When rag & bone returned to Pitti Uomo last month, it did so by bringing a slice of downtown New York to Florence. Inside an immersive loft-inspired installation, the brand unveiled its Spring Summer 2027 menswear collection, Elevated Ease: A Refined Escape, and we had the chance to meet Swaim Hutson, Head of Menswear at rag & bone, who walked us through.

Swaim Hutson

The collection champions a wardrobe built on versatility rather than excess, refining everyday essentials through considered tailoring, elevated fabrics and understated craftsmanship. Crisp shirting takes center stage, complemented by softly structured jackets, relaxed suiting, lightweight knitwear and innovative performance textiles that blur the line between comfort and sophistication. Grounded in earthy neutrals with moments of vibrant color, the collection embraces a modern approach to dressing one that favors longevity, effortless elegance, and clothing designed to move seamlessly between work, travel, and everyday life.

With a career rooted in American craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for tailoring, workwear and elevated everyday staples, Hutson is redefining the brand’s menswear identity while remaining true to its New York heritage. As brings rag & bone into a new chapter, we wanted to discuss menswear as a whole, as lifestyle is in constant change and sometimes dressing is what keeps us grounded. After all, we all wear clothes.

How has the way men dress changed over the past decade or two?

I believe many of the core codes and trends have remained consistent over time, while the way they are styled and interpreted has evolved. For example, in New York City today, I see a younger generation wearing some of the same pieces and influences that I wore twenty years ago. The difference is not necessarily what they are wearing, but how they are wearing it. The styling, combinations, proportions, and overall context have changed. In that sense, fashion continuously reinvents itself, mixing elements from the past, reinterpreting them, and presenting them to the world in new ways through styling.

Are there any menswear rules you think should be broken?

Yes, I live by the idea that many fashion rules are meant to be broken, though certainly not all of them. There are some principles I remain committed to, especially when it comes to certain fabrications and understanding when they can and cannot be worn. When it comes to tailoring, for example, I appreciate a balance of tradition and rebellion. The history and discipline behind great tailoring matter, but so does the willingness to challenge conventions and reinterpret them for a modern audience. Ultimately, if we never break the rules, we are not pushing boundaries, evolving style, or having much fun. Fashion moves forward because people question established norms, experiment with new ideas, and find fresh ways to express themselves. The most interesting style often lives somewhere between respect for tradition and the confidence to rebel against it.

What is one item every man should own, besides jeans?

A beautifully timeless tailored black or navy suit, cut from a fine Italian cloth, is something I feel should be in every man’s closet.

Are there fabrics or manufacturing techniques you’re particularly excited about right now?

I’ve just returned from a fabric fair in Milan and am absolutely blown away by some of what the mills are producing and showcasing within their collections. There is nothing more exciting than visiting a mill that is over 100 years old and seeing how it continues to push boundaries in the most modern ways. What fascinates me most is how these historic companies are tackling today’s challenges—everything from climate change and sustainability to rising production costs and changing consumer expectations. Their ability to innovate while honoring their heritage is truly remarkable. It’s incredible to see where some of these mills are today and to appreciate how they have evolved over the years. The combination of craftsmanship, innovation, and resilience is inspiring. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to visit, learn from, and work with these mills. For someone who loves fabric and clothing, there are few things more exciting than seeing firsthand what the future of textiles looks like.

What advice would you give to emerging menswear designers trying to build an independent label today?

My advice is simple: be great at one thing. Focus on a single product. Find an exceptional manufacturer that specializes in that product and obsess over getting it right. Set clear goals, put a clock on them, and keep your blinders on. Don’t get distracted by every new opportunity or trend that comes along. Build, refine, improve, and repeat. Then do it again. Consistency and discipline are often far more powerful than trying to be everything to everyone. Too many brands spread themselves thin chasing growth. The most successful ones tend to have an unwavering commitment to their core product and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Rinse and repeat. Stay focused. Never waver.

Finally, when visiting Florence during Pitti, what is one thing you have to do?

Drink the wine and visit Santa Maria Novella.

Check out rag & bone Spring/Summer 2027 collection below:

 

Photography: James Brodribb Styling: Jay Massacret Model: Mike Vasilakis