Giuseppe Marenzi and his wife Alessandra Diana stood on the banks of the Erno River, which flowed into Lake Maggiore, surrounded by the rainy winters and beautiful but unpredictable weather of northern Piedmont. Giuseppe was a visionary, he saw an opportunity where others saw only a problem. The climatic conditions were a challenge: frequent rains, winds, high humidity. But it was precisely this that inspired the idea that would become the foundation of one of the most famous Italian companies for the production of jackets and coats in Italy.<\/p>\n\n\n
![\"Herno](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic8.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"Men's](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic9.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThe story becomes even more interesting when you learn that Giuseppe used cotton treated with castor oil for the first raincoats, a material that came from abandoned military aircraft after World War II. He created value from waste, and luxury from necessity. That was his philosophy, functionality without compromise on quality and timeless elegance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The company’s name, Herno<\/a><\/strong>, is taken directly from the River Erno. It was not a random choice, it was an act of respect for the geography and relief that inspired them, for the water that was their muse. U Flumine est vita – “There is life in the river” – became the motto of the company that will mark the brand’s 70th anniversary.<\/p>\n\n\n Light Down-Jacket:<\/em>\u00a0Herno<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sweater:\u00a0<\/em>Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Trousers:<\/em>\u00a0Loro Piana<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Backpack:<\/em>\u00a0Pineider<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Passport Holder:<\/em>\u00a0Pineider<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Watch:<\/em>\u00a0Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sneakers:<\/em>\u00a0Carlos Santos<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n In the 1950s, Herno<\/a><\/strong> expanded production to hand-woven cashmere coats, and in the 1960s began a women’s collection. But the real turning point came in 1971 when Giuseppe Marenzi became one of the first Italians to conquer the Japanese market, opening a boutique in Osaka. Just imagine a time when international trade was far more complex than today, this visionary from a small town on Lake Maggiore bringing Italian elegance to Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What particularly fascinates me about the Herno brand is their evolution during the 1980s and 1990s. The company becomes the “secret weapon” of the world’s biggest brands such as Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Burberry – all of them trusted them with the production of their most demanding pieces. Imagine, you are so good at what you do that your competition calls you to produce their products. That speaks to the level of craftsmanship of the Herno team.<\/p>\n\n\n Today, under the leadership of Claudio Marenzi, the founder’s son, Herno<\/a><\/strong> is a globally recognized brand with 70% of its revenue from exports. In 2013, Claudio became a Cavaliere del Lavoro, one of the highest honors that Italy can bestow on businessmen. But what sets him apart is his commitment to ethics. Herno uses feathers from only two locations \u2013 Siberia and Italy’s Lomellina Valley. Factories are completely energy self-sustaining thanks to photovoltaic technology. Even when they produce in Romania (because they openly say – “our nylon coats are made in Romania, not in Italy”), these are locations under the direct control of Herno S.p.A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And now we come to the La Giacca Chantilly<\/a><\/strong> jacket I’m wearing today. “I am La Giacca” – this is how the description of this timeless jacket model always begins on their website and in stores. The personification of the jacket is not a marketing ploy, it is a philosophy. This jacket “sunbathes on the shores of Lake Maggiore” as Hearn’s team says and is a legendary, classic piece made from recycled nylon microfiber with a light coating that gives a soft feel and a water-resistant glossy finish.<\/p>\n\n\n What delights me about this jacket is its practicality hidden behind elegance. It has a removable windproof bib with a zipper that goes on two sides. The details are incredible: down filling (90% down, 10% feathers), slip pockets, slim fit. But most importantly, it is designed to be a timeless piece that will be passed down through the generations. Trends are fleeting, but this timeless high performance jacket means it will be passed down through generations to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Its price may seem high, but when you realize that you are buying a piece that combines 76 years of tradition, environmental responsibility, technological innovation and craftsmanship at the highest level, you are convinced that it is actually an investment. This is not just about the jacket, but a special story that goes along with this timeless jacket. It is Herno<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n Underneath the Herno jacket, I’m wearing an Urban Grandad Neck merino wool sweater<\/a><\/strong> by Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong>. And while Herno represents northern Italian craftsmanship, Alpha Studio takes us to the heart of Tuscany in Florence, a city that has been synonymous with art, culture and style for centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alpha Studio was founded more than 40 years ago, when Franco Rossi decided to turn his love for quality and respect for people and their individual value into a business project. He didn’t want to create just another knitwear brand, he wanted to create a philosophy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “To make essential elegance accessible to everyone through a vision of quality and culture” – that was his mission. And it was not an empty slogan. Franco Rossi deeply believed that style should not be an exclusive privilege, but an accessible value for those who recognize quality.