Episode4: The Marinella Tie that Binds Memories – For the Gentlemen of the Future
Tuesday, May 6th, 2025
Featuring Alessandro Marinella
Instagram: @alemarinella
Alessandro Marinella, the fourth-generation custodian of Neapolitan elegance, reflecting on 110 years of heritage.
The historic Neapolitan tie brand, E. Marinella, beloved by VIPs around the world, celebrates its 110th anniversary this year.
This is more than just a milestone in years. It is a testament to enduring craftsmanship and unwavering aesthetic values, passed down through generations, and still continuing to touch hearts across the globe.
From the King of the United Kingdom to members of royal families across Europe, from successive Italian prime ministers to international leaders—the fact that Marinella ties have been chosen by these figures is proof of the brand’s exceptional standing.
And what makes it special has remained unchanged. Just as it was at its founding, the silk fabrics are still hand-printed in England and meticulously hand-sewn by skilled artisans at Marinella’s atelier facing the sea in Naples. The warmth and dignity that cannot be replicated through mass production continues to attract admirers even after 110 years.
On this significant occasion, I had the pleasure of speaking with Alessandro Marinella, the fourth-generation owner and a recipient of Forbes Italia’s “30 Under 30” award, about his philosophy on dress.
With carefully chosen words and a musical cadence typical of Neapolitan gentlemen, his youth is harmonized with a deep respect for classic dress and an unshakable devotion to the sartorial arts.
Elegance with ease—Naples is not only about tradition, but about living style with joy and authenticity.
The Color and Soul of Naples
Naples is a sun-drenched port town rich in history and renowned for its craftsmanship.
“Naples has always been a place where handcraft thrives. Elegance and tasteful coordination are naturally embedded in our daily lives,” Alessandro shared.
Among all items of dress, the tie stands out. In Naples, it is more than an accessory to complete a look—it adds color, spirit, and character.
“Neapolitans love colorful combinations. Even pairings like a white tie on a white shirt, which might seem eccentric elsewhere, are considered a perfectly natural form of elegance here.”
From his words, you can imagine how the city’s vibrant light and atmosphere are woven into every Marinella tie.
Classic tailoring in motion—proof that timeless style continues to stride confidently into the future.
What Should Endure in Changing Times
In recent years, business dress has undergone a notable shift. Ties have disappeared, jackets have become optional. Yet Alessandro believes that classic elegance is being re-appreciated.
“Fashion is cyclical. We’re seeing a return to craftsmanship and classic style. Of course, methods must evolve too. With global warming, lighter fabrics are essential. But even as we adapt, it’s vital to keep tradition as our foundation.”
To embrace change without losing one’s core—that’s what gives classic style its inner strength.
More than routine—each knot holds emotion, memory, and a message of the day. Alessandro’s favorite knot is the Semi-Windsor.
A Tie as a Canvas of the Heart
Alessandro went on to speak about the tie not as a status symbol, but as a reflection of the self.
“Ties are often seen as symbols of authority or formality, but I think they’re much more personal. They express emotion. Bright colors for joyful days, calm tones for reflective moments. A tie mirrors your mood.”
In Japan, we often choose our dress based on how others might perceive us. But Alessandro’s words reminded me that dressing should first and foremost be about honoring our inner selves.
You can express “who you want to be today” with a single tie—that freedom and depth is what makes it so compelling.
A Quiet Ally for a Young Leader
As a member of Forbes Italia’s “30 Under 30,” Alessandro is seen as a rising international leader. He shared a particularly memorable story about his early career.
“I started working when I was very young. I remember asking myself: ‘L’abito fa il monaco, o non fa il monaco?’ It’s a saying in Italy (Editor’s note: This phrase also appeared in Column No. 3.)—does the outfit make the man, or doesn’t it?”
It’s a question we all ponder. Does appearance influence how we’re perceived?
“For me, the answer was yes. Dressing in a classic way—jacket and tie—helped people take me seriously even when I was young.”
He added: “A tie is like a quiet ally. It gives me courage in important moments. Every tie in my wardrobe reminds me of a specific time or feeling.”
This, to me, is the very essence of the “Power of Suit.” Good clothing doesn’t just shape how we’re seen—it strengthens the person within.
With the city of Naples behind him, Alessandro carries its history into every thread.
Dressing as Expression and Legacy
Wearing a tie isn’t only for ceremonies. It can mark a personal turning point or help us reset emotionally. What matters most is that we do it for ourselves.
“A tie is often tied to memory,” Alessandro says. “A proposal, a promotion, a first speech—important life moments always had a tie beside me.”
And someday, those ties are passed down to the next generation. Each one carries the story of its wearer, like a thread connecting past and future.
A heritage print from the E. Marinella archives, revived from the year of his birth. A subtle yet striking nod to tradition by the house’s elegant fourth-generation heir.
Style as Culture—and Mindset
A Marinella tie is more than a beautiful object.
It holds the weight of history, the hands of artisans, and the spirit of Naples. But most of all, it carries the intention of the person who chooses to wear it.
“No matter the era, I want to stay true to my style,” Alessandro said quietly, but with deep conviction.
Alessandro’s words are spoken softly—but they resonate deeply, and leave a lasting impression.
Because— “To dress well is to live well.”
This is not just a belief, but a timeless truth—one that transcends eras, cultures, and borders.It is the quiet power that lies at the heart of how we choose to present ourselves to the world.
Photography: courtesy of Alessandro
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/
