antonio! As part of my Italian heritage I have been waiting for a great video on Italian style and you delivered! Awesome!
Found this video interesting as an Italian American. Great content as always
Awesome, thank you!
Ok. I'm officially binge watching your content! Can't stop. I really value this information and your delivery style
Your videos over the last year have gotten progressively more interesting. This is a deep topic because it's ultimately about culture and all the underlying values embodied in the clothes we wear. Ultimately I believe the main factor is the Catholic/Protestant divide. Catholic cultures are comfortable with hierarchy, status signaling, ostentation (this isn't a Catholic teaching but somehow the church has encouraged it) and a deeper sense of communal responsibility, at least in regards to appearance.
Protestant culture as imported to America via the Puritans is all about: flattening hierarchy, removing authority figures, equality and primacy of the individual over the group, freedom to make your own choices regardless of what others think about it, and an aversion to showiness (there's always the idea that it's just masking emptiness). Again, this isn't really Protestant religious teaching but it's the cultural fruit of the Protestant mindset.
Excellent point.
As I am 100% Italian-American with relatives still in Italy, I truly enjoyed and appreciated this video. Thanks for doing it.
A Texan Marine ! i knew there was a reason i connected with your content so easily.
9:34
True (am NY 🇮🇹). In college my best friend from Galicia and I would always dress well and get complimented where most guys would go out in shorts and t-shirts. I wouldn't be caught dead in less than a layered button down.
Men with an Italian background do seem to be more concerned with their appearance so yes ... perhaps stressed more in the family .. people are often quickly judged by their looks.
Paying attention to how you look commands respect, and people indeed treat you differently. Merely putting a sport jacket on, I am treated a bit nicer and get looks. It’s simple, and effective.
Like Antonio said small details is the key and it really does matter...For eg. I've been always concious about my sleeve length of every piece that I wear on my torso so my every piece of clothing goes to my tailor 1st.
This presentation was well researched and dense in information about the background of Italian style, all in 24 minutes. Well done, I would like to see more videos like these.
Hey, I grew up in a trailer park in West Texas also, I live in Colorado now and I'm trying to keep up with my suit style as a 45 year old punker, it's kind all about style for different occasions, I love this channel keep making videos.😊
I'm Italian and I can 100% attest that we are not always stylish by a long shot. Sure, many upper-middle and professional class men are going to be elegant, but we regular Joes aren't any more stylish than any other nationality, just come to Italy - the real places, not tourist destinations - and see for yourselves. Also, there is no notion of "sprezzatura" in Italy, I've only ever heard this term used by Americans.
All your words are true indeed. Thanks for a ton of information in such a small video. I really appreciate it.
Glad it was helpful!
Sprezzatura is not only in Italian fashion but in art, music and other culture and it's fantastic. Japanese have a similar concept, particularly when it comes to their tea ceremonies. I loved this video!!
sprezzatura you see nowadays looks like it took 4 hours and they spend at least half of that time adjusting their overcoat that they don’t wear fully but more like a cape so it looks just perfectly sloppy enough
I can relate to this description of the Italian style. This is accurate. Keep up the good work gentleman!
Wow, absolutely fascinating. Superbly presented and well researched
Following up on your comment about Italian women dressing to show off what they love about themselves:
Growing up, I was always the skinny, nerdy-looking kid. For years, I tried to dress in a way to *deemphasize* those two traits. However, there was an article that absolutely changed my perspective … written by the owners of the Plenty of Fish dating website.
The guys who own Plenty of Fish are math geeks who love crunching numbers (and their dating site provides them with tons of numbers to work with). They were surprised to realize that being ugly was almost as beneficial as being beautiful, and *both* were *better* than being somewhat attractive. Put another way, if you have some feature that some people will love and others will hate, *flaunt* it. (They pointed out that people who have tattoos and piercings seem to inherently understand this.)
