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Meet Alexander Weitl (@weitlinger), HR Manager from Munich, Germany.
Alexander, what does it mean for you to be a Modern Gentleman?
I believe that a significant aspect of being a modern gentleman is to be considerate and compassionate towards other people. In this hectic and fast-paced world, we often find ourselves in stressful situations where it’s easy to lose our cool. To counter this, I make a conscious effort to take a deep breath first and treat others with kindness and respect. Giving undivided attention to the person I am interacting with is also crucial in a time dominated by constant distractions like our phones. Therefore, whenever I engage in a conversation, I ensure that the other person has my full attention.
How do you define your style?
I would describe my style as classic yet relaxed, encompassing a wide range of attire from t-shirts, faded jeans, and sneakers to double-breasted suits and everything in between. I always aim to dress in a rather reserved manner, avoiding any logos or flashy lettering on my clothes.
When it comes to style, where do you mostly get your inspiration from?
A big part of my inspiration of course comes from Instagram. There are a lot of guys out there with tremendous style – @wmbrownproject, @j.scottmarks, @benton.down, and @cuffnobreak to name just a few. Also, certain brands have a lot of influence on my style, for example, Anglo-Italian, Drake’s, or Junior’s. Last but not least I get my inspiration from (old) movies and shows, especially from the 80’s as well as vintage advertisements from brands like J.Crew.
What’s your personal style signifier?
I’m not sure if i have that one specific style signifier, but if you’d ask my fiance she would probably answer that it’s a classic white and blue striped OCBD.
What are your favorite wardrobe essentials?
The aforementioned OCBD in various colors, loafers (currently mostly oxblood-colored tassel loafers from Scarosso or classic G.H. Bass), and as soon – as the summer is over and the temperatures drop – a classic waxed jacket from Barbour.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
One of my main passions is cooking. I make an effort to cook for dinner and on the weekends as often as I can. I particularly enjoy trying out new recipes and exploring different cuisines, but my heart often leads me back to classic German or Italian dishes, likely stemming from my Italian heritage through my grandpa.
Another significant passion of mine is wine. During my university years, I worked part-time in a wine store/wine school, which sparked my interest in winemaking and tasting. I became fascinated by the wide range of taste notes that wines can develop. To nurture my interest, I attend tasting classes and enjoy hosting tastings with friends.
Lastly, one could say that I have a general passion for quality in all aspects of life. Whether it’s a piece of clothing, furniture, a book, or food, I’m always drawn to items that are handcrafted and well-made. I appreciate things that reflect the care and effort put into creating them.
What does your ideal Sunday look like?
My ideal Sunday begins with sleeping in until at least 9 am (considering I wake up at 5 am during weekdays, 9 am feels like a luxury). I kickstart the day with a leisurely and lavish breakfast, complete with poached eggs, a steaming cup of coffee, and some fresh orange juice. Following this, I envision spending most of the day outdoors, enjoying the company of friends. As the day winds down, I relish a homecooked Sunday roast for dinner, capping off the evening with a delightful glass of wine.
Describe an interesting trip you have taken and tell us what’s the next destination on your bucket list.
Last year, I visited New York City to see a good friend of mine. It marked my first time in the United States and my first experience in such a large city, making it both exciting and somewhat overwhelming for me. The next destination on my bucket list is Vietnam, where I will be going for my honeymoon this fall. I’m eagerly looking forward to my first trip to Southeast Asia and feeling truly excited about the adventure ahead.
Tell us what can never be missing in your liquor cabinet.
Of course, I always make sure to be stocked up with the ingredients for a Negroni or an Americano. So, I never run out of Campari, Antica Formula, and Gin. As one of my current favorite drinks is a Sazerac, I also ensure to always have Rye Whiskey at home.
What are your three favorite books?
Living to Tell the Tale by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
On the Road by Jack Kerouac
What are your three favorite movies?
Good Will Hunting, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and All the President’s Men.
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