My Style: Elbio Bonsaglio
Portrait: Nikola Borissov for Fashion We Like // Additional photo: Courtesy of Elbio Bonsaglio
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
I don't object to anything at all. Everybody is free to do whatever he prefers, fashion-wise. Personally, I don't like mixing formalwear with sportswear (for example a suit with sneakers). Also, I don't really like socks.
Please describe your style in three words.
Free, dynamic...but above all, versatile.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
I don't think there are “mistakes” that you can make, but I do believe that it is important to feel comfortable with what you are wearing. If you feel fine then... you are cool!
Do you believe in role models?
For sure. You can become inspired by other people, it's something very genuine and positive, and not only related to fashion. But since fashion is our topic, I am often inspired by street style and the photography that surrounds it. I feel it's a great expression of creativity.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Denim, leather, and neoprene.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
London. Also, Italian men in general are very elegant, and not only in the way they dress.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Certainly not conservative...however, I don't like being excessive.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Fashion has no rules.
Celebrities and style...
Do not always have much in common.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Letasca vests.
A man should always look like...
A gentleman.
Who taught you what you know about style?
That would be Domenico Dolce.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Impulsively. I don't have a particular style, as I prefer to change all the time. One day I can be dressed in a very informal way and the day after you can see me wearing a suit and tie; I love different styles so I just get inspired...
What is your biggest regret?
I have so many, I can't choose just one. :-)
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
I prefer not to put fashion or style on a pedestal, it's a very wrong way to approach them. I do love fashion and think it is a very interesting and valuable expression of creativity, however I'm not obsessed with it. And to answer your question: style has no rules, just be yourself.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Not really, but I do love shoes [laughs]. Also, black is my favourite colour.
We will never see you wearing...
Anything that is over the top. I refuse to wear something ridiculous or get overdressed just to attract attention or to have my picture taken after the fashion shows. This is not me at all. And one more thing, I find purses for men to be terrible! :-)
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Back in the early days, Gianni Agnelli. Then Mark Mahoney (never met him, but love his style) and my friend Fa Empel.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His politeness and self-confidence.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
When I was a kid we were in a cab in London with my best friend and his father, a very elegant man with great manners. Upon arriving at our destination, my friend's father paid the bill and gave a tip to the driver. Apparently, he wasn't happy with the tip, so as soon as we left the cab, he threw the money outside, in front of us. It was a few coins, but my friend's father patiently picked up every single coin. One should have respect for money, even if you are very rich! That to me was a gesture of genuine style.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I love Olivier Rousteing and Alexander Wang; they are both very young and it is such a pleasure to see their work evolve. I also respect Balenciaga and Balmain for giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents...I hope that someday young designers in Italy will have the same recognition.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
His shirts and ties: their shape, texture, and the combinations he makes.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I guess my suits.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Yes...but that's what we are trying to achieve with Letasca: to offer something very fashionable and comfortable at the same time.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Yohji Yamamoto and Dries Van Noten.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
My great friends Ada Kokosar and Marcelo Burlon.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Give love and you will get it back. And always stay positive, there is nothing truer.
