Interview with Enzo Scalabrino, Sales Manager of DRAGO SPA.
Sometimes in Chișinău, things happen that seem straight out of a film about the beauty of craftsmanship. The National Museum of History suddenly turned into a small Neapolitan street - filled with the hands of artisans, the rustle of fabrics, and the atmosphere of Italian elegance.
This Sartoria Deluxe Creative exhibition became possible thanks to the brand Sandro Livv and Alexandru Cornicel, who invited masters of sartorial ateliers to Moldova. Suits were not being sold here. Instead, people were being taught to look at fabric and understand that behind it lie decades of tradition and labor.
Among the guests was Enzo Scalabrino - a man who has been selling DRAGO SPA fabrics worldwide for over thirty years, while also lecturing students at the Textile University in Biella. Four salespeople, 81 countries - and one manager who brings it all together.
Enzo, thank you for making time for me! Let’s start simple. How should I introduce you, and what do you do?
I’m Enzo Scalabrino, Sales Manager of DRAGO SPA. It’s a house with half a century of history, and over the years it has managed to remain faithful to tradition while keeping pace with the times. We produce fabrics of exceptionally high quality - made of pure wool, as well as blended with noble fibers such as cashmere, linen, and silk. These fabrics are valued in many corners of the world: today we already sell them in 81 countries.
My work is tied to constant travel, but that’s precisely what allows me to feel the pulse of different cultures. And I also enjoy sharing my experience with students at the Textile University in Biella, where I lecture.
Tell me, how was the Drago brand born?
The company was founded in 1973 by Mr. Umberto and Mrs. Laura. It’s a classic example of an Italian family tradition: today, their son Paolo continues the business, and the third generation - his son Filippo - is already involved in management as well.
We are located in the Biella region, which you could call the textile heart of Italy. Within just a few dozen kilometers are concentrated the largest factories, and that is what creates the unique ecosystem that sustains our craft.
The world loves stories: fabrics for royalty, suits for celebrities. Do you have anything like that?
To be honest, we’ve never built our communication around big names. We take pride in something else: real tailors work with our fabrics - in Naples, in Korea, across Europe. For us, it matters that artisans trust Drago and choose our materials. And, let’s admit, there’s a certain strength in the fact that just four salespeople handle 81 countries. That’s both humility and pride at the same time.
How long have you personally been with the company?
My first period at Drago began in 1994 and lasted for more than ten years. Then I left for other companies, to gain new experience and broaden my horizons. A few years ago, I came back - and I consider that return very meaningful. I came back to the place where I feel at home.
I can’t help but note your wonderful suit. Tell me, what is your favorite fabric color?
For me, the undisputed leader has always been dark blue. It’s universal, noble, and at the same time endlessly deep. The second color is beige - especially one particular shade, Hermali beige. Unfortunately, it was recently discontinued, but for me it remains a symbol of elegance.
As for trends, in recent years green has become particularly popular - clients appreciate its freshness and modernity.
Do you think this trend will change soon?
Fashion is always movement. Let me give you an example: for a long time Brunello Cucinelli worked with light, neutral shades, but now they are turning more and more toward rich, bright colors. I think this direction will soon become noticeable for other manufacturers as well.
Enzo, what would you like to emphasize as we wrap up our conversation?
I wouldn’t go so far as to say we’re the best. But I can confidently say: we consistently rank among the top three or four fabric producers in the world. For us, it’s not only about quality, but also about constant development. The next goal is to reach 100 countries. And I sincerely hope that clients will continue to find joy in working with our fabrics.