<\/p>\n\n\n What sets Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong> apart in the knitwear world is their commitment to essential elegance. They don’t follow passing trends. They don’t change the style every season to sell more. Instead, they develop a timeless aesthetic that remains relevant for decades. It is a design that is assertive in its exploration, but not driven by passing fads, but by a precious and universal aesthetic that can follow the times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The company is still in the hands of the Rossi family, which is rare in today’s world of fashion where multinational corporations buy all the brands with tradition. That family connection is felt in every piece. Wearing an Alpha Studio piece doesn’t just mean putting on a sweater, it means becoming part of a family tradition that reflects strong human connections, reliability and transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The factory is located in Florence, which is no accident. Florentine artisanal techniques are centuries old, and the city is known for its knowledge of fabrics, colors and textures. Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong> uses the finest materials – linen, alpaca, cashmere, merino wool, cotton – each carefully selected for its specific qualities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Urban Grandad Neck sweater<\/a><\/strong> I’m wearing is made from merino wool, perhaps the finest natural fiber for knitwear. Merino wool is not ordinary wool, it is incredibly soft, temperature regulating (warm in winter, but breathable and does not overheat), naturally resistant to odors and does not irritate the skin like ordinary wool. Grandad neck style – a collar with buttons but without a classic collar, gives a casual elegance that works perfectly for both casual and smart-casual occasions.<\/p>\n\n\n The price may seem expensive for a sweater, but you get a few things here: first, Florentine craftsmanship with decades of experience; second, 100% merino wool of the highest quality; third, a design that will not become obsolete; fourth, durability \u2013 these sweaters, if properly maintained, last for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong> is a favourite brand of people who understand that real luxury is in simplicity, in a perfect cut, in the quality of materials, in details that are not conspicuous, but are felt. When you wear Alpha Studio, you don’t radiate the energy of “I know what real quality is.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n If there is a brand that defines “quiet luxury”, that brand is Loro Piana<\/a><\/strong>. Even the trousers I wear, the Reinga model in a combination of vicuna and silk, in camel color, are the perfect incarnation of that philosophy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Loro Piana’s story begins way back in 1924, when engineer Pietro Loro Piana founded the company in the small town of Quarona in the province of Vercelli, in northern Italy. But the family’s roots in the wool trade go back even further, to the early 19th century. The Loro Piana family has been involved in the trade of the finest fibers for generations and this tradition is what will define their future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pietro was not only a businessman, he was an engineer with a vision. He established a textile factory in an area that was already known for its textile traditions. But while other producers focused on quantity, Pietro insisted on quality. From the very beginning, the products were intended for the best European tailors.<\/p>\n\n\n The real turning point comes in the 1950s when Pietro’s son Franco Loro Piano begins to travel the world. It was a time when international travel was becoming easier and Franco took the opportunity to explore the best natural fiber sources around the world. Australia and New Zealand for the finest merino wool, Mongolia for cashmere and Peru for vicu\u00f1a.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vicuna! That word alone inspires awe among those who know textiles. The vicu\u00f1a is a wild animal that lives in the Andes, a relative of the llama. In the Inca Empire, it was considered a sacred animal, believing that it possessed magical powers given to it by the gods. The golden brown and white vicu\u00f1a fleece was reserved exclusively for the Inca emperor, who wore it woven with gold and discarded it at the end of each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But by the 1960s, the vicu\u00f1a was on the brink of extinction. Poachers hunted it almost to extinction, from hundreds of thousands in the 16th century, only 6,000 individuals remained by 1950. The Spanish brought guns and the hunters killed the animals instead of shearing them, because it was easier.