Based upon past experience, all of my girlfriends were attracted to thin and/or nerdy-looking guys. Therefore, instead of trying to compensate for those two traits, I really should *double down* on them. I'm now wearing glasses with heavier frames, tweed sports coats, and clothes that emphasize how thin I am. My wife loves it.
On a separate topic:
I like the concept of what sprezzatura is *supposed to* be, but not the way that it's actually implemented in the real world. There are many areas where I am good (e.g. dancing). My ease in those situations belies the time I spent mastering the skills to get to my level (and I'll spend the rest of my life trying to get even better). But I don't spend hours getting prepared for a night of dancing in order to "deliberately make some casual mistakes" when I hit the dance floor. For a social dance, I'll hit the dance floor with *no* rehearsal, then rely upon my skill and training to make it appear that I knew every move in advance … when I'm really making it up on the fly.
In my opinion, sprezzatura *should be* the ability to throw together an outfit in minutes that looks like that I spent an hour or more getting ready … not the ability to spend hours to assemble an outfit that looks like I threw it together at the last minute.
That's an interesting theory in fact.
Embracing the extreme end of your personal style is rather polarizing and a lot of people will "hate" it, but if you bump into someone that loves that style, it basically translates to a surefire opportunity. I think it's something talked about in a more recent video (posted way after your comment).
Your story is kinda similar to mine, but instead of leaning into my thinner features, I went for a sort of "dark academia" look, at least in the cold season.
It felt kinda strange at first, but after getting accustomed to it and pushing the envelope further (i.e. adding a knit tie at my own willing), it paid off. Some people looked rather disoriented, but the one that was fascinated by it, well... she made sure that I would notice it. And it's something that happens to me very rarely.
And yep, I'm Italian, from the north. I prefer a more somber British style but anyway 😅
Lived in Gaeta for 4 years and your spin is quite accurate. Thanks for a memory stroll, “prendiamo un caffè” (let’s get a coffee).....
Gaeta is a very nice seaside resort near Naples (for those who don’t know it)…. Complimenti….. your were blessed to live there
The best rule for accessories id est pocket square, watch, bracelet, tie pin, tie bar, rings, cufflinks, collar bars, lapel pins etc. is to do the bare minimum and when you think it's just enough, remove one.
I love that you point the thrifting from family. I'm Greek and I do this at least once a year just to upgrade my wardrobe with clothes of my father,grandfather,uncle
I think relatively consistent weather helps. It's a lot more expensive here in Poland.
You have cold winters, windy and rainy late autumn/early spring. Warm spring and early autumn, and very hot summer. I need to have at least 4-5 types of jacket just for seasons.
Same with the shoes. Of course the style is out there and I must admit that Italians are naturally stylish. The fact that they appreciate local/national shoemakers or tailors is amazing and very beneficial
Itailian Men's Fashion is always the coolest Ever!!
when it comes to dressing appropriately to the occasion, things have changed a lot in italy in the last 20 or so years. my aunts funeral: the only guy in a suit and tie was me. my dad's 90 birthday: everyone but me seemed not to even onsider how to dress out of respect.. when i was i my teens, this was very different
Antonio...this video was awesome. I stayed on elliptical extra 30 minutes to finish.
Quite enjoyable video with all the history lessons. It seems wearing reds was much more common centuries ago
Thank you Antonio, another awesome video. You put a lot of work into your videos versus focusing on quantity!
Two things; You represent your family, and you never over do it.
Your knowledge and respect to all cultures and ethnicities..bravo. Your my go too.
Based on what little I know about the widespread cultural phenomena of La Bella Figura, I strongly suspect all, or nearly all, the un-stylish people on Italian streets are, in fact, tourists.
Italians have a thing for always look and act their very best --even in their own homes doing nothing.
However, if you ever decide to research the concept of La Bella Figura, I would LOVE to watch such a video!
You are very good at doing your research, and this is something I very much want to learn more about.
I have a book called Italian Style by Olivia Reed that is pretty good. But it's also very directed at women, not men.
