Back to the city with Vincenzo Sansonne: a conversation about basketball, everyday life and the influences behind his approach to Giannetto Portofino.
Q. Which interests outside fashion influence your creative eye? What memories or experiences reflect these connections? Tell us about your passion for basketball.
A. Basketball has been a passion of mine for a long time, and it has also shaped the way I see things. I enjoy the rhythm of the game, the energy and the ability to make decisions in a matter of seconds.
What I appreciate most is the relationship between the individual and the team. Everyone has their own style, but playing well means knowing how to exchange ideas and work together. It is something I recognise in my work, too: having your own vision is important, but knowing how to listen to others is just as essential. Basketball has taught me to be determined, to respect the rules and not to give up when faced with difficulties.
Q. What connection do you see between basketball, urban life and personal style, through movement, confidence and individuality?
A. For me, basketball and the city are closely connected. Local courts are meeting places where different people share the same passion, and everyone finds their own way of playing. It is a spontaneous environment, where character and the way people come together matter.
The same is true of personal style. The way we dress says something about who we are and how we experience the city. I like clothes that allow freedom of movement and make you feel at ease, without necessarily having to follow the latest trends.
In style, as in basketball, it is the person who makes the difference: you can start with the same foundations as everyone else, but it is your interpretation of them that makes you recognisable.
Q. How do your passions translate into the creative and design decisions behind Giannetto Portofino?
A. My passions help me look beyond the world of fashion and better understand how people, their habits and the way they dress are changing.
At Giannetto Portofino, I look for a balance between elegance and practicality. I am interested in creating pieces with an identity of their own that are also easy to wear in everyday life. Basketball brings an awareness of movement and comfort, while the city gives me ideas for combining classic elements with more contemporary details.
I believe a garment should be beautiful, but it should also work in real life. That is why I value the quality of materials, attention to detail and the ability to combine each piece in different ways, without losing the brand’s style.
Q. What does your everyday wardrobe say about your interpretation of contemporary Italian style?
A. My wardrobe reflects my understanding of Italian style: quality pieces, simple lines and attention to detail. I like to alternate classic pieces with sportier, more informal elements, finding a balance that works in everyday life.
I do not like to overcomplicate things. I prefer a few well-chosen pieces that are easy to combine and retain their character over time. For me, it is important to feel at ease while still taking care of how I look.
I believe this is precisely what contemporary Italian style is about: starting with tradition, but interpreting it in a personal way. It is not about dressing to attract attention, but about choosing what truly represents us. Ultimately, the best style is the one that comes naturally.
