Gian Luigi Negri was born into his family’s fine fashion business “Michele Negri“. But it was his vision that helped expand the premium Italian brand internationally while remaining authentic to the company’s style and mission.
How was Michele Negri founded?
My father was a fashion model from Salerno. And my mother’s family had shoe and leather factories. In 1988 my father Michele Negri, and my mother Patrizia Beltrami both followed their passion for fashion and founded “Michele Negri.”
What is the style of Michele Negri?
It’s continental European – classic and comfortable. Still to this day everything is handcrafted in Italy using traditional Neopolitan tailoring and premium materials.
How did the brand evolve over the years?
Me and my siblings Alessandra and Maria Luisa joined the company in early 2000’s. Our idea was to bring a more dynamic “sporty” feel to the line, evolving the ethos of classical elegance to include a more youthful edge.
Whose style would you consider the ultimate “classic and comfortable”?
I’d have to say Paul Newman for menswear. And probably Gwyneth Paltrow when it comes to women’s fashion – she is a very chic woman. But my style icon would always be my dad… just look at him!
Where do you spend time with friends when you are not working?
When I am in New York, it’s definitely Cipriani Downtown. I am friends with the family and I love Italian cuisine.
But when I am in Florence, it’s The Michele Negri Cafè. It’s inside our store on Via degli Agli and is the ideal place for breakfast, light lunch or cocktails in a truly special atmosphere, the epitome of charm and casual elegance.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Nutella, late at night. Guilty as charged!
And what is your one everyday luxury?
My Rolex watches.
Growing up in a big Italian family, what were some of the table traditions in your family?
Until I was 18, we would have every single lunch and dinner together as a family – just enjoying each other’s company and learning about how our day went. We are very close to this day and I would not be the same person now if it wasn’t for them and our family time together.
When you entertain at home, what would be an ideal setting?
A casual dinner for friends with the “La Dolce Vita” theme… I would first surprise everyone with a glass of Chianti accompanied by some parmigiano and prosciutto di parma! It’s simply the best aperitivo.
It would then be followed by lots of champagne and many various Italian small dishes. And if someone is still hungry, bring out the pasta. It’s one ingredient my kitchen never runs out of!
What is your secret to being a good host?
It’s simple – you have to have the right mix of people and make everyone feel at home.
What are the three things you would bring with you to a deserted island?
Well, first of all it would have to be Bahamas. And I would bring my family, my girlfriend and a soccer ball.