For 25 years, Italian fashion designer Brunello Cucinelli has been making some of the world’s finest cashmere clothing with a refined yet casual aristocracy-meets- the Ivy League feel. He has also been running his business with an eye toward philanthropy and ethical business practices.

Employing a good percentage of the locals, his designs are made in rural Italy in the village of Solomeo.  Brunello treats his employees with respect and values each of their opinions. There are no hierarchies and the employees do not clock in (they even have their own keys to the premises).

His ultimate goal is to have “a form of modern capitalsim where profit is used to improve the condition of human life.”

The brand supports the Ale Foundation by raising money through events and activities throughout the year. The Ale Foundation is a non-profit working toward improving the lives of children in need.

Cucinelli has boutiques in SoHo, the Hamptons and Beverly Hills. His collections can also be found at Bergdorf and Saks.