Style Talk with Christian R. Webster: Casa Sartorial, Pitti Uomo & Timeless Menswear
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
For Christian R. Webster, classic menswear is a reflection of heritage, craftsmanship, and the people behind every handmade piece. As the founder of Casa Sartorial in Madrid, Sastrería XVIII in Ecuador, and Cúpula Hats, he has spent the last eight years building businesses rooted in authenticity and a deep respect for artisanal traditions. Dividing his time between Spain and Ecuador, Webster has developed a distinctive perspective that blends British tailoring, Italian ease, and Spanish elegance. Whether discussing bespoke jackets, vintage watches, or the streets of Florence during Pitti Uomo, his philosophy remains remarkably consistent: buy well, wear often, and value craftsmanship over trends.
We sat down with Christian for the latest summer edition of our #StyleTalk series. Here's what we found out.
Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Christian R. Webster: My name is Christian R. Webster, and I am the founder of Casa Sartorial in Madrid, Sastrería XVIII in Ecuador, and Cúpula Hats. For the past eight years, I have dedicated my professional life to menswear, tailoring, and craftsmanship. What began as a personal fascination with classic style gradually evolved into a vocation and eventually into businesses dedicated to preserving and promoting artisanal craftsmanship.
I was born in Cuenca, Ecuador, and today I divide my time between Spain and Ecuador. Through Casa Sartorial, my goal is to cultivate and share a distinctly Spanish approach to bespoke tailoring, one that respects tradition while remaining relevant to the modern gentleman.
Beyond tailoring, I am passionate about photography, travel, culture, and meeting people who are deeply committed to their craft. Those interests continue to shape both my personal style and the way I approach my businesses.
How do you usually start your day? Do you have any rituals or habits you never skip?
Christian R. Webster: My day always starts with a good coffee and taking my son to the bus stop. It's a simple ritual, but one I genuinely enjoy. Lately, I've also been taking my workouts more seriously, so exercise has become an important part of my routine.
Whenever possible, I walk to the atelier through the streets of Madrid. Those walks are incredibly inspiring. I enjoy observing people, architecture, and the small details that often go unnoticed. I usually carry my camera with me and capture a few street photographs along the way.
Another ritual I never skip is getting dressed. Whether I'm wearing tailoring or something more relaxed, I like to take my time. Clothing is a way of expressing my mood and mindset, and I believe how we present ourselves influences how we approach the day ahead.
How would you describe your personal style in a few words?
“Classic, relaxed, intentional, and timeless. My style draws heavily from British tailoring, Italian ease, and Spanish elegance. I appreciate quality, good proportions, and garments that become even better with age. My goal has never been to be fashionable. I simply want to be appropriately dressed, comfortable, and authentic to who I am.” - Christian R. Webster
Christian prefers variety over sticking to a single favourite pair of sunglasses. His choice depends on the season, the destination, or simply what he's wearing that day. He gravitates towards classic round frames and Wayfarer styles, favouring lightly tinted lenses for their versatility and elegance. Much like ties or watches, he sees sunglasses as an expression of different moods and occasions, with many pairs carrying memories of specific trips, people, and moments.
Is there a shoe or loafer brand you always come back to?
Christian R. Webster: Alden remains one of my absolute favourites. Their shoes have character, comfort, and a certain honesty that I deeply appreciate. They're beautifully made without trying too hard to impress. I also enjoy Crockett & Jones, particularly for their consistency and craftsmanship, but Alden always feels familiar, like an old friend you can rely on.
Christian's appreciation for watches centres on timeless design rather than passing trends. He admires Rolex for its versatility, Cartier for its understated elegance, while Omega holds particular sentimental value as his grandfather's favourite brand. Vintage watches, smaller case sizes, and understated designs appeal to him the most, as he believes the best timepieces are those that tell a story rather than simply attract attention.
Ecuador will always be home for him. He continues to divide his time between Cuenca, where he was born, and Quito, where one of his stores is based, returning several times each year to stay connected with family, lifelong friends, and the artisans who have been part of his journey from the very beginning. In Europe, however, Florence has become his second home. Annual visits for Pitti Uomo have filled the city with friendships, inspiration, and memorable conversations, while its unique appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and tradition continues to remind him why he fell in love with classic menswear in the first place.
Tell us more about Casa Sartorial. What defines the brand, and which pieces best represent its identity?
Christian R. Webster: Casa Sartorial is a bespoke tailoring house and curated menswear shop based in Madrid. From the very beginning, our ambition was never simply to make clothes. We wanted to create a space for men who appreciate craftsmanship, quality, and timeless style. Bespoke tailoring sits at the heart of what we do, but alongside it we carefully curate products and brands that share our values and aesthetic. Every item in the shop is something we genuinely admire and would happily wear ourselves.
