Mysticism and haute couture during “Pitti Uomo” last June, dominated the scene at the Savoy in Florence highlighting the long cassock gown dedicated to the Pope in an atmosphere of great inner elegance and refinement. Franco Puppato well-known Venetian tailor famous for his exclusive clothes – strictly handmade as in the past – together with Valentino Ricci, allowed the well-known model Massimo Gradini to parade in the premises of the famous hotel located in the heart of the Medici city. In long, white dress, with beautiful row of satin finished buttons, Gradini literally amazed the many people present during the exclusive Florentine event, in his usual finesse, combined with much grace and pure grace.
Reached later in the usual circle of friends, we asked him to reenact such a moment.
“Well, I would observe that I felt completely comfortable moving very naturally.”
Inevitable to say that it is part of his profession.
“I agree, adding that the new Pontiff as we know born in America, enjoys extremely youthful appearance. I wish that he will bring a healthy breath of fresh air, exercising his role vis-à-vis the existing strong conflicts.”
We notice the beautiful silvery hair accompanied by the mature expression.
“That’s right, I am 68 years old and I started such profession of photo-model-modeling in my twenties, with few yet vital interruptions by devoting myself to my private business.”
Currently, in the world of cosmetics and fashion, there is a wide emphasis on the over-aged. How do you explain this?
“To the fact that age has lengthened: testimony to this are various characters such as Isabella Rossellini who lives on her farm in America and is still in demand, as well as Brigitte Nielsen, a stunning 61-year-old in her fine 6-foot-1 height.”
In American culture this is very much felt by making such characters become style icons and role models.
“Indeed it’s a very ingrained thing with them as indeed even more so, having known the States professionally.”
Can you tell us about it?
“In New Orleans for the ‘Brioni’ company, we paraded in a most pleasant atmosphere with parties everywhere every night and… “very good their Asian – fusion dishes!” I’m talking about a simply beautiful city, mellowed by that delightful and fun French quarter like few others. For them, music is a real ritual and it was great to hear as well as see that improvised trio of musicians-the youngest must have been 80 years old-performing in one of the most iconic jazz venues. Even more wonderful then to know that the proceeds went to charity, knowing that such institutions are thriving there.”
“In New York for ‘Testoni’ luxury shoes, we were testimonials for an event organized by: ‘Italians Magazine’ in the presence of Pavarotti and other prominent people residing in the Big Apple. I returned again some time later, for ‘Philippe Plein,’ which also presented the extra-luxury ‘Billionaire’ line, in a highly exclusive club. In the middle of the evening Mickey Rourke also appeared, finding it decidedly different from ‘Nine 1/2 Weeks'”
“Fifty models we were, already, as many as fifty all ‘ever-greens’ like me, the only Italian, in an atmosphere of parades accompanied by big parties, always lived in a rush, like that return plane waiting for us at 4 a.m.! However, a few moments were dedicated to us by obligatorily visiting! “Ground Zero and adjacent places.”
The thing most impressed?
“The skyscrapers. I understand the ultra-modern city but at times I was suffocating feeling like a number and not a human person. The search for ‘green’ for me at some point became vital by finding suitable spaces. As for food, I personally love light and dietary dishes that you can hardly find from them. Obesity is a phenomenon that continues to be highly visible and, in my opinion, they should expand good nutrition campaigns, consequently lowering health care costs, which are very high by them.”
Spoken of a reality she knows well. We close by asking her what fascination is for her.
“The interiority of the person. It is not for sale and cannot be bought.”
Blame the chromosomes?
“Yes, of our unique and unrepeatable DNA.”
They say of her.
“That I am considered the icon of Italian men’s tailoring having worked for Brioni, Piattelli, Zegna, Corneliani, Canali, Stefano Ricci and others.”
Currently?
“Philippe Plein Billionaire, Onitsuka Tiger.”
Can I ask you an indiscreet question?
“Say!”
In its being so composed as well as extremely sophisticated by virtue of this change of dress as well, it reminds us of Father Ralph De Bricassart.
A pause and.
“That Irish priest protagonist in ‘Thorn Birds’?”
That’s right! I wonder how many ‘Maggies’ he must have stolen the heart of!
The article The White Robe: interview with Massimo Gradini comes from TheNewyorker.
