MILAN - Designer Angelo Galasso says men are becoming increasingly more fashion-indulgent and vain — but notes that designers must move with caution when nudging them into bolder fashion choices.
An Italian based in London, Galasso's strategy is to add fashion touches to already accepted styles, conquering the male wariness to take a chance one small step at a time.
"Men have a harder time accepting change," Galasso said at his Milan showroom during cold weather previews at Milan Fashion Week, which wrapped up Tuesday. "I work on a piece that has already been seen and accepted and maybe add an unusual lining or different buttons."
Once Galasso sees that those changes are accepted, he will tinker some more, a process he calls "tradition in evolution."
Galasso's collections are rooted in traditional styles, such as double-breasted suits and overcoats, and he typically combines British touches such as equestrian motifs with Italian flair and tailoring. He has boutiques in London, Milan, New York and Moscow.
His latest collection mixes up plaid, striped and checked patterns with velvet and shearling details and dandy bow ties. A plaid tuxedo jacket with velvet trim was worn over a classic V-neck sweater paired with a white shirt and a bow tie. A rich royal blue suede jacket with grey shearling lining and cuffs was worn over a mix-matched plaid jacket and shirts. The combined looks were rich without being flashy.
Galasso was first known for his tailored shirts in the mid-1980s, which had unique and patented cuffs that allowed wearers to show off their expensive watches.
