SAEDNEWS: Prada: The History and Evolution of Italy’s Iconic Luxury Fashion Brand
Prada is one of the most renowned and luxurious brands in the world of fashion. For decades, the designers and visionaries behind the Prada name have worked tirelessly to maintain the brand’s classic style while also infusing it with innovative ideas. This careful balance has kept Prada relevant over time—a secret to its longevity—and explains why, even today, Prada remains one of the most sought-after brands in the world.
The first Prada store opened in 1913 in the prestigious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy. At the time, Mario Prada, together with his brother Martino, launched a leather goods shop selling handbags, suitcases, and accessories. Prada was established as a family brand, founded by Mario Prada and his brother. After Mario’s brother joined, the brand became known as Fratelli Prada.
The brothers’ success grew quickly. By 1919, Prada became the official supplier to the Royal Palace of Italy. This distinguished recognition allowed Prada to design exclusive coats for the House of Savoy, one of Italy’s royal families. This milestone transformed Prada into a symbol of aristocracy in Italy and eventually a globally recognized luxury brand.
During this period, due to prevailing patriarchal norms, Mario Prada did not believe in women working outside the home, even barring female family members from joining the family business. Ironically, his only son showed no interest in the family trade. It was then that Luisa Prada, Mario’s daughter, took over the business, managing it successfully for nearly 20 years.
The first Prada products were travel bags and suitcases, which quickly became popular due to their high quality, though they were notably heavy. By 1919, just six years after its founding, Prada had become the primary supplier to the Italian royal family.
Miuccia Prada was born on May 10, 1949, in Milan, Italy. From a young age, she was passionate about fashion—a passion nurtured by her grandfather, Mario Prada, who had established the brand and specialized in leather bags and suitcases. After Miuccia took over, Prada began its journey toward becoming a luxury fashion brand for both men and women. Her early collection of black nylon backpacks and bags marked a turning point, establishing Prada’s distinctive identity. By 2005, Time magazine recognized Miuccia Prada as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
In the mid-1970s, Miuccia joined her mother Luisa in managing the family business. Initially focused on accessories, she soon resumed the family tradition of crafting leather handbags and suitcases. In 1977, Miuccia met Patrizio Bertelli, an entrepreneur in the leather goods industry. Their partnership brought a new creative and business direction to Prada, expanding its global reach.
Prada introduced its first women’s shoes in 1979, which were met with great acclaim. The brand began opening chain stores worldwide, aiming to make its products accessible across global markets. Prada stores became famous for their unique green interiors, later known as “Prada green,” with the first store opening on Via della Spiga in Milan, followed by boutiques in London, Madrid, Tokyo, and Paris.
In 1988, Prada launched its first women’s clothing line, known for its sleek silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. By the early 1990s, Prada had become one of the most beloved fashion brands worldwide.
In 1984, Prada introduced bags made from Pocono nylon, a durable material originally used in military tents. These water-resistant and stylish bags marked a turning point in global handbag design. Prada became known for refined elegance, contrasting with the flamboyant 1980s fashion. Miuccia later launched leather shoes and expanded Prada stores worldwide, establishing a strong international presence with over 250 locations today.
Miuccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli married in 1987, continuing to lead the family business together. In 1993, Prada launched its first men’s clothing and footwear line and introduced the Miu Miu brand, aimed at stylish, forward-thinking women. That same year, they founded “Milano Prada Arte,” later renamed Fondazione Prada, reflecting their passion for art and culture.
Prada continued expanding in the 2000s, acquiring brands like Church’s (classic English footwear) in 1999, launching innovative store concepts such as Epicenter, and collaborating with Luxottica on eyewear and Puig Beauty & Fashion Group for fragrances. Prada even partnered with LG to release the world’s first touchscreen mobile phone in 2007.
Through strategic growth, creative innovation, and unwavering dedication to quality, Prada transformed from a small leather shop into one of the most valuable and influential luxury brands globally. This journey exemplifies the enduring power of family vision, artistic innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit in shaping the fashion industry.