<\/p>\n\n\n Loro Piana<\/a><\/strong> entered the story in 1994 when it signed an agreement with the Peruvian government and the Andean communities, giving them exclusive rights to buy, process and distribute fiber obtained ONLY from live vicu\u00f1as sheared in accordance with CITES regulations. It was a revolutionary step in the conservation of an endangered species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then, in 2008, Loro Piana bought almost 2,000 hectares in the Peruvian Andes to create a reserve where the animal could be studied and sheared safely. Today there are around 200,000 vicu\u00f1as, a huge conservation success. But the vicu\u00f1a can still only be shorn once every two years, making its wool the rarest and most expensive in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why is the vicu\u00f1a so special? The fibers are incredibly fine, about 12 microns in diameter (a human hair is about 70 microns). It is even finer than the finest cashmere (15 microns). The result is a textile that is incredibly soft, light, and warm enough to feel almost ethereal on the skin. I’ve learned over time that when you taste vicu\u00f1a, you know the difference.<\/p>\n\n\n Loro Piana expanded from fabric production to ready-to-wear in 1985. The first boutique opened in Milan in 1999, while in 2013, LVMH bought a majority stake for $2.6 billion, but management remains in the hands of the family, meaning the spirit of the brand has remained unchanged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Reinga pants I wear combine vicu\u00f1a with silk. The vicu\u00f1a comes in its natural color \u2013 a warm, rich shade of brown that varies from light beige to medium brown. Silk adds drape and a luxurious sheen. The result is pants that look classic and elegant, but feel like nothing else you’ve ever worn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These pants aren’t for everyone, but when you understand what you’re getting: craftsmanship, the rarest fibers on the planet, a century-long history, ethical manufacturing, designs that last \u2013 you realize it’s more than just pants. It’s a piece of art. It is a collector’s item. It’s Loro Piana<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Every outfit needs a practical element. And while bags often get overlooked in fashion stories, the backpack I’m carrying \u2013 the Pineider Grained Collection Regular Backpack<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 deserves full attention as it’s one of the oldest continuously active luxury brands in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The story of this brand begins in 1774, when America was not yet a formally independent country. The French Revolution is still 15 years away, and in the heart of Florence, in Piazza della Signoria, a young man named Francesco Pineider opens a small workshop. The view from his shop was of Michelangelo’s David (the original statue, before it was moved in 1873). You can imagine the poetics of the moment \u2013 \u200b\u200ba young craftsman looking at one of the greatest artistic masterpieces ever created while creating his own objects of high art.<\/p>\n\n\n Francesco Pineider didn’t just sell paper and leather goods, he was an innovator. He was the first in Italy to sell personalized printed letters, inspired by Anglo-Saxon and Germanic traditions. It was revolutionary at the time and the success was immediate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By 1800, Pineider<\/a><\/strong> became a mandatory stop for Grand Tour travelers passing through Florence. Who all visited the small workshop in Piazza della Signoria? Stendhal, Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, Giacomo Leopardi, Napoleon. These were no ordinary customers, these were cultural titans of their time, people whose taste defined an era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The turning point was the year 1865, which brings Pineider a new wave of success when Florence becomes the capital of Italy. Suddenly, embassies, ministries, state offices and the Savoy royal family became customers. When the capital moved to Rome in 1870, the Savoy family asked Pineider to open a new boutique in the Eternal City to meet the needs of the royal court.<\/p>\n\n\n During the 19th century, Pineider<\/a><\/strong> developed a series of elegant writing sets \u2013 pens, inks, folders and leather goods, all handmade by Florentine craftsmen. Legend has it that Napoleon was among the travelers who entered the historic Pineider boutique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But Pineider’s story was not without difficulties. The Florence floods of 1966, the worst natural disaster to hit the city in modern history, were devastating. The water destroyed countless cultural treasures. Pineider survived, but with losses. However, they managed to save the original engraving molds and designs from the 1949 collection from oblivion.