What a start to the year it's been!
With the success of my Nutcracker collection over the Christmas period, and conquering one of my biggest fears, I already felt like I was entering this year on a high. But along with my first trip to the Pitti fair in Florence (and first solo trip!), it's been the best start.
Pitti Immagine Uomo is a menswear trade show of high end brands that show off their latest collections to buyers, and fashionistas.
Of course I didn't go to buy, but seeing other brands and all of the impeccably dressed men was sure to be inspiring, and motivational.
With it being my first solo trip, it took me a while to adjust to my surroundings and feel at ease. The first day of the show I found a little overwhelming, so I decided to spend the day walking around the city, and taking in the sights. The second day I sat outside the Fortezza da Basso, and quickly sketched the dapperly dressed as they entered and left the show. Whilst it was difficult to capture any detail, I enjoyed the challenge! And well, my phone camera came in handy too...
Turns out sketching outside was a great conversation starter, too. I was taken back by the amount of photographers that wanted to take a photo of me sketching, and it meant I met so many lovely people. They really helped put my nerves at ease! And in true 'Slow Fashion' style, I wore a number of my silk scarves :).
The last couple of days I spent wandering around the show. I was amazed at how massive it was!
I came across such exquisite brands, and really felt that if the day ever came, my brand would be right at home there. (Lets hope it does one day!)
With the show now over, I had a couple of days left to spare. I was on a roll for pushing myself out of my comfort zone, so thought I'd push myself that little bit more.
My Nanny Shirl's (whom the Shirley Collection is inspired by), family were from a nearby city called Lucca. Luckily it was only about an hour away on the train, and even with my very poor sense of direction, I made it safe and sound. And guess what scarf I wore?... There was something special about knowing that I had a part of my Nan there with me. It was comforting. And Lucca was beautiful, just like her.
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