There is quite a bit of “workwear” shown at Pitti Uomo, and I use the scare quotes for a reason. I’m not usually one to complain about a lack of functionality in clothing, but it’s difficult not to think that most of what is presented as workwear is a joke: flimsy, trend-driven, and beyond that, boring and unflattering. Not so with 1ST PAT-RN, the project of Cristiano Berto and Sylvia Piccin. This is a brand that combines elements of workwear, trad-wear, and ivy-style to offer what I’d describe as nostalgic explorer-wear.
Cristiano and Sylvia
Before you balk at that description, the clothing isn’t costumey in the vein of Haversack or even hardcore in the way of Nigel Cabourn. Nonetheless, it does evoke some of the same feelings of the gentleman (or gentlewoman, as there are women’s pieces as well) traveler, with a regular selection of blazers and chore jackets set atop tapered chinos and denim.
There are two aspects that set 1ST PAT-RN apart: meticulous fabric choice, and smart, largely modern (if vintage-inspired) cuts. The combination results in clothing that is both pleasant to wear and very wearable, with a narrow but fulfilling range of styles. The pieces that most grabbed my interest during our visit were a pair of lovely straight-legged 4-pocket trousers in an indigo twill, and the very handsome chore jackets – in particular, a model in deutschleder that was made specially for Manufactum Magazin (which I hope makes its way into the main collection).
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- 4-pocket trousers in indigo twill
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- A very nice deutschleder jacket
Fans of layering will rejoice, as there are enough interesting mid-layers (vests, knits and the like) to provide a good backbone to the very strong basics; as will those of us who are always looking for an escape from slim jeans and trousers – you’ll find both straight legs and pleats here, which look very nice when presented with chunky footwear. 1ST PAT-RN has also worked with Timex to release a handful of special dials and straps, which makes a great deal of sense when you’ve seen the clothes. They’re similar in style – 1ST PAT-RN is deceptively complex, well thought-out, and utilitarian – but with an enduring attractiveness that’s both compelling and hard to ignore, no matter your personal style.
See photos from Pitti, as well as images from the S/S2017 lookbook, in the slideshow below
Jasper Lipton
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I’ve had a chance to try their clothing on at Standard & Strange. I’m impressed by it’s construction, quality fabrics and soft, comfortable feel. It’s is easy to mix any of their pieces with any of your classic t shirts, OCBD’s, jeans, etc. It’s a logical style next-step for guys who have been wearing a simple workwear wardrobe and want something new.
The owner/designer Cristiano is an interesting guy. I enjoyed a long email discussion with him about style and fit. I was impressed how he would take time to respond to a customer with such thoughtful detail and with such enthusiasm.
With Pitti and other fashion shows displaying more full cut trousers, be sure and check out 1st PAT-RN who offers a fuller cut pants almost exclusively. And, this season with a longer inseam for us taller guys (even though they show them with a rolled higher cuff)
I met him on our last trip to Pitti (obviously), and he exemplifies my favorite part of the show: talking to people who are truly passionate about what they’re doing and what they’re making. Infectious excitement from both Cristiano and Sylvia, which was only dulled when Arianna dragged me away from the booth.
Recently picked up a jacket via Standard & Strange and 1st PAT-RN is really thoughtfully put together stuff. It’s subtle from a distance, but very impressive up close.