Gianni Agnelli (1921-2003), was an Italian industrialist and principal shareholder of Fiat. As a public figure, Agnelli is also known worldwide for his impeccable, slightly eccentric fashion sense, which has influenced both Italian and international men’s fashion.
Gianni Agnelli based his style on a spectacular line of bespoke Caraceni suits and oft-imitated personal tricks. He wore his wristwatch over his cuff, wore his tie askew, and sported high brown hiking boots under a bespoke suit to suggest sprezzatura -- the Italian art of appearing not to care about one's appearance -- and to disconcert rivals. It worked.
Mr. Agnelli’s fashion sense stood out, even in a country like Italy, where dressing well and fashionably is generally perceived as very important. His style has inspired and influenced menswear throughout the years, in Italy and around the world. In his retirement speech, Milanese fashion designer Nino Cerruti named Agnelli as one of his biggest inspirations, amongst James Bond and John F. Kennedy
