Episode 3: Elegance as a Reflection of Life
Sunday, April 6th, 2025
Marco Spola
According to Marco, this set-up can be described as “a new-era suit where functionality and elegance coexist.”
“Clothing is not just fabric. It is a mirror that reflects one’s life and a tool for self-expression.”
Marco Spola, General Manager at Reggiani Group and former Vice President of the APAC Textile Division at Loro Piana, speaks about the power of suits.
Having worked closely with top-tier figures in the luxury fashion industry for many years, Marco strongly believes that “good clothing” can change one’s life. A suit is not just work attire; wearing it transforms one’s inner self and, consequently, alters how others perceive them.
“In Italy, there’s a saying: ‘L’abito non fa il monaco’ (Clothes do not make the monk). However, I believe the opposite—clothing speaks about a person. People form their first impression within five seconds, and whether one conveys trust and sophistication is significantly influenced by attire.”
According to Marco, a suit has the power to instill confidence. It improves posture, refines one’s demeanor, and demonstrates respect for others. Most importantly, it embodies how one wishes to present themselves to the world.
Redefining Elegance for a New Era
Marco points out that elegance in the past was often intertwined with a certain degree of “discomfort”—stiff wool suits, rigid leather shoes, and strict dress codes. However, the role of clothing has evolved in modern times. With the rise of smart work environments, people have come to seek styles that are both relaxed and refined.
“One of the reasons I was drawn to Reggiani is its fusion of tradition and functionality. Reggiani was the first textile mill in the world to introduce Lycra into wool fabrics in the 1970s, resulting in garments that maintain elegance while adapting to contemporary lifestyles.”
Marco’s Reggiani set-up features outstanding stretchability and exceptional comfort. On his wrist, he wears a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. The combination of this iconic timepiece and cutting-edge high-performance fabric represents a new form of modern luxury.
Japanese consumers have a natural inclination toward functionality, as exemplified by Uniqlo’s Heattech. Marco is confident that Reggiani’s fabrics, which bring luxury to functionality, will gain even more popularity in Japan. For business professionals who frequently travel by train or plane, stretchable and breathable clothing is the modern-day armor.
“In today’s world, everyone seeks comfort. Elegance is not merely about looking good but also about ensuring that the wearer feels comfortable and at ease.”
The Future of Business Attire: A New Freedom
Reggiani’s fabrics are used by luxury brands worldwide, not only for suits but also for a variety of items such as shirts and coats.
On the day of the interview, Marco wore a custom-made Reggiani set-up with a contemporary cut. As office wear evolves toward a tie-free style, we can expect to see more of these sophisticated yet flexible set-ups made from high-quality materials in the future.
Modern attire requires greater adaptability to diverse lifestyles. With the rise of remote work, business wear has transitioned from traditional formalwear to more refined daily wear. For professionals who move between office and home-based work, wrinkle-resistant and comfortable clothing has become an essential necessity.
“A classic design enhanced with functionality for ease of movement. Reggiani’s fabric delivers both luxury and comfort,” says Marco.
Investing in One’s Image
Marco believes that when choosing clothing, people unconsciously envision the version of themselves they aspire to be.
“Selecting the right attire is the same as investing in your future self. For example, when a young businessperson commissions a high-quality suit, their posture improves, they gain confidence, and their behavior changes. As a result, the way they are perceived by others shifts, ultimately having a positive impact on their career.”
For Marco, a suit is not just clothing. It is a key that opens doors to new opportunities and elevates one’s life.
“A well-made suit enhances a person’s presence. It naturally influences the way they speak and move. That is why choosing the right attire should be done with great care.”
The flap pockets add a subtle touch of casual elegance to the jacket. The fusion of Reggiani’s fabric and design expands the possibilities for versatile and flexible business wear.
Clothing as a Tool for Shaping the Future
“In the business world, first impressions are crucial. Many successful individuals pay attention to their appearance, as it helps build trust and attract opportunities,” says Marco.
“Clothing is a form of self-expression. It is essential to consider how you want to be perceived and how you wish to present yourself, and to choose your attire accordingly.”
Marco’s custom-made set-up with a contemporary cut features the refined texture and sophistication that only high-quality materials can offer. It seamlessly adapts to a classic style with a tie, maintaining an elegant and timeless look.
For Marco, selecting the right clothing is an investment in oneself and a means of enhancing one’s image. It is not merely about brands or price but about choosing pieces that align with one’s personality and lifestyle.
To him, attire is not just fashion—it is a tool for shaping the future.
Author: Miyuki Kitagawa
General Manager of VESTA by John Ford, a bespoke tailor in Ginza, Tokyo. Native in Japanese, fluent in English, Italian, and French, she has 25 years of experience as a menswear expert. Known for her exceptional eye for quality fabrics and craftsmanship, she serves a clientele that includes top executives, politicians, and ambassadors worldwide. Even former Italian ambassadors to Japan have praised her work. She frequently contributes to fashion publications and has a deep knowledge of sartorial history. Her favorite food is fugu sashimi (tessa). https://johnford.co.jp/
