- BY ISSIMO
- March 17, 2023
In honour of Father’s Day in Italy, we asked three stylish men to share the style moves they got from their dads
While most countries celebrate Father’s Day in June (June 18 this year), in Italy, the festivity falls on March 19– Saint Joseph’s Day – and it’s been celebrated since the Middle Ages. The day is an opportunity to pay homage to the brilliant beings that are our dads, but also all the father figures in our lives that deserve a little extra recognition for the work they put in.
To mark the festivity, we thought we’d ask three of the most stylish men we know to look back at some of the style lessons they learned from their fathers.
Meet Francesco Capodiferro, CEO of classic menswear brand Battistoni; Alessandro Squarzi, founder and CEO of uber cool label Fortela, and Guglielmo Miani, CEO of Larusmiani, the bespoke menswear and accessories name for the modern gentleman.
From their business know-how to their penchant for quality and timeless pieces, each of them has gathered countless tips from their dads on how to look prim, proper and oh-so sharp – traits that they’ve been able to reflect in their own ventures, our favourites when it comes to men’s clothing and products (which is why we carry them on ISSIMO!). So scroll down for a dose of nostalgic dad style, then go browse our curated Men’s Essentials edit for the perfect gift idea.
Francesco Capodiferro, Battistoni
What is the biggest style lesson you’ve learned from your father?
The use of the tie as a sign of respect for whoever might be in front of you and the circumstances you might find yourself in. That for him, was way more important than any decorative or styling purpose one might attribute to the accessory.
My father knew how to choose the perfect tie and how to wear it gracefully according to the situation. For him, it was a form of communication that referred to precise gentlemen codes of social conduct.
Is there a sartorial element or accessory that you have come to appreciate after seeing it on him?
My father’s clothing was very sober in adulthood and did not include any particular accessories or charms. But a few years ago, while going through his photos, I found a youthful portrait of him wearing gorgeous Plus 4’s Knickerbockers pants and immediately ordered two pairs from my tailor.
Are there any tips from your father that you still refer to today?
The use of simple and boxy loafers without laces under elegant dresses: They tone down and streamline the whole outfit compared to brogues or oxfords. And they surprise.
Are there any pieces inherited from your father that you care about in a particular way?
Many of his clothes and garbs have ended up in my wardrobe. Above all, I jealously keep an old-fashioned hard flannel grey pinstripe and a pair of short cotton swim shorts with a flap, a flap pocket and drawstrings. Very 60s and very chic.
What's a gift you think is perfect for Father's Day?
A silk Ascot tie. But also a striped cotton pyjama. Or some linen socks, white or light blue.
Alessandro Squarzi, Fortela
What is the biggest style lesson you’ve learned from your father?
Elegance. My father has always had an innate sense of elegance, not just in the way he dresses, but in his poise and way of approaching everything. I’ve definitely been influenced by it growing up – and brought that same quality into Fortela. Even today, whenever I go visit him, he’s always perfectly put together. He’s pure style, you know?
How has your upbringing shaped Fortela?
Fortela is essentially a piece of my DNA, and so much of its Americana-vintage aesthetic comes from being raised outdoors, surrounded by my father’s horses. I remember him wearing these cowboy-type clothes when he was with his animals. The brand is nothing but an extension of his story.
Are there any pieces inherited from your father that you care about in a particular way?
There’s a coat of his from 1961 that is now in my closet. It’s a beautiful vicuna number, and not only has it stood the test of time, but it still looks the part. I also have inherited one of his silver-buckled leather belts, which I often wear.
What's a gift you think is perfect for Father's Day?
Time with your children. I am going to spend it in London with my daughter Allegra, who lives there, and I couldn’t ask for anything more special. As for the very best gift I have ever received for Father’s Day – well, that’s Allegra herself. I am really honoured to be able to call her my daughter.
Guglielmo Miani, Larusmiani
What is the biggest style lesson you’ve learned from your father?
To always travel with a tuxedo in my suitcase, especially on long trips abroad. Both my father and grandfather taught me that. You never know what situation or event you might be invited to or have the opportunity to attend, and being prepared puts you one step ahead of the game.
Is there a sartorial element or accessory that you have come to appreciate after seeing it on him?
I think more than specific clothes, one of the main things I’ve taken after my dad is the importance of the grooming ritual. Using the right tools, making time to tend to your beard and dedicate to self-care – those are all notions I got from him. Our Larusmiani grooming sets are very much part of this legacy.
Are there any tips from your father that you still refer to today?
Having grown up among textiles, I learned from a young age that choosing the right material for your clothes is everything. My dad taught me to really pay attention to fabrics, which is something I very much still do today with everything we make at Larusmiani.
What's a gift you think is perfect for Father's Day?
Laurismiani’s backgammon travel set. It’s fun, easy to bring with you on-the-go and allows for some quality time together.