Sprezzatura Style

The art of dressing like an Italian

Consider it the cool, unbothered, fashion-focused cousin of the Danish term, hygge; sprezzatura is not just a style of dress, it’s an embodiment of the Italian state of mind. Sophisticated, uncomplicated, and quintessentially cool.

What is a sprezzatura you ask? No, it’s not an artisanal pasta dish. It’s a nuanced term that speaks to a certain studied coolness that Italians’ do oh so well. With a reach beyond the confines of style, this term is the manifestation of ingrained sensibilities that harken back to a time of Renaissance splendor.

Sprezzatura stems from Italian courtier and author, Baldassare Castiglione (1478-1529) in The Book of the Courtier, which aimed to teach noblemen how to behave elegantly without appearing rehearsed and unnatural. The author described this term as "a certain nonchalance, so as to conceal all art and make whatever one does or says appear to be without effort and almost without any thought about it.” In short- looking damn cool without trying too hard. Who doesn’t want to aspire to that?

The Rules of Sprezzatura

Rule # 1

Keep It Low-Key

The hallmark of sprezzatura is restraint. Over the top, garish adornments don’t convey an air of low-key coolness. Remember, less is more.

On that note, don’t overdo this style type; incorporating too many elements of sprezzature can be a fine line between effortless and sloppy. Don’t overthink it.

Rule # 2

Unstructured Materials & Styles

Breathable, lightweight fabrics such as linen and cotton provide a look of ease without appearing messy. 

An unstructured, unlined blazer atop a button-down collar shirt projects an air of unpretentious self-assurance: the epitome of sprezzatura. 

Rule # 3

Loose & Unbuttoned

The ‘less is more’ approach to this style of dress begs for unbuttoned blazers and loosely fastened buckles. The point is not to appear stately and solemn. 

As for shirts, if you can feel the collar brushing your chin, it’s too buttoned up. As for the sleeves, if you’re not wearing a jacket, I suggest rolling those bad boys up. 

Rule # 4

Mix Casual & Formal

I personally love this tip. I encourage the integration of tailored pieces into your everyday wardrobe, but without the correct styling, it can look like you’re en route to a christening or job interview. 

Use the equal opposite rule. For every tailored piece you decide to wear, pair it with its casual counterpart. Think: structured blazer + distressed denim. Crisp wool pants + unbuttoned. Worn-in linen shirt, suit + gauzy t-shirt + minimal sneakers.

Rule # 5

Relaxed Grooming

This last tip is key to appearing effortless.

I by no means condone poor hygiene or the abandonment of proper daily grooming. This tip is simply to push away the notion of appearing overly polished (I see you excessively groomed eyebrows).

Try embracing a bit of stubble and tousled, un-done hair. Perfectly imperfect- that’s the goal.