Johnny Manglani, the founder of Uomo Group, tells Melissa Gail Sing about his direction for the business and shares his personal style tips.  

Style-conscious men in Singapore have Johnny Manglani to thank for indulging their sartorial passion with esteemed Italian labels such as Stefano Ricci, Brioni, Santoni, Zilli and Billionaire Italian Couture (which opened in Singapore this month)—all known for their luxurious, tailor-made creations. The founder of Uomo Group, who has dressed diplomats and expats in Eastern Europe, has made a name for himself in Russia where he has 12 boutiques including the made-in-Italy menswear concept called Uomo Collezioni. Here in Singapore, his empire has been quickly expanding since 2010. He already has a foothold in Macau and has his eyes set on further expansion in Asia.

Put his business success together with his jetsetting lifestyle, homes in five countries, his love for cigars and steaks, and the joys of working with his wife and daughter, and one can say that the 49-year-old is enjoying the good life. He tells Melissa Gail Sing about his direction for the business and shares his personal style tips. 

What was the overriding vision for Uomo Group when it started in 1998?
Russians became quite wealthy very rapidly in the 1990s. Clients started demanding better quality than what Hong Kong had to offer, so in 1997, when Hong Kong went back to China, we decided to create a “Made in Italy Only” concept called Uomo Collezioni. We initially opened one luxury boutique where discerning clients could shop in comfort and privacy in the Personal Shopping Suites of the boutique. We made sure clients got the best quality and service, and this turned out to be a winning formula. Never mind that in 1998, Russia defaulted on its debt obligations and the situation was tense for a whip. By 1999, business was booming. Today we have 11 boutiques in Moscow and one in St Petersburg. In 2008, Russia was hit by the global financial crisis, so we decided to diversify to Asia. From Day One up till today, we have always had a boutique mentality and will continue to have it no matter how many boutiques we open. Personal attention to clients’ needs and demands will always get a priority at Uomo Group. 

Billionaire Couture Macau

What’s new for the business?
We are inaugurating Billionaire Italian Couture in Marina Bay Sands in September. Its creator, Flavio Briatore will be in Singapore for the opening. Besides that, we are going to have many trunk shows in September and October. This is a great way for our clients to meet Italian masters directly. We will also continue to grow in Macau where we opened Asia’s first Billionaire Italian Couture.

Any plans to put out something for the women in Asia?
We are a very focused company and luxury menswear is our forte.

You’ve been in the fashion trade since you were 17. Are there any aspects of it you dislike?
If there were, I would have quit. I don't think it would be a big challenge to be successful in other businesses. Having started early offers one the luxury of retiring early but this never crosses my mind.

What’s your proudest moment or biggest achievement?
Getting a knighthood from Italy (in 2010, he was given the Cavaliere dell’Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana [Knighthood of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic] signed by President Giorgio Napolitano and then-Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi for promoting Italian fashion in Russia), besides the day I met my wife, and the days my children were born. At the moment, I am very happy that I persuaded my daughter Anita to work for the family (she handles Uomo Group’s public relations and advertising department in Singapore). 

Tell me about your family. How do you like to spend time together?
My wife, our two daughters, Anita, 23, and Dasha, 16, and I do at least four family holidays a year. Our vacations usually involve the beach, skiing, health and friends. My wife and Anita are also very much involved in the business. This keeps the family together.

Relate a low point in life and the lessons you learnt from that.
Life is full of lessons and challenges, but what does not kill you makes you strong. However, I do wish that my father were still alive as he always enjoyed visiting Singapore and I am sure he would be proud to see us here. My mother spends time between Finland and Singapore, which makes me very happy.

What’s your philosophy/personal maxim in life? Or a favourite quote?
I learnt the quote “No Problem” when I was in Jamaica during my younger years. Years ago, I also always used to say, “Do today what you have to do tomorrow, and do now what you have to do today”. However, I am not sure if I can apply that now, with my very busy life. 

What’s luxury to you?
Being able to afford whatever one wants.

What’s your biggest indulgence?
I am a simple man with few needs, just kidding! I love to travel with friends to watch important football, tennis and cricket matches. Besides that, steaks and cigars are things I enjoy very much. However, my doctor advises me to cut down on both, so I feel guilty whenever I indulge in them. 

Johnny Manglani's top 5 tips for stylish dressing

1. Clothes communicate power First impressions are largely based on appearance and your choice of dress plays a key role in how you are perceived.

2. Quality counts Pick the best you can afford when it comes to suiting, as your clothing fit, form and fabric will speak volumes.

3. Take your cue Look to your sartorial icons for tips to get ahead in the style stakes. Dress for who you aspire to be.

4. Consistency breeds trust Adopting a consistent approach to the way you dress communicates a sense of stability.

5. The devil is in the detailFinishing touches such as ties, pocket squares, cufflinks and socks all contribute to your image and are a subtle way of expressing your individuality in a conservative environment.

 

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