As part of this initiative, we spoke with Luigi Cordone, the third generation behind the Cordone 1956 brand, who visited Moldova for the second time. His family has been making shirts by hand, one at a time, since 1956 in Abruzzo. Their philosophy is simple yet rare in today’s world: slow luxury tailoring, luxury born from patience, precision, and respect for the client.

“A good shirt is seen in the eyes of the one who presents it,” says Luigi Cordone.

How did you find this visit to Moldova?

This is my second time here. The first time I participated in an event at Submisura, and I remember the enthusiasm back then. This time, I felt it again, perhaps even stronger. These were intense days, filled with curious and welcoming people. I truly believe there is a real path of collaboration between Italy and Moldova.

How was the meeting at the Technical University of Moldova?

It went very well. The students showed genuine interest, not just polite attention. We spoke about our process and the philosophy of our brand, but what stood out most was the practical workshop, where we demonstrated the details of how a shirt is made. I was impressed to see so many students stay until the very end, watching carefully and asking questions. For me, that is a clear sign of a true desire to learn. If we keep working in this direction, I am confident that excellent results will come.

Do you see the possibility of an exchange between Moldova and Italy for training young professionals?

Absolutely, and I think it is essential. Exchanges are necessary. If Moldovan students could come to Italy for apprenticeships in our workshops, it would be a tremendous experience. For us, it would be an honor to see their passion for craftsmanship. Passing on knowledge and maintaining high standards is only possible by involving the younger generation. Without young people, there is no future, not for Italy and not for Moldova.

How can someone tell the difference between a true handmade shirt and an industrial one?

You can sense it even before putting it on. You see it in the way the master presents the garment: if his eyes shine, then it was created with love and passion. On the technical side, the differences are clear. We use a unique sleeve construction with a shifted seam, something very few still make today. We sew with a higher stitch density, finish details by hand, create small gathers at the shoulder, hand-sewn buttonholes, and use mother-of-pearl buttons. All these details together create a sartorial product that is entirely different from an industrial shirt.

What do you consider the secret of your success?

I don’t like to use the word “success,” as I don’t see it as a final destination. I think the strength of our company lies in determination and in the love for what we do. I set clear goals for myself and work with all my energy to reach them. But at the heart of it all is passion for craftsmanship and the belief that we must share the value of Made in Italy with the world. For me, it is not just a label, but a responsibility: to show what quality, tradition, and respect for the client truly mean.

What advice would you give to young people who want to build a career in your field?

First of all, don’t expect quick results. In our industry, the path is not easy, and there are many obstacles. The mistake is to give up after one or two years. Real results only come with time. True quality is not seen after six months, but when clients return to you a year or two later. That’s when you know your work has borne fruit. The key is patience, determination, and belief in what you do. With these, extraordinary results can be achieved.