Style Talk with Alessandro Squarzi: Winter go-to looks, Fortela & vintage watches

Alessandro Squarzi is an Italian fashion entrepreneur, vintage collector, and influencer known within the international fashion community. Born in 1965 in Forlì, Italy, he began his career in the early 1990s as a store clerk, later opening his own showroom and establishing himself as a talent scout in the fashion industry.

He is best known as the founder and creative force behind Fortela, an Italian heritage brand that combines vintage military and workwear influences with craftsmanship, resulting in truly timeless designs.

Mr. Squarzi is also a recognized figure in the street style scene, frequently photographed at fashion events around the world. His personal style and visual taste have made him a style icon on social media and fashion platforms and his passion for vintage clothing, classic cars, and motorcycles, along with his ability to spot and develop fashion trends, has made him one of the most influential figures in contemporary Italian fashion today.

For our winter #StyleTalk series, we spoke with Alessandro and discovered that winter for him isn’t a season of compromise. Of course heavier fabrics replace lighter ones, colors deepen, layers gain weight, yet the foundation remains unchanged.

Keep reading to find out what is his winter go-to look, which fragrance he always reaches for, his favorite loafer brand, and the car he’d actually take on a road trip around the world.

What’s your go-to winter look?

Alessandro Squarzi: My favorite winter look is a turtleneck sweater, either in cashmere or in soft blue Shetland, paired with slightly worn jeans and a nice blue cashmere coat on top. And of course, my Alden loafers.

“I wear them almost every day. I actually have four pairs of the same model and I never wear the same pair two days in a row. I wear them with basically everything.” - Alessandro Squarzi

Alessandro began his watch collection with a Rolex Daytona 665, bought new with box and papers, and over the years it evolved into something more personal. As we speak, his preferred piece is a yellow gold Patek Philippe 3008. Rather than having a single favorite, he considers all his watches special, each one once a dream that he eventually realized.

When you’re looking for a new watch, where do you usually go? Any trusted shops or online destinations you return to?

Alessandro Squarzi: When I look for a new watch, I usually check specialized stores, both physical and online. Lately, I haven’t bought anything because nothing really catches my eye. For each type of watch, there’s a dedicated dealer I trust.

However, when it comes to vintage watch hunting, Alessandro is a part of the Brutti Anatroccoli project, the result of a shared vision between Carlo Biagioli (The Vintageur) and Alessandro, two enthusiasts united by a love for overlooked timepieces. The brand focuses on rediscovering and reinterpreting forgotten designs, placing authenticity and character above trends or luxury. Currently available selection can be viewed through Fortela's website.

Carlo Biagioli (right) and Alessandro Squarzi (left)

For this Fortela season, what are the must-have pieces?

Alessandro Squarzi: For this season, I’m focusing on the 965 John Japan Denim Cimosato Tasche Regular Fit Ecrù, the Buddy Giacca in Japan Denim Cimosato Indigo Rinse, and the Winston Cappotto Doppiopetto in wool. These are the pieces I actually wear and rely on.

Denim seems central to your wardrobe. Are there specific models (new or vintage) or tailors you suggest for someone wanting that authentic, well-crafted denim experience?

Alessandro Squarzi: For someone starting with denim, I would say: I’m obsessed with this fabric and these pants. I have a collection of Levi’s from the 1940s to the 1960s, which I think would envy many. Since these original pieces are very expensive, we at Fortela recreated exact editions of those garments, by hand, and they sold out before Christmas. It was a masterpiece.

He travels extensively for inspiration, and without a doubt, the most fascinating vintage pieces are found in Japan, Alessandro says.

Is there a vintage item you’ve kept for years that still feels like it defines your style today?

“I'm very fond of my first Rolex (Daytona 6263) and my Native American bracelet, from the 1870.” - Alessandro Squarzi:

Do you change fragrances in winter, or stick to a signature scent year-round? Which fragrance feels right for colder weather?

Alessandro Squarzi: In winter, I stick to the same fragrance I’ve been wearing for forty years. It’s the one I’ve truly stayed loyal to. I think a man shouldn’t switch his signature scent, it’s part of who he is. I use Patchouli Santa Maria Novella, which is available at the Fortela shop.

Your everyday essentials. What three things do you never leave the house without?

Alessandro Squarzi: Of course, my grey sweatshirt, jeans, and loafers. In my pockets, I carry a Goyard credit card holder and a silver Christoff pill box.

If he could take only one car on a road trip anywhere in the world, it would be a Porsche 911, specially adapted for the journey. Though still a dream, he hopes one day to make it a reality.

Thank you Mr. Squarzi for this opportunity, and special thanks to Max Poglia and Cecilia!

Pictures: Alessandro Squarzi, Fortela, BruttiAnatroccoli