<\/p>\n\n\n In the 1970s, the Pineider family sold part of the company to Gucci, although they remained involved in design and production. The financial difficulties were real – running a traditional craft business in an increasingly industrialized world was not easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The turning point comes in 2017 when the Rovagnati family enters as shareholders and breathes new life into Pineider. With new owners, the brand is being relaunched with a renewed passion for quality, history and craftsmanship in three historic areas: fine paper, writing instruments and functional leather goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The backpack I’m wearing is part of the Grained collection, a collection that celebrates the Florentine tradition of leatherworking. It is made from fine calfskin with a grainy texture that is both elegant and durable. A two-way zipper provides easy access to contents, the front pocket has a hidden magnet, and the adjustable shoulder straps have five different button holes for the perfect fit.<\/p>\n\n\n The dimensions (30.5x41x16 cm) make it ideal for everyday use, a laptop up to 14 inches fits perfectly, plus documents, books, everything you need for a day in the city or a short trip. The Pineider logo discreetly completes the design, discreet but very unobtrusively noticeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What particularly impresses me about Pineider<\/a><\/strong> is their commitment to traditional methods. The paper is still processed by hand and colored with natural pigments. Hand engraving is still done by Pineider master engravers. Every single product is the result of traditional craftsmanship, using only the best materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During 2001 and 2009, Pineider was chosen by the Italian government as one of the official suppliers for the G8 summit. The products they chose, Pineider writing sets, leather briefcases, desk mats and notepads \u2013 were given as gifts to world heads of state, representing Italy. That is no small honor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you carry a Pineider<\/a><\/strong> backpack, you’re not just carrying a bag. You carry 250 years of history, respect for craftsmanship, a tradition that has survived revolutions, wars, floods and economic crises. Carry a piece of Florence on your back.<\/p>\n\n\n If there’s one element of an outfit that best illustrates the link between function and tradition, it’s a watch. And the Nivada Grenchen Antarctic GMT Tropical<\/a><\/strong> I wear on my wrist tells one of the most fascinating stories in the horological world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Grenchen \u2013 a small town in Switzerland, at the foot of the Jura mountains. For more than 150 years, this name has been synonymous with watchmaking. Brands such as Fortis, Breitling and ETA are based here. And here, in 1926, Otto W\u00fcllimann, Hermann Schindler and Jakob Schneider founded a company called W\u00fcllimann, Schneider, Nivada SA \u2013 the company that would become Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From the very beginning, Nivada has dedicated itself to the production of precise and highly functional watches. By the 1930s, they were pioneering work on automatic calibres, water resistance, high precision and chronographs. By the 1960s, Nivada watches were sold in more than 80 countries around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n But the real defining moment for Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong> came in 1950 with the creation of the Antarctic watch \u2013 a simple, elegant, everyday waterproof watch that would define practical timepieces in the mid-20th century. And then, in 1955-1956. year, something incredible happens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The International Geophysical Year (IGY) is planned for 1957-58. year with the aim of promoting scientific research and international cooperation during the time of growing tensions of the Cold War. The US Navy, with a rich history of polar exploration, is tasked with supporting US scientists during the IGY. The preliminary unit heads to the South Pole to begin preparations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Commander? Veteran polar explorer Admiral Richard Byrd. Operation name? Operation Deep Freeze – Operation Deep Freeze and on the wrists of these researchers? Nevada Grenchen Antarctic watch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just imagine, temperatures below -50\u00b0C, extreme conditions, constant moisture from ice and snow. And the watch works perfectly. That was no accident \u2013 \u200b\u200bit was a watch designed to withstand the harshest conditions on the planet.<\/p>\n\n\n But the story has a dark side. In the 1960s and 1970s, Movado contested Nivada’s name due to phonetic similarity. The result? Nevada had to change its name to Nevada Grenchen in 1958, and in the US the watches were sold under the Croton brand (Croton was the US distributor).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the 1970s comes the Quartz Crisis \u2013 the crisis of quartz watches. Cheap and precise quartz watches from Japan are conquering the market. The Swiss watch industry is collapsing. Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong>, like many competitors, fails to adapt. The factory in Solothurn closes in the late 1970s. The brand is disappearing from the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But vintage Nevada Grenchen watches remain sought after by collectors. Until in 2018, Guillaume Laidet (French entrepreneur and founder of the William L. brand in 1985) and R\u00e9mi Chabrat (CEO of the Montrichard Group) \u2013 decided to revive Nivada Grenchen in its Swiss homeland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Using existing business connections with the owners of the Nivada Swiss brand in Mexico, they manage to purchase a license not only for the Nivada Grenchen name, but also for its back catalog of successful models that Nivada Swiss no longer manufactures. And in 2020, they are successfully relaunching the three most iconic models: Chronomaster, Depthmaster and Antarctic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Antarctic GMT Tropical<\/a><\/strong> I’m wearing is a reinterpretation of the original design from the late 1960s-early 1970s. The GMT function allows you to track two time zones simultaneously, ideal for travellers and those who frequently cross time zones. \u201cTropical\u201d refers to the matte tropical dial that contrasts with the amber-toned 24-hour bezel.