Frank discovers biggest fabric trends of outerwear in Milan

By Katie Syk
February 21, 2025

They may say all roads lead to Rome, but anyone with a sense of style veers north instead, to the fashion capital of Milan. Since the early Renaissance some 500 years ago, Milan has made a name for itself in the world of fashion as a destination for luxury goods and textiles. Fast forward to present day and the city’s reputation has only solidified as a fashion mecca where innovative expression meets traditional necessity to build a style all its own.

Our sourcing expert Frank the bear didn’t hesitate when given the opportunity to travel to Milan to mark the launch of our newest showroom, Best of Outerwear. You may wonder what a furry bear needs when it comes to outerwear – after all, isn’t he warm enough with all that fur? Well, even a bear wants to look his best. Read on to see what Frank has learned about Italian outerwear in Milan and the intention that goes into each detail of it.

Italy: the fashion pioneer

With fashion woven into the very framework of Italian society, it’s no wonder that so many garment innovations have emerged from this stylish nation. This holds true, if not especially so, for outerwear. Luxurious coats made by Italian brands like Lora Piana and Brunello Cucinelli have achieved near perfection with their ultra-soft, lightweight wool and cashmere blends. These brands have even managed to create breathable, water-resistant options. Bring on the rainy days.

Sustainability is also top of mind when it comes to outerwear from Italy, with the creation of animal-free down jackets and warm coats made from recycled materials. Italy is taking the lead when it comes to outerwear – and Milan is the epicenter of it all.

Milan stands out

The city of Milan is a dream for anyone passionate about fashion. For our favorite Swedish bear, Frank, though, Milan was beyond anything he could’ve imagined. Why Milan specifically? For a bear who’s learning the ins and outs of outerwear creation, there’s no better place to do it.

For centuries, Milan has pushed the limits of fashion with its unique union of fashion, craftsmanship, and technology. When it comes to outerwear, the city blends luxury and performance in the creation of innovative fabrics made in high-tech textile labs: heat-responsive materials, self-cleaning fabrics, and bio-based insulation are just a few of the unique features that have come from Milan’s outerwear scene.

During his visit to Milan, Frank witnessed first-hand the difference these features make in the quality of outerwear garments. He browsed collections at Prada, Louis Vuitton, and more in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, picking up outerwear inspiration and gaining a true understanding of what these pieces have to offer.

A new kind of luxury

The ultra-refined luxury that’s classified Milan fashion has taken a turn – and this time, it’s of the muted variety. As a counter to the pompous, logo-adorned garments that were once the mark of wealth and style, the quiet luxury movement is gaining momentum, and it’s got a strong hold in Milan.

Quiet luxury is marked by subtle garments of the highest quality complete with perfect tailoring and a focus on longevity (à la the Roy family of Succession). The fast fashion bonanza is out, and the neutral, discreet nature of quiet luxury is in, epitomized by brands like Giorgio Armani and Bottega Venata. Frank saw it across Milan, from passers-by on the street to window displays of the city’s most glamorous shopping avenue, Via Monte Napoleone. He learned it’s not necessarily how something looks that matters most, but how it feels when you put it on. (Cue Frank trying on every coat in his size.)

The ultra-refined luxury that’s classified Milan fashion has taken a turn – and this time, it’s of the muted variety.

Outerwear comes alive in Italy

As the birthplace of brands like Armani, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana, Italy has cultivated a high standard in fashion. A hub of innovation and invention within this industry, Milan offers a scene of forward-thinking development. What better place to base the creation of your new outerwear lines?

Material Exchange’s team of outerwear experts is located just outside of Milan where they have a showroom full of thousands of outerwear prototypes. Alongside Frank and his newly acquired knowledge of outerwear, the team offers brands support on their specific outerwear projects, from initial design to final production. Whatever a brand has in mind for their upcoming collection of coats, vests, or jackets, our team can help make it a reality.

Ciao, Milano!

According to Frank, his visit to Milan was far too short. Still, he managed to squeeze in stops at the traditional Borsalino’s hat shop; the iconic Bottega Rossa vintage store; the inspiring Versace House; and the suburban Fidenza Village. He even made it to a few of the city’s renowned food establishments like Debbie’s and Pizzeria Spontini between fashion destinations.

Frank traveled to Milan to learn about outerwear. He left Milan with much more than that: a deep appreciation and understanding of each decision made along the journey of creating a single outdoor garment. And inspiration for the best fabrics to choose to do it. He can’t wait to help brands along their own journeys. To learn more about how Frank can help your brand create the outerwear you have in mind, visit us here:

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