AJ Dee offers MEGA Man an inside look at Pitti Uomo 105, highlighting the event’s significance for men’s fashion
Wrapping up the first part of its annual presentation, Pitti Uomo 105 offered a sneak peek into the future of menswear. Distinguishing itself from subsequent men’s fashion weeks in Milan and Paris, Pitti Uomo takes a unique approach by emphasizing interdisciplinary concepts. Born in the 1970s, this four-day event held in Florence, Italy seamlessly integrates traditional trade fair elements with dynamic design discussions, immersive exhibitions, and fashion presentations set against the backdrop of some of Florence’s most unconventional locations. Stepping into this vibrant mix is AJ Dee, a Filipino menswear enthusiast.
In an exclusive interview with MEGA Man, the former actor gives the lowdown on all his experiences, unfolding the specifics from his wardrobe choices to his most cherished collections. Delve into the details and catch a glimpse of Dee’s recent sartorial escapade below.
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Third time’s a charm
This marks Dee’s third visit to the renowned fashion event, having taken a hiatus during the onset of COVID. After some time, he has chosen to return, gracing the fair during the winter season. Reflecting on this experience, he shares that he now understands why many attendees favor January over June. When it comes to standout moments, he points out that the collections from Brunello Cucinelli and Eleventy captured his attention the most.
His sartorial selections
In the midst of recounting his experience, the gentleman discloses, “So this time was cut short because I lost my luggage from the layover in Munich.” Nevertheless, he remained firm in his commitment to present four sharp and stylish looks for the event. The opening act featured a heavy tweed jacket, paired with a medium-weight submariner roll neck and heavy cavalry twill wool trousers in a refined gray hue. Transitioning to the second day, he embraced the charm of blue, adorning himself with a navy cashmere jacket, shirt, and tie, accented by ecru cable knit sweaters casually draped around the shoulders and cream-heavy cavalry trousers.
As the sun dipped on the second day’s evening, filled with various events and parties, the gentleman donned a stylish green and gray covert cloth suit paired with a tie, topped off with an ulster overcoat for that extra layer of warmth. Concluding the day on a celebratory tone, he opted for a more relaxed appearance—sporting a taupe lambswool sweater layered over a shirt, complemented by Japanese denim jeans and a beanie, and rounding it all off with a substantial 800gr wool balmacaan overcoat. Dee also notes that each of these looks comes from St. James Oslo.
His most memorable experience
As the former actor recounts a series of cherished moments, one stands out as truly captivating. It occurs during an encounter with an Italian family who sells the tie brand he represents back in Norway. As he describes the scene, he shares that it was a nice experience to meet a small family that has been engaged in the tie-making business since the 1960s. “It’s always interesting to meet them and know more about their traditions and cultures,” he muses. Dee also underscores the joy derived from forming connections with both fresh and familiar faces who share a common passion.
“Menswear is very small compared to mainstream fashion, and every time one goes to Pitti Uomo, they come home full of inspiration and positivity.”
AJ Dee
The future of menswear
Having taken in various collections from menswear brands, Dee envisions a direction where menswear seamlessly blends casual elements with tailored aesthetics. Expressing his perspective, he notes that menswear moves at a deliberate pace when it comes to embracing trends—a characteristic he appreciates. Yet he observes that this deliberate approach aligns well, given that many fast fashion brands draw inspiration from the timeless appeal of menswear looks.
Photos: AJ DEE (via Instagram)
