Prada is a luxury fashion brand that has become a household name over the years. The brand is known for its elegant and sophisticated designs that cater to the fashion-forward individuals.
But have you ever wondered who Prada was named after? In this article, we will explore the history of the Prada brand and shed some light on the person behind its name.
The Birth of Prada
Prada was founded in 1913 by Mario Prada, who initially started the company as a leather goods shop in Milan, Italy. The store sold leather bags, trunks, and accessories to affluent customers. However, it wasn’t until Mario’s granddaughter took over the business that the brand gained international recognition.
Miuccia Prada – The Woman Behind The Brand
In 1978, Miuccia Prada took over the family business after completing her Ph.D. in political science. Miuccia had no prior experience in fashion designing but had a strong sense of style and an eye for aesthetics. She started experimenting with new designs and materials that were unconventional at that time.
Under Miuccia’s leadership, Prada transitioned from a small leather goods shop to a high-end fashion brand. Her first collection was launched in 1989 at Milan Fashion Week and received critical acclaim for its minimalistic yet avant-garde designs.
The Inspiration Behind The Name
Now coming back to our initial question – who was Prada named after? Well, it turns out that the brand was named after Miuccia’s grandfather – Mario Prada. He was the one who founded the company back in 1913.
Despite being named after her grandfather, Miuccia had a complicated relationship with him. In an interview with The Guardian, she revealed that her grandfather was against women working in business and never acknowledged her as his successor until much later in life.
The Legacy Of Prada
Today, Prada is a globally recognized brand that is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. The company has expanded its product line to include clothing, shoes, eyewear, fragrances, and more. However, the brand remains true to its roots and continues to create timeless designs that are both elegant and innovative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the founder of Prada was Mario Prada, but it was his granddaughter – Miuccia Prada who transformed the company into the fashion powerhouse that it is today. Despite facing opposition from her grandfather, she persevered and created a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of fashion designers to come.