I also suspect that it may be related to what Baldasar Castiglione called 'Grace' in his etiquette book 'The Courtier'.
Both are very good books, but it doesn't fully explain the concept. And in the rest of the west we just don't have this concept.
But it might just be a very good thing to have.
I am keeping my fingers crossed that it interests you enough to take on this challenge.
True, suspect those people aren't italians there are so many tourists there
Nicely done. From The Book of the Courtier - messer Cesare Gonzaga said:
" …if a gentleman is of worth in other things, his attire will never enhance or lessen his reputation.”
I like the way antonio says "respect"
Yes family has a big influence on how you should dress and quality,leather upper/sole for shoes,Wool,Silk,Cotton, Linen for clothing, growing up you see your grandparents, uncles and Father dressing in a certain way and you follow it these are matters tha are discuss among family/friends , it's a cultural thing, (Fare una bella figura e' molto importante nella cultura italiana) just like i have been drinking a glass of wine at lunch/dinner since when i was 12(i'm 54 now still do it), wine it's part of the meal just like extra virgin olive oil, oregano, balsamic vinegar,cappuccino , espresso, grappa , limoncello etc ,etc, everyday.👏Bravo Antonio
This should be a thing! Analyze different cultures that has an influence in today’s fashion n why
You’re right on point, Antonio!!!
Thanks for breaking it up.
I find how you carry yourself in ANY clothing, is how good you look wearing it. Someone who rarely wears a suit or even smart casual wear, often looks stiff and uncomfortable when wearing a jacket and collar. Someone who wears a jacket and collar every day, because they have to, often looks sloppy as they don't care about the clothes with them being no different to them than a polyester MacDonalds uniform. Someone who LIKES to dress well, puts together various looks and plans based on where they will be, often looks better, comfortable and relaxed but not sloppy.
It's the same with attitude, there's the stuck up, the I don't care and the comfortable in my own skin. Own who you are, own what you wear, own how you smell. Others will naturally gravitate to your more open, welcoming, confidence. I didn't do it for you, I didn't do it for my boss, it's just how I like to be and I'm good with that.
Agnelli got a sweaty wrist so he put his watch over the sleeve...rational as hankerchief then to go loose moving over time. Peacocking effect also, yet subtle. 👏👏👏👏
Pitti Oumo is on my bucket list.
Awesome post Antonio, funny and informative.
Thank you for this video. What comes to mind as an American is the thought that we see and imagine Italian men as not part of the British/American/trad/preppy genre that is prevelent here. They are not of that sort. They have their own clothing history with their own fabric mills and bespoke makers.
Tip for Antonio: let the text slides a bit longer in the image. This gives the people who don't speak English daily more time to read. Greetings from Belgium 🇧🇪
I’m not even close to being Italian (Scottish actually) but I do see that they understand fashion.
Would I wear anything from the runway….nope, not a chance.
That flashy stuff is for show, haughty designers egos and the pages of GQ.
What I did learn was how to put complimentary pieces together that fit well and are tailored to the nines.
Italians seem to have that nailed, like it’s a national pastime or something.
Its also personal pride in appearance.
We can all learn a lot from them.