<\/p>\n\n\n The first thing that impressed me when I put this watch on my hand was its size – 36 mm in diameter. In an age where modern watches are often huge (42mm, 44mm, even 46mm), this modest 36mm looks elegant and proportional especially on my wrist. The profile is thin only 11.1mm, which means that the watch slides under the shirt cuff without any problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The heart of the watch is the Swiss SOPROD GMT movement: \u200breliable, precise, sustainable. The thick Plexiglas crystal gives it a retro appeal and avoids the distortions that are common with overly thick sapphire crystal. An inner bezel with a Plexiglass insert is used to track the second time zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The cost of Nevada Grenchen watches is usually between $800-$1500, depending on the model. It’s a segment where you get authentic Swiss production, real historical models (not just “vintage inspired”) and quality that will last for years. It’s not cheap, but compared to mainstream Swiss brands charging $5,000-$10,000 for similar specs, the Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong> is incredible value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When I look at this watch on my wrist, I don’t just see the time. I see Antarctica in 1955. I see Admiral Byrd. I see Swiss craftsmanship. I see the story of a brand that died and was resurrected. And I see proof that authentic history cannot be replaced by marketing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Details make the difference. And while I’ve already talked about the Pineider backpack, I have to add another piece from the same collection \u2013 the Grained Collection Passport Holder<\/a><\/strong>. Because if you travel, the passport holder is not just a practical accessory, it’s a statement piece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Travel today often means rushing through airports, pushing in lines, quickly extracting documents at checkpoints. But there’s something about pulling your passport out of a sleek leather case instead of a loose pocket. It’s the moment when you show that you still respect the ritual of travel, that you don’t let the rush of the world turn you into another nervous traveler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pineider Passport Holder<\/a><\/strong> from the Grained collection continues the tradition I mentioned earlier 250 years of Florentine leather-working tradition. It’s made from the same fine calfskin leather as the backpack, with a grainy texture that feels perfect to the touch. Inside there are pockets for passports, cards, boarding passes, bills – everything you need organised in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n The color I chose \u2013 Cuoio Vegetale (Camel) is classic and practical, but Pineider also offers other options such as black, blue and burgundy. Each color reflects the tradition of Florentine artisans who have perfected the techniques of dyeing leather with natural pigments for centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What particularly excites me about Pineider products is the attention paid to the packaging. Each item comes in an elegant box with a dust bag, not only for transport, but for storage at home. It shows respect for the product and the customer. You buy a piece that is designed to last and they give you the means to keep it in perfect condition.<\/p>\n\n\n The price of Pineider passport holder is significantly higher than others on the market. Yes, you can buy a passport holder for 20 euros in any shop. But the difference isn’t just in the quality of the leather or the build, the difference is in the experience. The difference is that every time you use it, you’re reminded that style isn’t about the scream of fashion but the whisper of quiet luxury that will last for years. That elegance lives in the details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I finish the outfit in the most important place – the feet. The Carlos Santos Shoes Lonnie 1987<\/a><\/strong> sneakers are the finale of today’s style journey and represents another story of craftsmanship, tradition and commitment to quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Portugal is not the first country that comes to mind when you think of shoe manufacturing. Most people think of Italy or maybe Spain. But those who know the industry know, some of the best quality shoes in the world come from Portugal, especially from the region around Porto and Guimar\u00e3es.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carlos Santos<\/a><\/strong> is not one of those brands with 200 years of history. It was founded relatively recently, but that doesn’t mean it lacks tradition. Behind Santos are generations of shoemaking expertise from Portuguese craftsmen who perfected their skills working for major European brands. For decades, Portugal has been a “secret factory” for many luxury Italian and French brands, they would design, Portugal would produce.