My Favourite Things

I’m a lover of jazz. There’s something soothing about it, and never not fits the moment. To think that a Broadway classic like “My Favourite Things” has lasted 60 years and still feels relevant. As I’m in a light mood today, I thought I’d share a bit of my own personal affections in life – inspired by this timeless classic. They’re all simple luxuries that I wouldn’t be able to live without.

#1: FEELING THE DEW ON MY FEET

Whether it’s summer or winter: whenever I’m at home, there isn’t a morning where I don’t walk barefoot through the garden in the direction of the pool house. My feet touch the grass, I’m in contact with nature. Near the pool house, we’ve created this little oasis where I can quietly prepare for the day ahead of me. I relax, exercise and meditate

#2: DRIVING MY CAR

During a road trip, for example. No one on the road to disturb you, closed from the world with time to think about what has been and what is to come.

#3: HANDMADE DETAILS

On a tailored suit or a shirt for example. Just the idea that they’re present means that what I’m wearing can never completely be the same as what someone else is wearing. But this doesn’t limit itself to sartorial dressing: tailor made furniture, watches, even art.

#4: GETTING BREAKFAST AND A NEWSPAPER FOR MY WIFE ON A SATURDAY MORNING

#5: ORDERING MY FIXED MENU IN A CIPRIANI RESTAURANT

I travel a lot, but there isn’t quite a restaurant like Cipriani’s. They can be found all over the world, and they always have a long table waiting for me for when I invite a group of kindred spirits.

Never will I miss out on the Burrata, nor will I refrain from ordering the prosciutto, and lots of piccata al limone.Perhaps trivial: I rarely eat desert, but how can one say no to their vanilla meringue or vanilla flavoured ice cream with cracked nuts.

#6: A STROLL THROUGH THE CITY

Preferably in the morning with my wife Isabelle. Whether we are in Knokke, Miami or anywhere else, I enjoy it immensely.

#7: SOMETHING IMPERFECT

A small imperfect detail can make the difference. And don’t change that: “L'imperfection fait la perfection” is somewhat of a life motto of mine. I find it incredibly important to not take myself too seriously.

I’ve had the good fortune that, throughout my existence as the Flying Tailor, I have gotten in contact with many people from all over the world. And especially when someone has a great story to tell, and share a passion for life and work, I get a big boost. I try to enjoy those moments as much as I possibly can!

Notes