Roberto Viscomi is a lawyer who’s also passionate about university scientific studies and history, especially the history of lifestyle. He believes that “living well” is not just about luxury, but about appreciating quality and beauty in every aspect of life.
The Beauty of “Living Well”
Roberto’s understanding of beauty stems from the concept of “sybaritic,” which he describes as living each moment of one’s life appropriately. He sees “luxury” as an overused term that focuses on material possessions, while “living well” involves sharing moments of beauty with others. For him, the beauty of life lies in enjoying good food, stunning surroundings, and engaging conversations, all of which are not necessarily associated with luxury.
The Roots of Respect for Beauty
Roberto’s upbringing in a traditional Catholic family instilled in him the values of respect, which he believes are fundamental to understanding and practicing beauty. He learned to respect traditions, religious beliefs, people, oneself, and even things. Taking care of one’s attire with pride is a form of respect for beauty, and Roberto learned this from his parents who had their clothes made by tailors and seamstresses.
The Importance of a Well-Curated Wardrobe
As a young man, Roberto’s father emphasized the significance of a well-curated wardrobe for a new phase of life. This transition marked the beginning of Roberto’s journey into adulthood, and his wardrobe reflected this change. He learned to appreciate the quality and longevity of well-made clothes, contrasting this with the “throwaway” culture that emphasizes quantity over quality.
Knowledge as the Foundation of Elegance
For Roberto, elegance is a continuous quest for knowledge. He draws inspiration from clerics vagantes who traveled across Europe in the Middle Ages, seeking knowledge from the greatest masters. He believes that understanding the origin, workmanship, and fabrics of clothing is crucial to achieving elegance.
Learning from the Masters of Style
Roberto is a passionate connoisseur of fabrics, particularly those made in the UK, like flannel, tweed, and linen. He has been fortunate to learn from some of the leading figures in men’s elegance, including Michael Drake of Drake’s and Jeremy Hackett, co-founder of Hackett. These mentors have influenced his style and appreciation for quality craftsmanship.
The Historical Significance of Clothing
Roberto believes that understanding history is essential for understanding fashion. He points out that even everyday items like handkerchiefs had historical significance. He encourages anyone interested in the history of elegance to read “Flâneuse. Women Walking the City in Paris, New York, Tokyo, Venice and London” by Lauren Elkin.
Secrets of a Well-Organized Wardrobe
Roberto’s wardrobe is meticulously organized, with separate spaces for suits, coats, shirts, and ties. He emphasizes the importance of brushing and storing garments properly, and shares his secret weapon for warding off insects: bergamot oil.
Packing the Perfect Suitcase
Roberto’s approach to packing is practical and stylish. He believes a blue blazer is the perfect item for any season, and emphasizes the importance of “mix and match” to create versatile outfits.
The Importance of Proper Hanging and Storage
Roberto’s favorite Toscanini hangers are specifically designed to care for the shoulders and collars of jackets and trousers. He also suggests using a gadget for rolling up ties to keep them perfectly preserved.
Casual Elegance
Roberto believes that elegance is just as important in casual wear. He encourages wearing Guayabera shirts in hot weather, highlighting their stylish and practical qualities.
Conclusion: Embracing Elegance in Everyday Life
Roberto Viscomi’s approach to elegance is rooted in respect, knowledge, and a deep appreciation for quality and beauty. He emphasizes the importance of “living well” by taking care of oneself, appreciating the world around us, and embracing the rich history of style and craftsmanship. He believes that elegance is not just about dressing well, but about living a life that is both meaningful and aesthetically pleasing.
