Gentleman Magazine Profiles 25 Influential Men
Gentleman magazine has celebrated its 25th anniversary by profiling a group of influential men who have shaped culture, industry, and style. The list features a diverse range of leaders from fashion, business, sports, and the arts.
A Vision of the Modern Gentleman
The men profiled are described as entrepreneurs, stylists, designers, architects, philanthropists, athletes, shipowners, and chefs. Above all, they are characterized as curious individuals capable of looking beyond the present to imagine the future. Through their passions, ideas, and work, they have helped the magazine interpret and explore a constantly evolving world for a quarter of a century.
The figures featured include prominent names such as David Lauren, chief branding and innovation officer at Ralph Lauren, and Diego Della Valle, president and CEO of the Tod’s Group. Bernard Arnault, chairman and CEO of LVMH, and Giorgio Armani are also among the honorees. The list extends to include figures like François-Henri Pinault of Kering.
Voices of Experience and Innovation
Each honoree shares a unique perspective on success, elegance, and the future of their respective fields. David Lauren reflects on the enduring nature of the American Dream, calling it a “global melting pot.” Diego Della Valle emphasizes the continued importance of human craftsmanship in an age of artificial intelligence, stating that a product must “surprise” and be realized by “the hands of real people.”
Bernard Arnault explains how LVMH built a common identity for its diverse brands through a series of patronage actions, driven by his passion for the blend of art and business. Giorgio Armani defines the modern gentleman as a man who possesses “the gift of kindness, spontaneity, the right measure, and the refusal of ostentation.” He seeks men who dress elegantly but with a sense of ease.
Patrizio Bertelli, president of the Prada Group and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, shares his philosophy on achievement. He states that the time spent is not as important as the persistence in reaching a goal. He emphasizes not giving up until the intent is successfully achieved.
Alfonso Dolce, CEO of Dolce&Gabbana, discusses his mission to pass on the craft. He focuses on training young people from schools to creatives and top managers.
Industry Leaders and Their Philosophies
Massimo Doris, CEO of Banca Mediolanum, draws a parallel between cycling and business. He loves the climb, viewing it as an adventure and a conquest. He stresses that an entrepreneur must row against the current, as stopping means falling behind, especially with the shorter lifecycle of ideas, products, and services today.
François-Henri Pinault, president and CEO of Kering, explains his approach to luxury. He says his choices are guided by the offer, not the market, as in luxury the offer creates demand. He believes a successful brand must suggest ideas and desires through creativity, not ask what people want.
Reflections on Success and Teamwork
Antoine Arnault distinguishes between leaders who protect what they have built and challengers who focus on what remains to be invented. Challengers question habits, act faster, and remain inflexible on execution.
