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What to wear for Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este?

What to wear for Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este?

Car Show
Written by
Wai P.
May 6, 2026
5 min read

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is one of the most elegant automotive gatherings in the world. Set on the shores of Lake Como, the event blends historic cars, Italian hospitality and relaxed Riviera tailoring. When thinking about what to wear for Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the key is balancing sophistication with effortless summer elegance. The atmosphere is polished, but never rigid.

One Outfit for Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

Men’s Riviera-inspired outfit with gingham blazer, white Oxford shirt, khaki chinos and brown loafers.
  • Lightweight gingham jacket
    A softly tailored gingham blazer introduces texture and vintage character without feeling too formal.
  • White Oxford shirt
    The crisp Oxford shirt keeps the outfit clean, timeless and easy to wear throughout the day.
  • Khaki chinos
    Relaxed cotton chinos bring balance to the tailoring while maintaining a refined silhouette.
  • Brown penny loafers
    Classic leather loafers reinforce the Riviera spirit associated with Lake Como and grand touring culture.
  • Paisley silk tie and leather belt
    The paisley tie adds understated personality, while the brown belt ties the palette together naturally.

Why this outfit works?

Villa d’Este is elegant, but the setting remains distinctly relaxed. Guests move between gardens, terraces and lakeside receptions under the Italian sun, meaning heavy tailoring would feel out of place. Lightweight fabrics, natural colours and soft structure work best here. This look captures the atmosphere perfectly: refined enough for a luxury concours event, yet effortless enough for a summer afternoon by the lake.

When to wear this look?

This outfit also works well for:

  • concours events
  • luxury summer gatherings
  • terrace lunches
  • elegant weekend occasions

Style notes

  • Prioritise lightweight tailoring that breathes comfortably in warm weather.
  • Stick to a natural Riviera palette: khaki, cream, brown and soft blues.
  • Avoid overly formal business suits, which can feel too rigid for the setting.

Good to know: This outfit is one possible way to dress for Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The right outfit can vary depending on the dress code, venue, weather and the person wearing it.

For broader guidance on dress codes, venue, weather and level of formality, see our complete guide to what to wear to a car show.

About Drover Club

Drover Club is a men’s online styling service that helps men dress right for the moments that matter. For weddings, business events, black-tie evenings, cocktail parties and other special occasions, we curate complete, ready-to-shop outfits from different brands, based on your style preferences, budget, sizes and existing wardrobe.

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