Pitti Uomo and Pitti W are renowned trade shows (for men and women, respectively) that take place twice a year in Florencem, has picked two American labels to be the guest designers at the June edition: Rodarte and Band of Outsiders.
Not only is it interesting that two Americans have been chosen -- previous guest designers include Gareth Pugh and Haider Ackermann -- it's also worth noting that both Rodarte and Band of Outsiders are actually based on the west coast.
In a release, Lapo Cianchi, director of communications and events at Pitti Imagine, said:
"Rodarte and Band of Outsiders are two very different design talents, but they both connect us to the mythology of Western America: Los Angeles, where all three designers live and work; film, which they are obviously interested in; and the expanses of the interstate highway that runs through California or heads into the desert of Nevada. The European curiosity about California culture and the landscape played an important role in Pitti’s decision to invite both designers to Florence at the same time."
It's a clear indication that while the New York indie scene -- which includes talents like Alexander Wang, Jason Wu, and Prabal Gurung -- may be booming, the European set is increasingly interested in the developing design scene in California. The two labels will travel to Florence to present the special collections June 14-17.
