Regular visitors to OPUMO are most likely already somewhat acquainted with menswear maestro Luca Faloni and his eponymous label. It's a brand that was founded upon the purpose of bringing exceptional Italian craftsmanship to the world. With a focus on timeless style over fleeting trends,Luca Faloni specialises in premium staples that are made to last –frombreezy linen shirtstoluxurious cashmere knits, all crafted by Italy's finest artisans. Scroll on for the full low-down on Luca Faloni, including our review of one of the label's bestselling styles – the classic blue Denim Shirt.
What's the story behind Luca Faloni?
Turin-born Luca Faloni grew up in Italy surrounded by a strong culture of artisanal craftsmanship and a deep respect for style. It was only when he moved abroad that he realised the quality that he had taken for granted in Italy was less accessible elsewhere."When I was living in London, I realised that I was always going back to Italy to buy my clothes and I never bought any clothes in London," he told us in an interview. "Yes, there were some good Italian brands but they were really expensive and with the international brands I didn’t know exactly which ones to go for, so I always went back to Italy.
A few years later, when working in San Fransisco, he came across some of the first direct-to-consumer brands in the US. "Then it was kind of the eureka moment where I thought, this is how the industry works, with the Internet you can sell worldwide, skipping the middleman and giving the good Italian quality to people worldwide," he says. Two years later, Luca Faloni the label was launched as a permanent collection, with a focus on timeless staples in premium materials and flattering fits.
Luca Faloni review
Luca Faloni only focuses on a few categories, but really strives to perfect them. Shirting is one such category, so I took it upon myself to test-drive one of the brand's bestselling shirts –the Denim Shirt, in classic blue. Read on for my review.
Luca Faloni Denim Shirt
Specifications
- Made in:Italy
- Fabric:Premium cotton
- Available fits:Slim or regular
- Available washes:Light blue, classic blue, midnight blue, black, military green, burgundy
Reasons to buy
- Timeless minimalist style that won't age
- Premium construction, feels like it's made to last
- Versatile look that will team nicely with most trousers and jeans
Fabric
The first thing I noticed about the shirt was the softness of the fabric. Luca Faloni's denim shirts are crafted in Northern Italy using premium denim from the renowned Albini mill, a fifth-generation family business with a rich manufacturing tradition. The result is a super-soft handle and a construction that's robust but not stiff.
Fit
Unlike many shirts that only come in one fit, this shirt is offered in both a 'slim fit' and 'regular fit', providing options for every body shape and size. Plus, sizing is super inclusive, with sizes XS to XXXXL offered. The cut is unfussy and flattering, draping nicely over the chest and torso, with enough room in the shoulders for ease of movement. Overall, the look is elegantly streamlined. It also helps that the shirt comes pre-washed to avoid shrinkage.
Details
It's clear that no detail has been overlooked in the construction of this shirt –from Luca Faloni's signature ‘Paramontura’ collar to the mother of pearl buttons, and the pocket-free construction that enhances the elegantly understated look.
Our verdict
Luca Faloni has mastered the art of shirting (at least in my opinion). The well considered fit and fabric make for a comfortable and stylish addition to my shirting rotation. It's perfect for smart-casual occasions, and I intend to pair it with chinos and leather sneakers for an effortless weekend look.
