Breadcrumbs [Home](/) > [Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini](/markdownify/node/4665) ![Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini](https://media.slman.com/JyLaJ3GkWLIJKSNN2gz7SpSuX7A=/500x221/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-hero.jpg) ![Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini](https://media.slman.com/xtPZPCPkUAWnwJPNJI-Yu6b890A=/400x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-mobile-thumb.jpg) ![Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini](https://media.slman.com/JyLaJ3GkWLIJKSNN2gz7SpSuX7A=/500x221/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-hero.jpg) ![Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini](https://media.slman.com/xtPZPCPkUAWnwJPNJI-Yu6b890A=/400x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-mobile-thumb.jpg) [Style](/style) / 11 November 2026 # Style Spotlight: Carlo Sestini --- Carlo Sestini is the founder of eyewear brand Sestini – and a VIP dresser. As the looks he put together here confirm, his style showcases his Florentine roots, his love of minimal design, and a sprinkling of eccentricity. Photography: Victoria Adamson All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. [ ![](https://media.slman.com/_NwqQr4GECwEQvDE4gNgdiRmUTI=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-landscape-1.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) ## Talk us through the looks, Carlo… There is a thread running through both: Italian craftsmanship meets countryside elegance. The first is my relaxed side: [RRL](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100l7A5q/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ralphlauren.co.uk%2Fen%2Fdiscover%2Fmens-brands%2Fdouble-rl%2F70201) checks and denim, a proper jacket and [Church’s](https://www.church-footwear.com/) boots. I would wear it for a weekend in Tuscany, preferably with no particular timetable. The second is a little more polished: a [Loro Piana](https://uk.loropiana.com/en/) knit, an [Arma](https://armastore.com/en-gb) jacket, [The Row](https://www.therow.com/en-gb?) trousers and [Zegna](https://www.zegna.com/uk-en/) loafers. This one is all about texture, warm colours and the quiet pleasure of clothes that feel as good as they look. Perfect for a London lunch or an afternoon in Florence. ## How do you choose what to wear in the morning? At 5:30 in the morning, glamour is not exactly my first consideration. I’m usually heading to the gym in comfortable gym clothes, preferably cotton – I've always had a weakness for natural fabrics. I train at the [Bulgari Hotel Milano](https://www.bulgarihotels.com/en-US/milan), although calling it a gym doesn't quite do it justice. It's become something of a sanctuary, almost a second home. The wonderful thing is the people. We've all become friends, we encourage one another, and there's a genuine sense of community that makes even the earliest mornings a pleasure. It's one of my favourite places in Milan. After training, the day decides the outfit. I might be visiting a workshop, meeting someone for lunch or travelling. Whatever the occasion, I want to feel comfortable, never disguised. A wardrobe should have manners, but also a personality. ## Describe your style in three words. Timeless, eclectic, effortless. I spend a lot of time in workshops, so my clothes need to survive real life. The best pieces are the ones you buy today and hope someone will still be wearing 30 years from now. But I love Italian country elegance: a tweed jacket, a magnificent leather belt, something with a history. ## Which brands define your style? Loro Piana, [Brunello Cucinelli](https://shop.brunellocucinelli.com/), Zegna and RRL are among the names I return to. I have been lucky to build lovely relationships with people in this world, and I appreciate the mutual support. What I admire is the shared belief in pieces that outlive a season. That is what I want for Sestini too: glasses that might one day be handed down. ## Who influences your style? Gianni Agnelli, naturally. He knew all the rules and had the confidence to bend them. But my grandmother was perhaps my greatest influence. She had impeccable style and introduced me to tailoring. She taught me to notice how a jacket sits, how a fabric feels and how much the smallest details matter. [ ![](https://media.slman.com/Y7qsYX4IITW24Q_t8Rofp11tUeE=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-1.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [ ![](https://media.slman.com/lSufpcaZ8UdJOHFBaBcJgBKxLhM=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-2.