17 Questions to a well-dressed man: Sandro Dühnforth
Photo credit: Sandro Dühnforth
Sandro Dühnforth is the very first bespoke tailor we have in the series 17 questions to a well-dressed man. He runs his bespoke tailoring house in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe; Hamburg. Close to the famous Alster lake in an area where a lot of craftsman are following their passion and making beautiful things by hand. Sandro is beside a very good and passionate bespoke tailor also an ambassador for craftsmanship. With his association for bespoke tailors in Europe and organising events with various craftsmen in Hamburg he is really trying to get craftsmanship in the spotlights. And rightly so since craftsmanship is more important than ever in this digital era. If you are ever lucky enough to be in Hamburg, you shouldn’t miss out a visit to Sandro his bespoke tailoring house. He will be giving you a warm welcome and show you everything there is to learn about this beautiful crafts he masters. For now enjoy reading the answers he gave on the 17 questions to a well-dressed man.
What are you wearing today?
I am very casual today. I´m wearing mid-grey cashmere/cotton trousers of our own production in combination with a navy Johnston of Elgin – jumper, a white Emanuel Berg -shirt and a black/red/white Ascot – tie. The tie was a present of my dear friend Tim Mureau.
If you had to choose to spend money either on a suit or on a watch, what would you choose?
None of them I make the suits by myself and always wear the watch I inherited from my grandfather. I prefer to invest my money in good food, wine and cigars.
What jewellery could a man wear?
Of course, the common things like watch, ring and cufflinks. But sometimes I enjoy it to play with tie tack pins or sleeve holders.
Tie or a bowtie?
I feel comfortable with the tie. It’s kind of sad, that the tie is going to die in modern offices. A good tie is to a suit like a woman to man. You can live without it, but it does not make sense.
Do you remember your first jacket?
Unfortunately, I do. It was a burgundy jacket at my confirmation in the age of 14. Too wide, too long…. the worst design you could get in the 90’s.
What is your favourite watch?
Of course, my granddads watch. It’s a Roamer from the 60’s. But if I had to buy a new one, I would buy a Genesis-watch. A manufacture from Hamburg with a big heart for passion.
Fountain pen or ballpoint?
A fountain from my dear friend Stefan Fink. He produces fountains with rare kind of woods. I have the pleasure to have my new shop in his old shop.
Have you found the perfect garment yet?
No, it will never happen. The saddest situation on an expedition is when you arrive your destination. The time before is exciting. The time after is just thinking about the next destination.
Explain your biggest passion in one sentence?
CRAFT in every way!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Cigars, wine and good food. Or to say it shorter: life.
Who is the best dressed man in the world for you?
Bruce Boyer. Because he wears his garment with class and understatement. The most sartorial “idols” wear garments to impress or pretend. But when Mr.Boyer wears his garment you have the suggestion, that he simply he likes it and appreciate the craft behind.
The best book you ever read?
“Walden” of Henry David Thoreau. In the age of 15 this book was a game-changer for the young Sandro.
Which city should one go shopping?
First stop: London, second stop: New York, final destination: Hamburg
Tweed or flannel?
I could not live with only one these treasures. Okay, let’s say trousers in flannel and the jacket in a good Donegal. Sometimes a compromise makes the perfect match.
The most elegant restaurant in the world for you?
Not the most elegant, but the best mix of delicious food and exclusivity is for me “Benjamin’s” in New York. I had the best lamb ever in these holy halls of cuisine.
Describe your style in three words?
Different to others.
Best purchase you did in the last 6 months?
Not really a purchase, but my 3 months old baby son.