History Of Prada

The house of Prada came into significance because of its style and luxury that can be seen in its handbags and shoes. From making suitcases from walrus skins to exquisite waterproof handbags, Prada effortlessly managed the transition from the simple to the haute couture. However, the transition came from enormous financial difficulties and stiff competition from rival brands like Gucci. In addition, this change was brought about by none other than the granddaughter of the founder of Prada, Miuccia Prada, who literally turned the company upside down, making Prada a brand to be reckoned with. This is quite ironic as both the brothers, Mario Prada and Martino Prada, who founded the company, never allowed women in their enterprise. It was Mario’s daughter and later his granddaughter who is responsible for what Prada is today. Now, Prada is a class in itself. It’s designs combine the aesthetics of the working women, of women who are confident and all their creations spread across this message. To know more, read the article given below to on the history of Prada.

 

Prada was founded by two brothers, Mario Prada and Martino Prada, in the year 1913 in Milan, Italy. At first, it was primarily a leather goods shop. It sold leather products like steamer trunks and handbags.

 

The first successor was Mario’s daughter Luisia Prada, who ran it for 20 years. Then her daughter Miuccia Prada took over the company in 1978. It was then that Prada began manufacturing waterproof backpacks. On the advice of her business manager, Miuccia started implementing creativity onto the design. In 1979, her first set of backpacks and tote design was released. This design line became Prada’s first commercial hit.

 

This success was followed by the opening of a boutique in Milan in 1983, which resembled the original shop, but was very modern. In 1984, the nylon tote was released. Also in the same year, Prada started expanding across continental Europe by opening boutiques in Florence, Paris, Madrid, and New York. 1984 was also the year in which Prada released its shoe line. In 1985, Prada released a handbag that became a classic and established its signature style. No wonder, the Prada handbag became an overnight sensation.

 

Prada is credited with introducing dropped waistlines and narrow belts in fashion. This they introduced in their women’s ready-to-wear collection in 1989. Their styles – clean lines, opulent fabrics, and basic colors – became their signature. It is said that the designs from the House of Prada reflected the feminine worker aesthetic that distinguished it from other high fashion brands. Thus, the brand Prada came into being. During the nineties, the originality of the designs made Prada the most influential fashion houses. It became a symbol of status.

 

The styles were provocative yet simple. Its fabrics were mostly blacks, browns, and creams. This was accompanied by high-heeled shoes, thin leather belts and the classic handbag. To cater to the younger generation, Prada launched the clothing brand Miu Miu in 1992. Prada also holds a 10% stake at Gucci and as such, it is Gucci’s largest shareholder.

 

The numerous accolades that Prada received include the Council of Fashion Designers of America award in 1993 and 1995.