Who taught you what you know about style?
I believe that style is not something one can learn — you either have it or not. I had the chance to meet many stylish men and women in my life, but that was just my own definition of “style” which may not mirror what other people think.
Please describe your style in three words.
Clean, elegant, neat.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying to follow trends and fashion without creating your own style.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes I do, but not taking it too seriously!
What are your favourite fabrics?
Velvet, big time… and cashmere!
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Not really, because I enjoy looking at both creative and naïve people. Maybe I object to white athletic socks with a suit… that’s quite tacky!
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Many cities do. I currently live in Milan and I must say that Milanese men are very elegant. Personally, I like the way Parisian men are dressed as well.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I’m kind of conservative in a bold way.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
The first rule is having no rules. I just wear what I feel is fine for me and my physique, what makes me feel at ease in every occasion.
Celebrities and style...
Do not necessarily go together!
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Scarves for sure… and sunglasses!
A man should always look like…
He is enthusiastic, well-mannered, and charming.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It depends on my mood, the weather, on what I have to do and whom I have to meet. I can be super sporty and laid-back on a weekend as well as impeccably elegant for a business meeting.
What is your biggest regret?
I’ve no regrets! I’ve been always trying to do what I wanted to do.
The three essential things a man should know about style are…
Be yourself, well-mannered, and curious!
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Whenever I go shopping for myself I'd rather go on my own; I know what I want and what I look for. I do not even need a sales assistant to show me the merchandise, I just pick what I had in mind. Nobody can really tell me what I should or should not wear.
We will never see you wearing...
As I said before, white athletic socks with a suit!
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Mr Tom Ford once in an elevator, Mr Giorgio Armani down in the street the first day I arrived in Milan sixteen years ago, and Mr Lapo Elkann every day at my office.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His shoes, and then his smile and hands!
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Harrison Ford in “Working Girl” by Mike Nichols!
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Italia Independent, the Italian lifestyle and eyewear brand I work with. They are cool, fun, different, and willing to dare! This is very inspiring.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is…
His white shirts and shoes!
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My vintage black velvet long scarf, it’s my lucky charm, and a Burberry checked wallet. I do not use it anymore but that’s the first designer item I bought with my own money when I moved to London 18 years ago.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
I do not think so; wearing comfortable clothes is key! But then again, I’m not a woman and I do not have to wear high heel shoes though… haha!
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Chanel, big time!
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Patrick Mackie, he’s a very talented and charming stylist at W Magazine. Also, Stefania Alafaci who looks after the image and the advertising campaigns of a very famous Italian fashion house.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
No is not an answer!