The History Of The Brand: Prada

Prada’s story is one of elegance, innovation and a passion for refinding luxury. For more than a century, Prada has shaped the very essence of Italian luxury - an exquisite blend of craftsmanship, intellect and style. From its early beginnings as a small leather goods boutique in Milan to become one of the most influential forces in fashion. Prada’s journey is one of the most revolutionary designs.

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Milan: Where The Prada Story Begins

The Prada story began in 1913, when brothers Mario & Martino Prada founded Fratelli Prada, a boutique nestled within Milan’s grand Galleria Vittorio Emanule II. The brothers specialized in fine leather trunks, handbags and travel accessories. Crafted with precious, artistry and unmistakable Italian touch. 

Their commitment to quality soon captured the attention of Italy’s elite. In 1919, Prada was honored with the title of Official Supplier to the Italian royal Household. Alongside this royal recognition, the brand was granted permission to include the House of Savoy’s coat of arms and knotted rope motif in this logo - a detail that remains central to Prada’s identity today.

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A New Era: The Woman Behind Prada

When Mario Prada’s son chose not to join the business, leadership passed to his daughter Luisa Prada, who took over the brand for over two decades. But it was Luisa’s daughter, Miuccia Prada, who would completely redefine the house’s destiny.

In 1978, Miuccia took the leadership - bringing intellect, creativity and a daring sense of modernity. With a PhD in political science and a background in performing arts, she approached fashion as both philosophy and art. Her vision: luxury that whispers. 

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The Miuccia Prada Revolution 

In the 1980s, Miuccia introduced an unexpected material - industrial nylon, once used for army tents. She transformed it into high fashion with the launch of the Prada Vela Backpack in 1985. Sleek, understated, functional, it became an instant symbol of intellectual chic. 

Together with her husband and CEO Patrizio Bertelli, Miuccia turned Prada into a global powerhouse - combining avant-garde creativity with sharp business strategy. 

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Reinventing Modern Luxury

In 1988, Prada debuted its first ready-to-wear collection, redefining elegance with minimalist cuts, muted tones, and an almost architectural simplicity. Where others embraced extravagance, Miuccia celebrated intellect and restraint — giving rise to the iconic concept of “ugly chic.”

Nearly a decade later, the launch of Linea Rossa brought a sporty, futuristic twist to the house’s aesthetic — merging technology and style in a way far ahead of its time.

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Prada Today

Under the co-creative direction of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, the house continues to evolve with a perfect balance of heritage and innovation. Since joining forces in 2020, the duo has blended Miuccia’s intellectual elegance with Raf’s modern precision, creating collections that explore contrast and duality — classic and contemporary, beauty and imperfection, intellect and emotion.

Reinterpreting Prada’s iconic codes — from sharp tailoring to the signature nylon — they shape a vision of luxury that is thoughtful, relevant, and quietly powerful!

With love,

Lilian

Sources: 
Glamobserver.com
Mygemma.com
Quartr.com
Margerets.com