Italian Fashion Empires We Admire

Italy with its designers and sense of aesthetics has impacted the history of fashion in a way that cannot be understated. Even if you’re not really into fashion, you surely know dozens of Italian high-end labels. Even today, Italian fashion continues to impress and inspire all the world. But, would you like to know more about the stories behind the success of famous Italian fashion houses? Keep on reading to find out more on Gucci, Prada, Versace, Valentino and Giorgio Armani!

Gucci

One of the oldest clothing brands in Italy was founded in 1921. Its founder, Guccio Gucci, was working in the hotel business in London and Paris, where the luxury lifestyles of hotel guests inspired him to found the luggage label. He combined the skilled local craftsmen from Tuscany with his own aesthetics and pretty soon the brand became very popular with both Italian and international high class.

Since the equestrian community also adored the brand, the “horse bit” logo we all know was made. In the century that followed, the brand has become the backbone of Hollywood fashion. However, nowadasy Gucci has found its way to younger consumers too. They cherish the blend of class and eccentricity the brand is famous for.

Prada

Like Gucci, Prada has also the roots in the luggage goods. Mario Prada founded the house in 1913 and a few years later the Italian royal household confirmed it as an official luxury leather luggage supplier. That’s why there’s the knotted rope framing the logo of the Prada label.

In the ’70s the new energy and modern attitude was injected in the brand. Since then, Prada is well known for its minimalist, timeless and chic designs. The use of Saffiano leather is one of the Prada’s signature motifs.

Versace

Gianni Versace founded this brand in 1978. The idea was to create the label that looks and feels luxurious. The brand is famous for its boldness, brightness and energy, when it comes to graphics, patterns and colors. The mythological creature, Medusa, features the brand’s logo and, yes, she is famous for mesmerizing and consuming anyone who look at her!

And then there was a tragedy: Gianni Versace was murdered in 1997. Donatella Versace, his sister, took over the company as its creative director. And, luckily, she succeeded! Because of label’s dedication to luxury, hedonism and fearlessness, Versace is arguably one of the clothing brands that’s often mentioned in rap lyrics.

Valentino

Valentino Garavani was enchanted by fashion from an early age, therefore he studied it, not only in Italy, but also in Paris. As he returned to his homeland, he opened the fashion house in Rome in 1960. He combined the Parisian aesthetics with Italian flare to make something grandiose and unique.

The shade of red Valentino Garavani very often used for the dresses is yet called “Valentino Red”. The Italian fashion designer established the Valentino brand, loved and appreciated by numerous celebrities. Therefore, when you see a red carpet, rest assured you’ll see at least one person wearing his creations.

Giorgio Armani

When this name comes to your mind, you probably imagine classy black suits, elegant leather luxury goods and extravagance. Yes, Giorgio Armani stands for stylish look only Italian brands are able to manufacture.

Giorgio Armani built his empire in the ’70s with an idea to create something everyday people would love wearing. Thus, the brand has nowadays not only high-end products, but also diffusion labels, such as Armani Jeans, Emporio Armani, EA7, Armani Junior etc.

Not many fashion houses are still privately owned, but this one is, as well as Versace. This might be the perfect place to compare these two typical Italian fashion houses. Whereas Versace is ostentatious and glamourous, Armani shows us Italian class. The brand is cool, elegant and toned down, but at the same time breathtaking and hard not to notice.