Prada, an iconic name in the world of luxury fashion, has a rich history and a legacy that spans over a century. Over the years, Prada has evolved into a global phenomenon, here are ten fascinating facts about Prada's history that you may not know.
1. Founded in Milan
Prada was founded in 1913 by Mario Prada and his brother Martino as Fratelli Prada, a leather goods shop in Milan. The first store opened in the prestigious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where they sold bags, trunks, and travel accessories.
2. Royal Recognition
In 1919, Prada's exceptional quality caught the Italian Royal House's attention, making Prada its official supplier. This recognition allowed Prada to display the House of Savoy coat of arms and knotted rope design in its trademark triangle logo, enhancing its reputation and symbolizing its connection to Italian aristocracy.
3. A Woman at the Helm
Mario Prada believed that women had no place in the workplace. However, when his son showed no interest in the family business, it was passed on to his daughter, Luisa Prada. She managed the company for 20 years until her daughter, Miuccia Prada, took over in the 1970s, revolutionizing the brand.
4. Miuccia Prada's Unlikely Path
Before joining the family business, Miuccia Prada studied political science at the University of Milan and mime at the Piccolo Teatro. She was also a member of the Italian Communist Party and involved in the women's rights movement. Her unconventional background brought a unique perspective to the fashion industry.
5. The Iconic Nylon Bag
In 1984, Miuccia Prada introduced the first product made of nylon, the Vela backpack. Made from water-resistant nylon called "Pocono," originally used for military tents, this bag challenged traditional luxury materials and became one of Prada's signature pieces. In 2020, Prada introduced the Re-nylon Re-edition, using sustainable materials like recycled fishing nets and industrial plastic waste.
6. Revolutionizing Ready-to-Wear
With the encouragement of her husband and business partner, Patrizio Bertelli, Miuccia Prada launched Prada's first ready-to-wear collection in 1988. The collection, characterized by minimalism and a predominance of black and brown, was a stark contrast to the vibrant colors of the 80s and set the tone for future collections.
7. Expanding Horizons
Prada's expansion into menswear began in the Spring-Summer 1998 season, introducing the "monochrome look" characterized by minimalism and a neutral color palette. Prada Linea Rossa, launched in 1997, also merged streetwear with luxury, using innovative materials like nylon.
8. Fondazione Prada
In 1995, Prada and Bertelli co-founded Fondazione Prada, an institution dedicated to contemporary art and culture. Since 2015, it has had a permanent facility in Milan, further cementing Prada's influence beyond fashion.
9. Collaborations and Innovations
Prada's success can be attributed to its creative collaborations and embrace of digital platforms. The brand's storytelling, innovation, and social and environmental responsibility have helped it stand out in the competitive luxury fashion industry.
10. Recent Milestones
In 2020, Belgian designer Raf Simons joined Prada as co-creative director, working alongside Miuccia Prada. Their first joint Spring/Summer 2021 collection redefined the Prada essence, blending 1950s accents, sportswear pieces, and the iconic Nylon material. In 2022, Prada's Re-nylon Re-edition 2000 and 2005 mini bag was named Lyst’s ‘Handbag of the Year’.