Italian culture in general is obsessed with beauty, aesthetics. The country also has huge artistic heritage, beautiful paintings, sculptures, monuments, ruins, historic buildings, churches, palazzi. In addition to nature, the Alps, islands, picturesque countryside, all this legacy of beauty influences the mindsets
Hi Antonio. I have really enjoyed a lot of your videos over the years. My best friend is 72 years old and she still dresses her Butt of and gets compliments on the way she dresses all the time from people of all ages. We go out dancing almost every weekend. We go out shopping all the time. I try to dress to complement her style. She has never tried to make me up my game in dressing. I wanted to do that myself. In fact she only dresses me when we go out to formal affairs. She likes for me to dress real nice to compliment the gown she is wearing for that affair. She knows way more about fashion than I do. She has been like that all of her life. Me on the other hand, I consider myself as a little on the basic Bob type but, I do like to look good when I go out with her and by myself. My one big question for you is this : can a 69 year old man wear suede and velvet, looking shoes in the summertime in spring. She seems to think so, and for what ever reason I disagree whit her because most of the men around me don’t dress like that. I have, at one time in my life had 350 pairs of shoes until my home burnt down in 2010. I do have an extensive wardrobe and many more shoes again but, I am not as stylish as she is and I am a little uncomfortable trying to wear suede in the Spring and Summer like she wants me to at times. Is she right or do I have a little more to learn in that department? Please get back to me on this issue. I would appreciate it very much. One last thing. I think I do alright when I dress myself. I just don’t get as many compliments as she gets nor do I need those compliments because I am very comfortable with myself but, For when it comes to wearing suede shoes and velvet, looking shoes in the spring in summer time. That is an entirely different subject for me to deal with. Please help me with this issue. I do wish you continued success with all of your videos and endeavors in fashion and I also wish you continued success financially as well. Have a wonderful day and weekend. I hope to hear from you in the very near future.
It's just in our soul
Some great points in this Antonio! I have to wear Hi Vis at work , so even when I go to the supermarket , I dress smart casual...always makes me feel better ! All my dress/good clothes are sent to my tailor to get the right fit , makes a huge difference . I've had friends say I should go to Italy , as I'd fit in and apparently the ladies like a more mature man ??🙂
Thanks for another interesting video sir.
Gregg.
Well, about the “ladies like a more mature man” it’s like everywhere else. Our young guys have a lot of things to do about it.
No break looks silly in rainy climates
is there any chance to have a video about dressing for different body types? More specifically bodybuilders.
Italian men have a few simple tricks to always look great, they wear: leather shoes, not flip-flops or running shoes, a nice collared shirt, and often, a tie. This look is a chick-magnet, men.
Cubmaster sunglasses are underrated.
Im in italy right now and the main reason is the obscenely low price of very good clothing
I love your channel, and I’m not even a man! There are no female fashion channels that talk about quality, just flash! Italian here, by the way. My grandmother always said even if you have no money you have to dress well, haha
All-around a great style video and appreciate you highlighting the various artworks like Royers painting of Vercingetorix throwing down his arms to Caesar.
The bella or bruta "figura" just simply translates to a good or bad image.
I’m Italian in Australia. Always wear leather, suits and Trench Coats.
Antonio, I know a Centeno family in Mérida, México who truly look as if they were your family. Always been curious about it.
I am Italian-American. My grandparents were poor, but they always dressed well, kept their apartment well, ate well. Dressing well was a matter of respect for the dignity of others and respect for their own a dignity. It was not to put on a show for others, it was just the way they approached the world. They used their meager resources to live a dignified life, and dressing well was part of that. I am profoundly grateful for their example.
I always was impressed by the Italian women and their elegant style. Many men are pretty stylish as well but I noticed that the whole Italians are stylish is gently fading away. I live near the Italian border and go there many times a year and it gets worse every year.
Love your videos Sir. Been watching for years. Keep up the good work. Carry on !
I respect the fact you mention being from TX in the trailer park thank you for keeping it gully.
One more follower, I like your channel but when I heard your Mexican heritage, of course I subscribed to your channel
Shoes at 19:10 to the left "double monk strap brown with dark tip". Any one got an idea of which brand those are?
Anyone got a clue?
Hi! In regards of the history it is a must to mention Etruria, the north of the peninsula, which is still the heart of the Italian style.
Etruria is more central
Etruria was the land of the Etruscans, who were there before the Romans….
@@NigelHyphenJones exactly!
Well, Etruscans are among the most ancient, strongest and biggest culture in Italy’s history. And one those you can find only in Italy.
But I’m not so sure about the “Italian-style area”. Italy is a tiny country, and that area is in strong relationships with next ones. Also, Genoa, Turin, Venice, Milan, Naples, Sicily with others out of Etruria gave a lot to what today you can call “Italian-style”.
