The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Know and respect the culture of the place, the dress code of an occasion (and being able to break them sometimes!). Style is eternal, fashion fades. Quality is not just a matter of price, or logo.
Please describe your style in three words.
Effortless, casual, and cozy.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Dressing to impress.
Do you believe in role models?
I do have some, although not related to fashion.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Natural fabrics, such as linen, cotton, and hemp.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
In general, I do not like suits, fabrics nor accessories to look too sleek and brand new: I love the vintage look.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
I respect the Japanese elegance, so I would say Tokyo, though I also appreciate the British taste and their casual look after work — the same applies for some gentlemen from the countryside in Tuscany.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Classic, although I do love colour and details, that can be bold sometimes.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I try to dress in a comfortable way, while respecting the environment and the people I am with: from the mills to the board meetings, without being forced to go back home to change.
Celebrities and style...
Is sometimes a very smart mix.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Shirts, for sure.
A man should always look like...
Easy, tidy, at ease: his suit and accessories should belong to him, not the opposite.
Who taught you what you know about style?
For sure I had the chance to meet many smart people, and also real icons: from Peter Marino to Anna Wintour, but also friends like Rebecca Moses.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
According to the weather, to my agenda, and why not, to the mood of the day (in this same order).
What is your biggest regret?
I have learned how to stay away from regret and always look forward.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I love shopping when travelling (gifts, especially).
We will never see you wearing...
T-shirt with a jacket, flip flops if not at the seaside.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Nino Cerruti, but also Giovanni Gastel and Lapo Elkann.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His posture, and whether he looks confident and authentic — also in terms of style.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Wherever you stare at the Italian beauties, no matter which place you are, from minor cities to art capitals, you see how Italians are able to mix eras and styles, while staying true to a certain idea of beauty.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Hussein Chalayan for his high-tech approach, although he is not that new. Also, Italian designers from the Progetto Marangoni initiative — we had positive collaborations with them.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
Easy enough: shoes, and accessories in general.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My father’s items, prototypes from Fratelli Rossetti, my motorbike outfits.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all; think jackets for hunting — very comfortable and super elegant.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I like Massimo Osti’s easy looks and Véronique Nichanian.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Maria Kolosova from Harper’s Bazaar Russia.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
My father’s motto: reinvent yourself.