I was in Milan for a business trip to Italy at the end of June when I impulsively bought this, falling in love at first sight with its texture. He declined to disclose the price. I've had a long relationship with Cruciani, but I was newly impressed by the 8-button front design and the high quality of the 100% wool knitting.

"I liked it so much that I've ordered this model for Strasburgo as well. It has a Shetland-like texture that's unlike any previous Cruciani. It's made from a hybrid wool fabric, with Shetland sheep raised in New Zealand, and while British-style patterns have existed before, I never imagined they could create fabric like this. I'm extremely satisfied with the finished product. The texture is truly exceptional."

As you know, Cruciani is a prestigious brand from Marital, founded in 1966, and a knitwear specialist factory brand that started in Milan in 1993.

"Cardigans, in particular, are very useful because of the wide variety of ways they can be styled. Also, the slim fit is what sets it apart from traditional or established brands that stick to basic designs. It's important nowadays to be able to wear something that is both modern and chic."

I also bought this during my trip to Italy this year, in Milan at the end of June. The price, again, is a secret.

"There are many camicerie (shirtmakers) in Italy, but Barba, founded in the Marche region, is my favorite. And for good reason, look at this. It's full of hand-stitching. Barba has two lines, the Black Label and the Gold Label, and this Gold Label, with the golden name tag, has a high proportion of handwork. The button attachment, buttonholes, collar, shoulders, yoke—all touched by artisans, which is irresistible. You have to examine shirts closely. And of course, the comfort. The fabric is a delicate 170-ply, making it incredibly comfortable to wear. It's truly the pinnacle of Neapolitan tailoring."

There are many camicerie that use artisanal techniques, like Fray and Luigi Borrelli, but why do you prefer Barba?

"I know the manufacturing process firsthand, so considering the exquisite craftsmanship and the purchase price (laughs). But honestly, the truth is I'm captivated by its sheer beauty."

Indeed, it's a shirt brimming with Italian elegance. It's understandable to want to be seen in such a shirt.

"This year, I feel like wearing it with a medium-gray suit with a patterned weave. By the way, the ones introduced here are special orders from Strasburgo. Please check them out!"

Purchased in Florence at the end of June during my trip to Italy this year for 325 euros. As a scarf enthusiast, Shindō felt a jolt of inspiration the moment he saw this Mungai scarf made with vintage fabric, forgetting his work and impulsively buying it. It reignited his passion for vintage scarves. The fact that each piece is different because it uses vintage fabric was also a point of purchase.

"The main reason I wanted it for myself was the long fringe. The body fabric is superb, but I was completely captivated by the elegant, vintage feel of the fringe."

Mungai is a high-end manufacturer of luxury bed linens and towels, patronized by nobility, located in Pistoia, a town near Florence, and has been in business for about 100 years. It seems almost unthinkable to visit Florence and not see Mungai.

"It's also part of a buyer's job to see the local specialties of a region. Mungai is exceptional. With these long fringes, it adds movement and a casual feel. It allows you to balance dress and casual while incorporating the depth and presence of vintage fabric."

Kōtarō SHINDŌ
Born in Osaka. Graduated from Kansai University. Joined Ridea in 2000. Currently an executive officer and head of the Men's Division. He became fascinated with Italy during his university days and moved there, where he met sartorialists, shoemakers, and shirtmakers. He also has a great love for food and drink, immersing himself in Italian cuisine, which he wants to savor for a lifetime. He has a deep affection for Florence and Naples, and his Italian language skills are exceptional, surprising even native Italians. He commands immense trust from brands such as Kiton, Barba, and Cruciani. He is currently also in charge of developing new men's brands for Ridea and Strasburgo. His hobbies include Italian cuisine, mountain biking, and watches.

Strasburgo Minami Aoyama Store
Business Hours | Weekdays 12:00–20:00, Weekends & Holidays 11:00–20:00
3-18-1 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3470-6367
http://www.strasburgo.co.jp/