Dapper Vionnet chairman Matteo Marzotto opened the doors to the brand's Paris showroom, affording a preview of the geometrically attuned fall 2011 collection. Having helmed the revitalization of Valentino during his tenure before stepping down in 2008, the Italian textile scion subsequently purchased Vionnet from Arnaud de Lummen (who relaunched the house in 2006 after six decades of dormancy). With Prada alum Rodolfo Paglialunga as creative director, the brand has won celebrity fans such as Carey Mulligan and Marion Cotillard, both devotees of the designer's updated twist on Vionnet's exquisite draping techniques. Originally opened in 1912 by Madeleine Vionnet, the couture house was instrumental in steering women away from the constraints of corsets, leaving an enduring legacy that includes the bias-cut dress and body-skimming provocations. As committed to fine living as he is to hard work, Marzotto outlines his ideal day.
Where would you wake up?
The Hong-Kong Mandarin Oriental
What’s for breakfast?
Fresh fruit, pine nuts, linseeds, Parma ham, ricotta and olive oil.
Where would you travel and how?
By helicopter to Capalbio, Tuscany, and to Scandinavia (but only during the first week in August).
What’s on the itinerary?
A 60km cycle on an Italian-made De Rosa bike over steep winding roads.
What’s for dinner?
Roast Chicken or risotto alla Milanese with friends.
What are you wearing?
A suit made by my loyal 80-year-old tailor from Bologna, Signor Carli.