Men's // Women's
Conversation With: Brunello Cucinelli
Designer Brunello Cucinelli
Designer and “cashmere king” Brunello Cucinelli exudes effortless style, both personally and professionally. His Italian heritage and joy of living, “gioia di vivere” as the Italians say, embodies the casual elegance evident in his designs. This season, simplicity is expressed through pure, soft flowing shapes and oversize knitwear. Although his designs are inspired by expeditions of travelers past, Cucinelli himself isn’t much of an explorer.
“I am not one to fully indulge in vacations. I am attached to my home, and I am blessed to live in a charming medieval village where nature is all around. I don’t need to go far to find peace and quiet in Umbria,” says Cucinelli.
NM: Describe your personal style when you’re not working.
BC: My personal style is sporty chic. The look is relaxed but I only wear things of impeccable quality and exclusive distribution. A white button up shirt with handmade details, slim fit cargo pants… and a cashmere sweater, of course.
NM: Do you have a specific destination where you escape every year?
BC: For skiing I enjoy visiting Cortina, and I very much enjoy going to Capri or l’Isola di Cavallo, near Corsica. My wife loves to experience new and warm destinations, like Egypt, Cuba or even Miami, but I prefer staying closer to home.
Cucinelli's hometown - Solomeo, Italy.
NM: What is your favorite meal to prepare for friends?
BC: I always keep it simple. The ingredients have to be fresh because it makes all the difference. My favorite dish is pasta with “pomodoro e basilico”, and of course the Torta al Testo, a type of focaccia typical of the Umbrian region. Olive oil plays a very important role in cooking, that’s why I decided to produce my own. We make small quantities but of excellent quality.
NM: What do you consider the ultimate craftsmanship?
BC: Ultimate craftsmanship is the work of the women from our town, expert artisans who spend so much time making the hand crafted pieces that we produce.
Brunello Cucinelli Spring/Summer 2012
For our personal home linens, I sometimes ask nuns from a nearby cloister to work on special embroideries for us. They are unique, one-of-a-kind works of art.
NM: What is your favorite outdoor sport?
BC: Soccer! It is more of a passion. I have my own soccer team: Castel Rigone. It gives me an excuse to play at least 3 times a week.
Cucinelli (lop left) with his soccer team.
NM: Name the 3 things you love about working in Italy.
BC: People with manufacturing know-how. Unique focus on quality from every supplier. The concept of respect for people with talent and experience.
NM: And about living in Italy?
BC: Charm and history of every place. Family values and traditions. Food.
NM: What do you consider your most extravagant indulgence?
BC: My Patek Philippe watch and flying ‘private’…it is almost a necessity if I want to still live in Solomeo.
Enjoy shopping Brunello Cucinelli at the newly opened Walnut Creek boutique or ask your local NM about InCircle bonus points during Up Close: Brunello Cucinelli (March 8-11)
