Pitti Uomo, one of the biggest events in the fashion industry, reached new heights as gender-bender designer Ervin Latimer took center stage in a Pucci family palazzo in Florence. The live runway show not only showcased Latimer’s distinctive style and vision but also challenged traditional notions of gender and fashion.
The show commenced with a bold command from Latimer himself, urging the audience to “treat that suit with respect.” As the MC of the event, Latimer made a grand entrance in a fire-engine red hyper-fringed leotard, matching tights, high heels, and a giant blonde wig. This set the tone for the collection, which featured deconstructed menswear worn by both men and women, with a unique Nordic twist on tailoring. Models gracefully walked the terrazzo floor of the 17th-century palazzo, presenting the innovative designs to the audience.
Latimer handpicked his cast primarily from Helsinki’s vibrant ballroom club culture, reflecting his own roots. This choice further emphasized the breaking down of barriers and the incorporation of contemporary concepts of unisex, transgender, and cross-dressing fashion. The suits showcased in the collection were made up of multiple pieces, incorporating chopped-off gilets, miniskirts, and tank tops. Latimer’s impeccable sense of silhouette was evident in the elephantine trousers and creatively slashed loon pants that graced the runway.
Prior to launching his own label, Latimer gained experience working with renowned fashion brands such as 1017 Alyx 9SM and Heliot Emil. Beyond designing, he also engages in writing and lectures on topics related to queer culture, anti-racism, masculinity, and fashion. The Pitti Uomo show not only marked the debut of his luxury label, Latimmier, but also served as an opportunity for Latimer to challenge the narrow definition of masculinity. It was his intention to explore and celebrate masculinity in individuals, going beyond societal norms.
In an interview with FashionNetwork.com, Latimer expressed his belief that fashion should liberate rather than limit individuals. He stated, “We challenge both who can perform masculinity and what kind of clothing can be used to do that. Furthermore, we also expand what Nordic fashion looks like.” Latimer’s collection presented a diverse range of designs, including suits, shirts, dresses, and skirts, effectively showcasing the richness of Finnish culture.
The name Latimmier, which is a play on Latimer’s surname, also holds an Old French meaning of “interpreter or translator.” This aptly describes Latimer’s role in Scandinavian fashion, as he seeks to bridge gaps and bring new perspectives to the industry. At a time when the fashion world faced numerous cancellations due to health concerns, Latimer and his brand provided a refreshing and exhilarating moment reminiscent of Warholian fame in the picturesque setting of Tuscany.
Useful links:
– [Ervin Latimer’s official website](https://www.ervinlatimer.com/)
– [Pitti Uomo official website](https://www.pittimmagine.com/en/corporate/fairs/uomo.html)
