Prada

Founded in Milan in 1913 by Mario Prada, the Italian luxury house began as a specialist retailer of leather goods, luggage and travel accessories. In 1919, it became an official supplier to the Italian Royal Household, cementing its reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Under Mario’s granddaughter, Miuccia Prada, the business evolved into a global fashion empire known for its unconventional approach to materials and design.

Miuccia joined the family business in the 1970s after studying political science at the University of Milan. In 1977, she partnered with entrepreneur Patrizio Bertelli, aiming to modernise production and extend the brand’s international reach. One of Prada’s first and most influential designs was the black nylon backpack, which elevated an industrial fabric into a luxury accessory, challenging conventional ideas of prestige.

In 1988, Prada debuted its first womenswear collection, introducing muted colours, relaxed tailoring and uniform-inspired silhouettes that stood apart from the decade’s taste for conspicuous glamour. The house launched Miu Miu, Miuccia’s more playful label in 1993 and expanded into menswear in 1995. The America’s Cup sneaker, created in 1997 for the Luna Rossa sailing team, brought technical sportswear influences into luxury footwear for men. At Miu Miu, the Matelassé bag became a signature, distinguished by its softly gathered, quilted leather. Introduced in 2007, Prada’s Galleria bag brought renewed attention to the house’s leather-working heritage, while its enamelled metal triangle logo became a hallmark of its accessories.

Today, Prada remains a cornerstone of contemporary fashion, recognised for its ability to challenge established conventions while maintaining a strong design identity. Its enduring appeal lies in a vision of luxury defined not solely by material excellence, but by curiosity, cultural awareness and the constant re-examination of what fashion can be.