Marco De Vincenzo
Advice on life and style from the Etro designer, from the one trend he avoids to his biggest vice.
Which song could you listen to over and over again?
“Dreams” by The Cranberries. Whenever I listen [to it], I remember something beautiful from my childhood.
What’s the secret to a good first date?
Meet after a normal day, in a normal outfit. If you wait for the perfect look, or to find the perfect things to say, it will be a disaster.
Which film should I watch this weekend?
I’m obsessed with cartoons and Snow White always inspires me.
The best way to get over a broken heart?
Friendship. Turn to someone who can make you smile.
Tell me your biggest vice.
Two pieces of dark chocolate in the evening. I can’t sleep without it.
Which young designer are you most excited about?
Luca Magliano. I know the difficulties of creating an Italian brand from nothing. Magliano is doing something very interesting and important.
What should I look for when choosing a bag?
More easily than with clothes, it’s a chance to go out of your comfort zone. Choose something beautiful and eccentric – why not?
And one trend to avoid?
People think sneakers work with every outfit, but they can destroy them.
How do I spend 24 hours in Sicily?
Explore Palermo and lose yourself in the little streets.
Your beauty product holy grail?
Moroccan argan oil is the only skincare I do.
What’s been your greatest extravagance?
I feel extravagant every time I forget to be Marco who works in fashion.
Describe your signature scent.
I love the smell of linden trees in Sicily, but unfortunately no one has made it a scent yet.
Name an Italian dish everyone should master.
Parmigiana.
Your favorite purchase?
Two white ceramic Bambi sculptures. When I started working, I felt ready to buy something I didn’t need, just because it was beautiful. They represent my growth.
What’s on your nightstand?
A friend of mine gave me an Emily Dickinson poetry book before I left Sicily. I open it like a Bible; I can find something inspiring and important on every page.
What can we all do to create a greener world?
Simple things. Every time I go back to Sicily I clean the beach in front of my parents’ house.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Every flea market. When in Rome, I go to Porta Portese.
Share your focus when designing Etro fall/winter 2023.
It’s a celebration of the dress!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Be authentic, feel authentic and stay authentic despite the pressures of the system – especially if you work in fashion. Never forget your roots.
This article was originally published on British Vogue.
