If you’re familiar with the brand Prada, you probably recognize the iconic triangle logo that adorns many of their products. But when exactly did Prada start using this distinctive symbol?
The Early Days of Prada
Prada was founded in Milan, Italy in 1913 by Mario Prada. Originally called “Fratelli Prada” (which translates to “Prada Brothers” in English), the company sold leather goods such as handbags and steamer trunks. At the time, these items were primarily marketed to wealthy aristocrats and members of the royal family.
The Evolution of the Logo
It wasn’t until the 1970s that Prada began to truly modernize its branding efforts. In 1977, Miuccia Prada (Mario’s granddaughter) took over the company and began introducing new product lines, including clothing and accessories for women. It was also around this time that she enlisted an esteemed graphic designer named Massimo Vignelli to redesign the company’s logo.
The original Prada logo featured a simple serif font with no additional imagery or symbols. Vignelli’s redesign introduced a more modern sans-serif font, along with a small triangle shape located above and to the right of the word “Prada.” The triangle itself was not yet filled in; it was simply an outline.
The Triangle Becomes Filled-In
Over time, the triangle became more prominent in Prada’s branding efforts. In 1985, Miuccia introduced a line of black nylon backpacks that would become one of Prada’s most iconic products. These backpacks featured a larger version of the triangle logo, which was now filled in with black against a white background.
This use of contrasting colors helped make the triangle even more eye-catching than before. From there on out, it became increasingly common to see the triangle logo on Prada products of all kinds, from handbags and shoes to clothing and perfume.
The Triangle Today
Today, the Prada triangle is instantly recognizable around the world as a symbol of high-end luxury fashion. It’s undergone some slight variations over the years (sometimes appearing in a more minimalist form with just the outline), but it remains a core part of Prada’s branding efforts.
Whether you’re a die-hard fashion fan or simply appreciate good design, there’s no denying the power and impact of the Prada triangle logo.