Trendy Italian brand Prada

The Italian brand Prada has been specialising in women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, perfumes and furniture for over a century. Each item marked by this brand is a real masterpiece.

Start

In 1913, Mario Prada started to create exclusive handbags and luggage aimed at the vip-consumer. Walrus leather, tortoise shell, python skin, rare woods, semi-precious stones, suede and other rare materials were sold in his own shop, which opened in Milan. Mario’s brother Martino became the right-hand man of the company. The boutique’s name, Fratelli Prada, translates as ‘Prada Brothers’.

Maria Prada

Mario Prada passed away in 1952 leaving the family business to his daughter. Maria ensured the internationalisation of the fashion house and kept the momentum going for a decade and a half.

The decline in popularity of Prada products came at the end of the 70’s. At this time the attention of many consumers switched to comfortable to use suitcases on wheels, which competed with luxury, but less convenient products of Prada.

It was Mario Prada’s granddaughter Miuccia Prada who saved the day, redefining the concept and helping the fashion house regain the top spot.

Brand promotion

In 1978 Miuccia and Patrizio Bertelli, a leather goods entrepreneur, met and joined forces. Ten years later the partners married.

Bringing in new designers allowed the company to offer unique handbags and backpacks made of nylon parachute fabric decorated with the recognisable Prada triangle.

The first footwear collection was launched in 1983, followed by a debut apparel line in 1989. The products were strikingly different from those offered by rival firms. Despite the luxurious and unique designs, the lack of flamboyance and sex appeal did not appeal to the younger generation. To reach a wider audience, in 1993 Miuccia launched Miu Miu, a complementary brand with a larger colour palette, an abundance of jewellery and bolder designs.

The house of Prada also underwent an interesting change with the introduction of sunglasses with thicker, square frames.

Further chronology of events

1997 saw the launch of a menswear collection comprising clothing, shoes and bags.

2003- Launch of a fragrance line with a complex, fresh, tart scent.

2006, with the release of the movie, The Devil Wears Prada.

2012 – Creation of colourful shoes with 50s-inspired decorations: wings of a Cadillac and flames. Award for Best Outfit in The Great Gatsby.

2013 – Anne Hathaway’s appearance at the Oscars in a collectible, light pink dress.

2014, the Oscars with 14 actresses wearing Prada clothes.

And, today many celebrities, including the Dukes of Sussex and Cambridge, prefer Prada products, with their understated, sophisticated style. The impeccable products are perfect for social occasions.