I have a great collection of items including neckties. One late afternoon, I was walking through Swansea Market. I had earlier been to a customer meeting and was suited up. From the nearby fishmonger's stall, I heard a loud shout, directed at me.
"Been to court?" 🤣
That is the difference between Milan and Swansea.
I’m in Appleton!
As an Italian American, dressing with style is in our DNA. I remember my late Italian father, who always dressed sharp and inspired me to dress well. He was a young man during the Great Depression. Every time I was well dressed, I would ask him how I looked. He would say sharp as a razor! His approval meant everything to me. Now I dress in his honor! To Italians, dressing very casual, as most Americans do today, is considered shameful and poor taste.
And that is why Milan is the fashion capital of the world
Fashion and style are different
@@filippomonaco2303 WOW
but in order to sell style you have to sell fashion, that’s it.
Or everything else about design and culture and beauty you’re going to find in Milan.
@@giovannimoriggi5833 not really, if you're selling Oxfords and not sneakers you're selling classic style shoes and not fashion shoes.
There are lot of things about culture and beauty not found in Milan 😂😂 Milan is the capital of fashion in Italy, not the capital of culture or beauty 😂😂
@@filippomonaco2303 first of all, classic shoes survive because fashions as well. Then, classic items and style are not the same thing. In Milan you find sneakers and classic and something just invented. That’s style: being consistent with everything, not only in classic. And when a say everything I talk about invent, design, product, show, manage, sell and live fashion.
Nobody says Milan is the capital of beauty, and neither capital of style, and of course there’s no capital of beauty in the planet.
Your style of making fun of facts is an easy way to make you feel comfortable while you sound immature with your too easy comparisons. Nobody can claim a very city of style, anyway you can’t claim there’s not enough style in Milan. I’m pretty sure in Oxford they love sneakers as well.
@@giovannimoriggi5833 when did I say that in Oxford they don't like sneakers? Just to let you know: Oxford is the name of a classic shoe 🤦🏼♂️
And second classic shoes do not survive because of fashion. If fashion wasn't a thing there would still be people wanting and buying classic shoes and so classic shoes would survive nonetheless.
I’m seriously loving your channel man you’re great. Love the info
Greetings from Naples, Italy! Next stop... "Why are pirates so damn stylish?"
Italians are "visual" - knowing what looks right. tastefully embracing Sprezzatura.
Im from san Antonio. There used to be a very popular store called Centeno's, so im not surprised you are Latino
Great content as always but 4 people on the thumbnail are Portuguese not Italian 🙂
Brilliant video!! Great job! Thanks.
I've found that wherever I travel around the world people seem to dress well in the bigger cities then as you go out to the smaller towns not so much.
Another great example, also from the auto industry, is Luca Montezemolo (former Ferrari Chairman). Always looks great.
The difference in leather quality and price vs the us yes Italian leather is my favorite
😇Italian American, Saint Frances-Xavier Cabrini stated that Italians are stylish because they are used to being around beautiful things; they created the best painting, statues, music, poetry, literature etc. I believe her.
Yes, italians are obsessed with beauty, aesthetics. The country has huge artistic heritage, beautiful paintings, sculptures, monuments, ruins, historic buildings, churches, palazzi. In addition to natural beauty, the Alps, islands, picturesque countryside, all this legacy.
It's the Spezzato style. Effortless casual but formal.
Your arms are good bro. Don't worry about it.
Been living in Italy for the last 3 months and they are really effortlessly stylish. The worse part for me is that women are used to the men being so stylish that if you're not dressed to par they just ignore you. Dressing up here is a rule on a daily basis. I need a wadrobe overhaul
@@solimenea that's terrible advice. Don't spend money on women. In fact don't even think about them. Spend on yourself and improving yourself. The women will come to u by themselves.
Love the effort and style they wear and id try these with my own style . Id be the one Embarased being unstylish😅