<\/p>\n\n\n But Carlos Santos<\/a><\/strong> decided to take a different path. Instead of being invisible manufacturers for others, they decided to create their own brand that would celebrate Portuguese craftsmanship and the Lonnie 1987<\/a><\/strong> model perfectly captures that philosophy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lonnie 1987 sneakers are made of premium leather: soft, durable, with a natural shine that improves with years of wear. The sole is hand-stitched, a process that takes more time and skill, but results in footwear that is more flexible, comfortable and long-lasting than mass-produced alternatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The design is what designers call “contemporary classic”. The aesthetic is minimalist, but not boring. The line of this model is clean. There are no unnecessary decorations or logos that are too visible, but the quality speaks for itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The color Stone (STB) a warm, neutral shade between beige and light gray – works perfectly with almost everything you wear. With jeans, with chino pants, with more elegant pants like these Loro Piana ones. It’s a neutral base that allows the other pieces to shine, but doesn’t fade into the background on its own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Comfort is key with Santos shoes. Portuguese manufacturers know that true elegance does not mean suffering for the feet. The Lonnie 1987 has anatomically designed insoles, a flexible rubber sole that provides excellent grip and leather that “breathes”, meaning your feet won’t sweat all day long.<\/p>\n\n\n What particularly appeals to me about Carlos Santos Shoes is their approach to sustainability. They don’t advertise themselves loudly as an “eco brand”, but their philosophy is inherently sustainable, they produce footwear that lasts. In a world where fast fashion shoes are thrown away after six months, Santos makes shoes that you can wear for years. That’s true sustainability, not buying “green” products that spoil quickly, but buying quality products that last.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The price of Carlos Santos Shoes varies depending on the model, but generally ranges between 200-500 euros. For that price, you’re getting handmade Portuguese shoes with quality that can rival brands charging double or triple the price. It’s a segment where you get exceptional value for money, authentic craftsmanship without the premium price you pay for a big brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When I put on Carlos Santos<\/a><\/strong> shoes, I feel a solid connection between me and the ground. It’s not just physical stability, it’s the psychological security that comes from knowing you’re wearing something of quality, something that will last, something made with care and respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may be wondering, why these brands? Why not some of the more “obvious” choices – Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton?<\/p>\n\n\n\n The answer is simple: these brands represent something that big fashion houses often lose, which is authenticity. Herno<\/a><\/strong> is not part of the LVMH conglomerate (although Loro Piana is). Alpha Studio<\/a><\/strong> is still a family company. Pineider<\/a><\/strong> has survived 250 years not because of marketing but because of quality. Nivada Grenchen<\/a><\/strong> rose from the ashes because his story was too strong to forget. Carlos Santos <\/a><\/strong>Shoes builds its reputation shoe by shoe, without a big advertising campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a world where luxury is increasingly defined by logo and price instead of quality and story, these brands represent an alternative. They offer what I call “informed quiet luxury”. It’s a luxury for those in the know. For those who don’t need someone else to see the logo to feel the value of what they’re wearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This outfit is not the most expensive I could put together. But it is the most meaningful, every piece has a reason why it is there. Each piece has a story that inspires me. And when you put it all together, you get something more than an outfit, you get a narrative of values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another thing that connects all these pieces is the balance between functionality and elegance. Herno jacket is not only beautiful, it is also waterproof and warm. The Alpha Studio sweater is not only stylish, but also temperature regulating and very comfortable. Loro Piana pants are not only prestigious and luxurious because of the rare material they are made of, but they are also comfortable and allow complete freedom of movement. The Pineider backpack is not only refined, it is practical and well organized. The Nivada Grenchen watch is not only beautiful, it is a functional GMT tool. The Pineider passport holder is not just a style statement, it keeps your documents safe. Carlos Santos sneakers are not only stylish, but also comfortable for a full day of walking.