Written by Rakelle Maurici in Trends on the 6th July 2015

Since fashion become so popular in Italy in the 1960s Milan has always been named one of four fashion capitals in the world. With Menswear sales on the rise year after year and Milan being home to some of the biggest fashion houses in the industry it has struggled to keep up with the likes of London and New York in recent years. However, there are still many things we can learn from Milan Fashion Week; aside from the criticism it may be receiving, it’s fascination and "la dolce vita" persona plays a large role in influencing other nations when it comes to style. 

Trends of Milan Fashion Week SS16 

When you compare what we see on the streets during fashion week in Milan to Paris or London, the style is much more relaxed; where you may be brushing shoulders with more established luxury brands you’d think the need to dress smarter was clear but this isn’t the case. It’s about colour, standout suits, killer shoes - but without looking like you’re just there to get papped. Remember, it’s about the fashion, not you.

Colour Pop - Whether it was red trousers, a blue linen suit or colourful shoes - we saw splashes of colour throughout the streets, which fits with the Milanese scenery and sunshine. Italians are full of life and so are their clothes.

Shades of Blue - Chambray and linen are the best materials for the hot season especially when running between shows in the city. It was the colour of the season at Pitti Uomo and this followed through to Milan too. Suits, shirts, ties and shoes were all seen in different shades and textures.

Statement Jackets - Some sported a full patterned suit and some just had blazers or simply a baseball jacket. Either way, they were full of colour and patterns. 

White - As a main trend of the season; white is popular during summer as it is. We saw men in white shirts, suits and jackets and of course the popular white trouser and dark sport jacket combination. 

Show Highlights 

Gucci - In previous years there has been a lot of stigma attached to the fact that Prada used to take the limelight during MFW, but for the last few seasons it’s been Guccio Gucci that has created the most attention and post show talk. With a seventies theme still on the go this was apparent, with bold colours and patterns - somewhat avant garde?

Salvatore Ferragamo - Salvatore Ferragamo one again displayed such elegant and timeless neutral pieces, their tailored jackets and dress shoes really hit the spot. 

Prada - As always Prada was still just as impressive but perhaps a little more reserved keeping to their tradition. But, when you’re one of the biggest fashion houses in the game maybe some names don’t feel the need to wow the audience like others do.

Bottega Veneta - More and more of the men's shows are introducing women to their catwalks. With the rise of androgyny dressing, there is a very fine line between what works on men and women. Bottega Veneta brought a feminine touch with pastel shades and soft hues, needless to say it worked.

Armani - With a celebration of 40 years in the ‘Made in Italy’ industry alongside Expo, Armani needed to put on a good show. With classy and elegant pieces often in muted colours we saw a sea of blue in soft and lightweight materials, which makes his designs so relatable to his audience.

Versace - Set under a beautiful backdrop of Versace silk scarves the show was a vibrant setting. Leather was apparent throughout, seen as the material of choice for jackets and weekend bags along with some daring patterned shirts.

We attend the 2015 Milan menswear shows to report on SS16 Trends and show highlights at Men's Fashion Week.