My Style: Luca Roda
Photo: Courtesy of Luca Roda
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Unforgivable mistakes to me are first of all white socks, then short socks, or even worse white, short socks. Then you have the pochette and tie in the same identical pattern, belts and shoes in different colours, short-sleeved shirts with formal blazers.
Please describe your style in three words.
Smart, irreverent, ironic.
Do you believe in role models?
Rather than role models, I believe in styles that serve as references.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Natural fabrics for sure. I have a total idiosyncrasy against everything that is synthetic. But rather than fabrics, I have a certain preference for a specific weave of a fabric.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
For sure I am totally against whatever shines, and I dislike those who dress by mimicking others, without a personal idea of style and character.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
From all over the world: Tokyo. In Europe: Hamburg. In Italy: small, elegant cities such as Brescia, Modena, Lecce.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Surely bold.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
If you consider what I do, I have no rules. However, I always try to find a distinctive accessory.
Celebrities and style...
They seem to be in opposition nowadays, because celebrities just 'have' to get noticed, whereas before the 80s, they were style icons.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Shoes and scarves.
A man should always look like...
Balanced.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Alberto Procovio.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
According to the mood and the weather of the day.
What is your biggest regret?
Not having learned a language from the Far East… but I do not give up!
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Know the difference between being low-profile and distinct, rather than looking excessively rigorous and without any charm. Pay attention to details. Dress with elegance in mind and above all avoid all logos.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Not really. I buy what I like and when I feel like it.
We will never see you wearing...
Slippers.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Junji Tajima, a client of mine who owns the Japanese concept store Strasbourgo.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His posture.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
The elegance from a movie called The Persuaders.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
There are a few emerging designers that strike me. However, one that I definitely admire for upsetting some rules in the way the American male dresses is Thom Browne.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
His shoes and jacket.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I make no distinction, every item in my wardrobe has its own reason for being there.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not always.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Maison Margiela.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Junji Tajima, owner of the concept store Strasburgo.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Be yourself.