Our philosophy is simple: “preserve the traditions of Spanish tailoring while adapting them to the needs of the modern gentleman”. Everything revolves around craftsmanship, honest construction, quality materials, and long-term relationships with our clients.
If I had to choose one garment that best represents our identity, it would be our V27 House Jacket. It perfectly reflects our interpretation of contemporary Spanish tailoring, soft, elegant, versatile, and comfortable enough to wear every day.
Cúpula Hats was born from Christian's desire to celebrate one of Ecuador's greatest artisanal traditions. Having grown up in Cuenca, he was surrounded by the craftsmanship behind what the world knows as the Panama Hat, while also recognising that few people understood its true Ecuadorian origins. Through the brand, he aims to preserve this remarkable heritage, support the artisans who continue weaving each hat by hand, and share a piece of Ecuador with the international menswear community. Like Casa Sartorial, Cúpula Hats is built on the values of craftsmanship, authenticity, heritage, and doing things properly.
Is there a piece in your wardrobe that you've owned for years and still wear regularly?
Christian R. Webster: Without hesitation, a navy blazer. The more I travel and the older I become, the more I appreciate simplicity and versatility. A well-made navy blazer works with almost anything: grey flannels, ecru trousers, chinos, denim, loafers, a tie, or simply an open-collar shirt.
Which shirt brand would you recommend for the perfect summer wardrobe?
Christian R. Webster: Naturally, I wear Casa Sartorial shirts because they're made according to my own preferences and how I like a shirt to fit and perform throughout the day. When it comes to fabrics, I've always been particularly fond of Thomas Mason. Their cloth combines comfort, elegance, and character that only improves with wear.
During summer, I favour lightweight poplins, linens, and open-weave cottons. I'm also a fan of the Thomas Mason Journey collection, especially when travelling, thanks to its wrinkle resistance without compromising comfort or style.
“For me, the ideal summer shirt is simple: well-cut, breathable, comfortable, and versatile enough to work with a suit, a navy blazer, or simply linen trousers.” - Christian R. Webster
Pitti 110 is behind us. What did you pack into your suitcase?
Christian R. Webster: Probably too much. A typical Pitti suitcase included a navy blazer, grey trousers, several shirts, ties, loafers, a Panama hat from Cúpula Hats, and of course, my camera. This year I also brought several linen suits, a Solaro suit, and a black-tie option, as the days were filled with appointments, dinners, presentations, and spontaneous gatherings with friends. For me, Pitti has never been just about clothing. It's about people, friendships, conversations, inspiration, and the opportunity to reconnect with a community that shares a passion for craftsmanship and style.
Christian enjoys rotating fragrances throughout the year rather than staying loyal to a single signature scent. His current favourites include Santal 33 by Le Labo, Erba Pura by Xerjoff, and Wild Vetiver by Creed, each chosen to suit the season, destination, or mood. Much like clothing, he sees fragrance as a way to create an atmosphere, with every scent becoming connected to specific memories and experiences.
What are the three things you never leave the house without?
“My camera, my glasses, and some form of neckwear, whether that's a tie, a bandana, or simply a pocket square.” - Christian R. Webster
The camera is probably the most important. Photography has become a way of documenting not only places and people, but also moments of inspiration that would otherwise be forgotten. I rarely leave home without something that allows me to observe and record the world around me.
In your opinion, which timeless wardrobe pieces should every modern gentleman invest in?
Christian R. Webster: Every gentleman should own a few foundational pieces that remain relevant regardless of fashion cycles. A navy suit, grey wool trousers, a white shirt, a pair of quality loafers, and either a classic overcoat or a Barbour jacket. These garments have stood the test of time for a reason. They're versatile, elegant, and capable of forming the foundation of a wardrobe that can evolve naturally over the years.
Is there a hidden gem in Madrid you always enjoy returning to?
Christian R. Webster: One of my favourite things to do in Madrid is simply walk through the Salamanca district, observing the people, the cafés, the shop windows, and the rhythm of everyday life. It perfectly balances elegance, culture, and the energy of a great city. If I had to mention one place I always return to, it would be La Giralda. I love Andalusian cuisine, and every visit makes me feel a little at home.
Over the years I've developed a friendship with Carmelo Espinosa and his family, which makes every visit even more meaningful. It's become one of those places where I regularly take clients, suppliers, and friends visiting Madrid. Good food is important, of course, but what keeps me coming back is the atmosphere, the people, and the feeling that some places still value hospitality and tradition above everything else.
Dear Christian thank you for this lovely interview and best of luck in the future!
Photo: Christian R. Webster