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [Plaid Wool-Blend Flannel Shirt, £440 | ](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Frrl-checked-wool-blend-flannel-shirt-multicoloured-p01238363)[RRL](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Frrl-checked-wool-blend-flannel-shirt-multicoloured-p01238363); [Faded Straight Jeans, £330 | RRL](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Frrl-faded-straight-jeans-blue-p01227965); [Loop Reversible Leather Belt, £450 | Loewe](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Floewe-loop-reversible-leather-belt-black-p01207597); [Leather Chelsea Boots, £770 | Church's](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Fchurchs-leather-chelsea-boots-black-p01233936) ## Do you have a favourite menswear era? The 1950s and 1960s, for their beautiful Italian tailoring and proportions. And then the 1970s, when things became a little more adventurous. I love the idea of a perfectly cut jacket with just a hint of eccentricity. A wardrobe should have manners, but also a personality. ## Where else do you find style inspiration? Florence, first of all. When you grow up surrounded by architecture, art and extraordinary artisans, you develop an eye for detail almost without realising it. I love the Tuscan countryside, old houses, antiques, travel and places that have acquired their beauty over time. A room with character can be just as inspiring as a runway. I’m also rather passionate about horses. I feel most myself on horseback and I’ve always admired the elegance of traditional riding clothes: wonderfully practical, yet somehow more stylish than anything designed with fashion in mind. Back in Tuscany, I also produce my own olive oil, honey and wine, which I give away to friends. At a certain point, I realised that a life surrounded by beautiful things could still leave you longing for something more tangible. There’s a particular pleasure in working with the land, following the seasons and making something simply because you love it. I suppose I’m drawn to things that have a purpose, a history and a little soul. Beauty is all very well, but I prefer it when there’s a life behind it. ## How has your sense of style changed over the years? When I was younger, I was rather easily seduced by trends. I think that is part of growing up. Over time, I learned to recognise the difference between wanting something and really loving it. Now I would rather have fewer things, beautifully made, and keep them for years. Quality over quantity is less a slogan than a very practical way of living. [ ![](https://media.slman.com/bw_5F_G3ywW_dRP3jh2zJHydpIM=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-6.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [ ![](https://media.slman.com/BkFj5To4JTy2oErpTU68CQRU0VM=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-mobile-thumb-1.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) Carlo’s personal pieces: [Jeans | Saint Laurent](https://www.ysl.com/en-gb); [Jumper | Ralph Lauren](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100l7A5q/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ralphlauren.co.uk%2F); [Belt | Brunello Cucinelli](https://shop.brunellocucinelli.com/en-gb/?); [Shoes | John Lobb](https://www.johnlobb.com/en_gb/) ## Are there particular clothing combinations you think always work? A tailored jacket with well-fitting jeans. A cashmere jumper over a shirt. A tweed jacket with a beautiful leather belt and loafers. I like mixing something refined with something that looks as though it has actually been worn. Too much perfection can be terribly dull. ## And any that don’t work? Clothes that are too tight, enormous logos, and outfits so carefully coordinated they look nervous. I think you should wear the clothes, not let the clothes wear you. And if you cannot sit down comfortably at dinner, something has gone rather wrong. ## Do you still play into trends at all? Not especially. I suppose ‘quiet luxury’ was the one trend I recognised myself in, although it was never new to me. Beautiful fabrics, discreet details and no need to announce the label: that is simply how I like to dress. I don't need a name for it, though fashion is very good at inventing them. ## What’s one investment piece every man should buy? Bespoke shoes. Your feet will thank you, and so will the artisans whose extraordinary skills deserve to survive. The same goes for tailored shirts and suits. Once something has been made for you, it is hard to forget the difference. It is a philosophy I bring to Sestini as well. ## One brand that’s impressing you right now? [Giuliva Heritage](https://giulivaheritage.com/). I love their approach to Italian tailoring: beautiful fabrics, relaxed shapes and a sense of ease. It feels contemporary without forgetting where it comes from. [ ![](https://media.slman.com/H2cRm3siQUM2q609YR3JXvEq9Hc=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-3.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [ ![](https://media.slman.com/jGXq3ZDGyE6F6aNsp3zHR-WYQwQ=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-4.