Eva Franch translates the trend for men’s blue pants into a monochromatic melange of pleated skirt, stockings, and strappy wedges. All photos © Chris Barley/future-predictor.

The Venice Biennale is not only a showcase for the best and brightest minds in the architecture world; it also is a rare opportunity to observe architects and their ilk on display themselves. The exhibitions and installations might merely be an elaborate red herring, a distraction from the purposefully obscure tote parade on the paths of the Giardini and the loungers trying to check their email via the spotty free wifi at the cafés between pavilions. This year, as always, the dress code was kept at a comfortable casual chic. What did emerge as noteworthy, however, was a particular shade of blue pant. See more!

The streets between the Arsenale and Giardini became an extended architecture catwalk.

Pairing blue pants with a red or orange top was an impulse shared by many attendees.

Those who went without a contrasting top could always accessorize with the hot red Biennale tote.

Looking chic in your blue pants was much easier than actually getting connected to the free wifi in the café.

No matter the hue, two are better than one, especially when lit by the abundant natural light at the Denmark Pavilion.

The crazy sock trend was well represented, but blue pants ultimately won the battle.

The foam cubes at the American Pavilion provided a spontaneous complimentary color.

Hans Ulrich Obrist twisted the trend toward the sophisticated.

Sporting blue shorts was not uncommon. Attitude, poise, and sunglasses complete the look.

Shot while running past Marianne Goebl toward the German Pavilion opening, just a hint of blue was enough to make her black shirt dress stand out.

Rafael de Cárdenas improvises with a Herald Tribune hat.

by Christopher Barley

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