A CHIPSHOP boss hopes his latest idea – the Italian tartan – checks out
The Italian government has given Michael Lemetti's project full backing and, if his ambitious plans come off, a galaxy of Italian stars will be showcasing clothes designed in Camelon.
The 46-year-old businessman is seeking famous models for his kilts, golf trousers, scarves, ties and mini-skirts.
Michael, who runs Lemetti's in Main Street with brother Joe, hopes pop megastar Madonna will be joined by the likes of racing star Dario Franchitti, the AC Milan football team and Italian President Silvio Berlusconi in modelling his tartan gear.
He said: "I got the idea after I was in New York in my kilt. Everyone talks to you in a kilt and I thought it would be great to have an Italian kilt to celebrate two great countries.
"The Italian consulate hopes it will get a big response in Italy and I hope Silvio Berlusconi, who is a bit of a flamboyant character, will adopt it.
"Madonna's maiden name is Ciccone and I want to send something to her because she's been a great ambassador for Scotland recently. And I'm going to speak to Dario Franchitti's mum, who occasionally helps out in the Broadway Cafe in Falkirk."
Michael, a third-generation Scottish/Italian, has secured design approval from the Scottish Tartans Authority for the new Italian tartan.
The innovative design features the famous green, white and red of the Italian flag against the backdrop of the "azzuro" blue worn by the country's football team.
It is the authority's latest addition, joining designs for Freemasons, the FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department.
The Scots and Italians have enjoyed a close relationship since the aggressive reception given to the Romans.
And Michael, whose family moved to Camelon from Tuscany in the 1890s, hopes his tartan will further strengthen Scottish/Italian links – especially in the run up to the forthcoming World Cup qualification matches between the two.
He said: "I am a proud Scot/Italian and this tartan celebrates the strong links between the two countries. My heart wants Scotland to win in the football but I think Italy will triumph."
Michael added that he hopes to gift some tartan to his favourite player, Rino Gattuso – the former Rangers star – and the rest of the team when AC Milan visit Celtic Park in the Champions League.
Dr Andrea Macchioni, the Italian consul general in Scotland, said: "A national tartan is one of the most important symbols of the integration of the Italian community in Scotland. Many Italians here who feel deeply Scottish have felt the need for their own tartan and I will certainly be wearing some item made from it."
brian.marjoribanks@falkirkherald.co.uk