THE JOURNAL

Every other year, in the last week of April, the worlds of arts and architecture convene in Venice for one of the city’s most important cultural events, Venice Biennale. Aside from bringing together the country’s high society and the most respected names in art and design, the biennial exhibitions just so happen to round up an abundance of well-dressed men from around the globe, too. To celebrate the opening of the 60th art exhibition, we’ve sent a photographer to snap the best fits – see for yourself below.
01. Mind the checks

Mr Ben Santucci / @ben.santucci
Sometimes, a simple checked pattern can single-handedly make or break an outfit. This stylish fella sums up the concept pretty well – colour-coordinated turn-up cuffs jeans, impeccable stitched-top Derbies, sure, but the oversized, Prince of Wales coat steals the show. If big-coat energy is what you’re after (or are just looking for inspiration ahead of AW24), take note.
02. Try a tonal look

Mr Shaun Miller/ @shaunm.miller
We’re big fans of a tonal ensemble. Particularly of one that involves one of the most expensive shades – beige. Now, we know that this outfit features slightly darker variations, but the inherently luxe look and feel remains unvaried. And although a head-to-toe monochrome look can be a tad monotonous, this Biennale attendee has mixed things up with a contrasting navy sweater, a curated choice of accessories – statement ring, sunglasses and tote bag – and sneakers, which done the whole fit down.
03. Gorpcore reloaded

Mr Valentin Masterous / @valyamasterov
We won’t opine on whether this attendee is a red or blue pill kind of guy, but we will applaud him for his artfully thrown together mixture of technical outdoor clothing and casual and workwear basics. It’s a textural treat, from the parachute trousers and army surplus-esque padded liner gilet to the tee/rumpled shirt/hoodie combo, unstructured messenger bag and Salomon sneakers.
04. Let the coat do the talking

Mr Pietro Tondello / @petertondello
Mr Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca might be the most iconic man in a camel trench, but ever since it was first invented (by either Burberry or Aquascutum, the brands both claim it), anyone donning the highly practical military-inspired overcoat has been immediately cloaked in timeless suave elegance. A crisp Oxford shirt, loose chinos, sneakers and classic sunglasses are all that is needed to complete the look.
05. Extra wide game

Mr Nicolo Tacconi / @nicolaey
Whether JNCO, founded in 1985, knew what its legacy would be when it set out to create ultra-wide jeans is unclear. Since then, the style has cycled through subcultures from nu-metallers, ravers and skaters, finally being reinterpreted for today by brands including Y/Project and VETEMENTS. This pair comes elevated with a high waist. Teaming them with a plain black tee, structured jacket and cap balances them and keeps them the focus of the look.
06. Trench warfare

Mr Josh Bullay
The trench coat has seen some action in its time, notably during WWI when it first earned its moniker. Having withstood the Somme’s monstrous anger of the guns, it can certainly hold its own against a pop of colour. As this gentleman shows, sartorial mainstays in tonal harmony can be the perfect leveller for one brave piece going over the top, in this instance, a patterned shirt worn beneath a blazer or jacket. The support artillery, if you will.
07. Attention! (To detail)

Mr Takayoshi Nonaka-Hill / @taka_nonakahill
No, we’re not tiring of military-inspired fatigues. Here, it’s more about the colour than any particular piece that has served active duty, although the beanie and dog tag-like pendant are neat little nods. (How the leather satchel would fare in combat is a concern.) Even the shade of green leans towards a rich emerald that would no doubt stand out in the arena of war. However, the reference is obvious. A reminder that a monotone palette does not have to mean black, white or navy. Where do we enlist?