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [Tomme Reversible Suede Blouson Jacket, £850 | Arma](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Farma-tomme-suede-blouson-jacket-brown-p01220426); [Treccia Jumper, £1,885 | Loro Piana](https://uk.loropiana.com/en/man/baby-cashmere/knitwear/treccia-jumper-FAD7358_J1YF.html); [Ari Wool Wide Leg Pants, £1,160 | The Row](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Fthe-row-ari-wool-wide-leg-pants-brown-p01199601); [Suede Loafers, | £990 Zegna](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Fzegna-suede-loafers-brown-p01057766) ## Where do you go for your tailoring? [Rubinacci](https://www.marianorubinacci.com/uk/), of course. I love the Neapolitan sense of elegance, where a jacket can be impeccably made without feeling stiff. Tailoring should give you freedom, not make you stand at attention. ## An under-the-radar brand that needs shouting about? [Saman Amel](https://samanamel.com/). Their tailoring has a wonderful restraint to it, with beautiful proportions and materials. It is quietly confident, which I find far more interesting than clothes that demand applause. A watch should be a love affair, not a loyalty programme. ## How do you incorporate watches into your style? I hardly wear watches anymore, actually. I've grown tired of the idea that you must buy several watches you don't want in order to earn the privilege of buying the one you do. I simply don't have the patience. But I adore vintage watches at auction: [Rolex](https://www.rolex.com/en-gb) hardstone dials, wonderful [Piaget](https://www.piaget.com/gb-en) pieces and complicated [Bulgari](https://www.bulgari.com/en-gb/) creations. A watch should be a love affair, not a loyalty programme. ## What are your signature scents? That's a secret I'll never tell! I've worn the same fragrance for years and intend to keep it that way. I prefer something unusual, with natural ingredients where possible, rather than a scent everyone recognises from a shop counter. I like the idea of being remembered by a fragrance, but I have no intention of telling you which one. ## What’s the item you’re wearing most at the moment? [Sestini](https://www.sestini.com/), darling! I don't leave the house without my glasses. Otherwise, I have a weakness for traditional hunting jackets: the pockets, the earthy colours, the wonderful fabrics. I don't hunt and I wouldn't want to harm an animal, but I adore that countryside aesthetic. I especially like wearing a hunting jacket in the city, where it is slightly out of its natural habitat. ## What is the best style advice you’ve ever received? My grandmother taught me that elegance is as much about how you carry yourself as what you put on. I've never forgotten that. I hope, in my own small way, to encourage other people to find a little more elegance in everyday life. [ ![](https://media.slman.com/3zl1dy4ffbabwlwZYWRNYq1Mc-o=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fslman.com%2Fsites%2Fslman%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F11%2Fcarlo-shoot-portrait-7.jpg) ](https://www.sestini.com/) [Cotton Corduroy Shirt, £320 | RRL](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=etT1jgERWYw&mid=35663&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mytheresa.com%2Fgb%2Fen%2Fmen%2Frrl-cotton-corduroy-shirt-black-p01227959) ## Are there any style rules you think men need reminding of? Dress for yourself. Get the fit right. And please don't confuse expensive with elegant. A beautiful jacket, good shoes and a little attention to detail will take you much further than a conspicuous label. Above all, try not to look as though you have tried too hard. ## You're going for dinner tonight in London. Where are you going and what are you wearing? London has too many wonderful restaurants to choose just one. At the moment, you'll find me at [Zephyr](https://www.zephyr.london/), [SUMI](https://www.sushisumi.com/) or [Lucio](https://www.luciorestaurant.com/), especially during truffle season, when the pasta is unforgettable. I have a few other favourites, but those I'm keeping to myself. I'd probably wear a tweed jacket, tailored trousers, loafers and Sestini, naturally. And for a truly banging dirty martini, go to [The Lanesborough](https://www.oetkerhotels.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/). Now you know where to find me. Well, almost. ## Finally, what's something people might not know about you? Beyond founding Sestini, I also work as a creative consultant and tastemaker. I've loved styling VIP clients for [Prada](https://prada.prf.hn/click/camref:1100l3Hiir/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prada.com%2Fgb%2Fen.html) and collaborating with brands such as [Dr. Barbara Sturm](https://sturm.prf.hn/click/camref:1101l3NQ88/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fen.drsturm.com%2F). One relationship especially close to my heart is [Montblanc](https://www.montblanc.com/en-gb). I work closely with its artistic director, Marco Tomasetta, whose vision for colour, leather goods and creative collaborations I admire enormously. The house has worked with remarkable talents, including Wes Anderson. Together, we also create events that bring together not just influencers, but poets, artists, tastemakers and other creative minds. The idea is to make the romance of writing feel alive again. I'm deeply grateful that Marco and the team have believed in me and my ideas. Their trust has opened doors, but more importantly it has made the work an absolute pleasure. I love being around people who have something to say, and say it beautifully. Follow [@CarloSestini](https://www.instagram.com/carlosestini/) & visit [Sestini.com](https://www.sestini.com/) Photography credit: Victoria Adamson All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at .