<\/p>\n\n\n This is the philosophy I support, that style should not be impractical, that elegance does not mean discomfort, that you can look good and feel good at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let’s be honest, this outfit isn’t cheap. If you add up the prices of all the pieces, we are talking about several thousand euros. But here’s the perspective I want to share:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead of buying ten cheap jackets that will last a year or two, buy one Herno jacket that will last for decades. Instead of five sweaters that will stretch and lose their shape after a few washes, buy two Alpha Studio sweaters that will look like new for years. Instead of ten pairs of cheap sneakers, buy three pairs of Carlos Santos shoes that you can take to the cobbler to get fixed and wear for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you look at fashion as an investment instead of a consumption, the math changes. The cost per wear of a quality piece is often lower than the cost per wear of cheap alternatives. Plus, there’s a psychological value to knowing you’re wearing something quality, it affects your posture, your confidence, the way you move through the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another dimension that attracts me to these brands is their approach to sustainability. I’m not talking about green marketing or symbolic gestures. I’m talking about the fundamental sustainability that comes from making things that last.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Herno uses renewable energy and recycled materials. Loro Piana actively participates in the conservation of endangered species. Pineider uses natural pigments and traditional methods. Nivada Grenchen watches are designed to be maintained and serviced for decades. Carlos Santos shoes can be easily repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But the most important sustainability comes from the simple fact that when you make something so good that people won’t want to throw it away, you’ve done more for the planet than any marketing campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ultimately, what this outfit represents is the idea that style should be a personal story, not a uniform. You shouldn’t wear what the magazines tell you to wear. You don’t need to dress like me or other bloggers or Instagram influencers. You should wear what has meaning for you, what reflects your values, what tells your story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My story is about respecting craftsmanship. On understanding history. About respect for quality. About functionality that does not compromise elegance. About brands that stay true to themselves even when it’s not the easiest or most profitable path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you put together an outfit, you don’t just put together a combination of colors and textures. You are putting together a manifesto of your values. And every time someone asks “where did you get that jacket?” or “what watch is that?”, you have the opportunity to share not only the brand name but the story behind it.<\/p>\n\n\n If this approach to fashion inspires you but you don’t know where to start, here is my advice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start researching. Before you buy anything, learn more about the brand. Read their history. Try to relate and understand their philosophy. Watch videos of how their products are made. The more you know, the better decisions you will make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Invest gradually. You don’t have to buy an entire luxury wardrobe at once. Start with one quality piece, maybe a jacket or shoes. Wear it. Experience the difference. Then, when you’re ready, add the second piece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Look for brands with a story. Don’t just focus on the big, obvious luxury brands. Explore lesser-known brands with an authentic story. You will often find better quality and better value for money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Buy classic, not trendy. Trends pass. The classic design remains. Focus on pieces that will still look good in five, ten, twenty years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Maintain what you have. Quality pieces deserve quality maintenance. Clean them properly. Service them when necessary. Store them properly. Treating quality items with respect will extend their life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t be afraid of vintage and second-hand options. Some of the best pieces can be found in vintage shops or second-hand platforms. Quality products last so long that even “used” ones can be in excellent condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My dear fashion lovers, this outfit is not just a combination of expensive things. It is a manifestation of the philosophy that style should be thoughtful, that fashion can be ethical, that luxury can be quiet but powerful. Each piece tells a story. Herno talks about Lake Maggiore and innovation. Alpha Studio tells the story of Florentine elegance. Loro Piana tells the story of the vicuna in the Andes. Pineider talks about 250 years of tradition. Nivada Grenchen talks about Antarctica. Carlos Santos talks about Portuguese craftsmanship. And when you put all those stories together, you get not only an outfit, you get a narrative about values, about choices, about who you are and what you value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The next time you’re choosing what to wear, don’t just ask “does this look good on me?” Ask “does this represent my values? Do I know the story behind this piece? Do I want to wear this for years or just until next season?” Because at the end of the day, style isn’t about how much you spend or how many brands you wear. Style is about how thoughtfully you make choices. How much do you understand what you wear. How consistent you are with your own values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And if this outfit proves anything, it’s that you can be elegant and functional, luxurious and ethically conscious, modern and connected to tradition, all at the same time. It’s a style that makes sense. It’s a style that lasts. It’s a style that tells a story worth listening to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Today I tried to convey to you the beauty of autumn elegance and refinement, that’s why I prepared this outfit for you with a lot of love, I believe you will like it. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions or any message for me, you can write me below in the comments. Of course, as always, you can contact me via email or social media channels, which you can find on the CONTACT<\/a><\/strong> page. See you soon!<\/p>\n\n\n\n With Love from Berlin,![\"Detailed](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic10.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nOUTFIT<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
![\"Elegant](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic7.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Herno](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic19.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic6.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Alpha](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Quality](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic4.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nALPHA STUDIO URBAN GRANDAD NECK SWEATER: FLORENTINE ELEGANCE IN MERINO WOOL<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Alpha](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic28.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Alpha](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic29.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nLORO PIANA REINGA TROUSERS: VICUNA AND SILK IN THE SERVICE OF STYLE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Loro](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic3.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Loro](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic21.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Detailed](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic22.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nPINEIDER GRAINED COLLECTION BACKPACK: 250 YEARS OF FLORENTINE TRADITION<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Pineider](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic18.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"Elegant](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic17.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Pineider](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic20.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Florentine](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic16.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Men's](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic15.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic26.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic25.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nNIVADA GRENCHEN ANTARCTIC GMT TROPICAL: A SWISS WATCH WITH A POLAR HISTORY<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Nivada](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic12.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Nivada](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic13.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Swiss](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic27.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nPINEIDER GRAINED COLLECTION PASSPORT HOLDER: TRAVEL COMPANION WITH STYLE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Pineider](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic31.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Camel](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic32.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n![\"Elegant](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic33.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nCARLOS SANTOS: PORTUGUESE CRAFTSMANSHIP AT YOUR FEET<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Santos](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic24.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"Portuguese](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic23.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nWHY THESE BRANDS? WHY THIS OUTFIT?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Detailed](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic30.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nSUSTAINABILITY THROUGH QUALITY<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic11.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nHOW TO BUILD YOUR COLLECTION?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/em>Mr.M<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/mrm-style.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ALPHA-STUDIO-The-elegance-of-Florentine-knitwear-in-every-detail.-Mr.M-by-Marko-Tadic-mrmbymarkotadic5.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n