Have you ever wondered why the luxury fashion brand is called Prada? Well, let’s dive into the history of this legendary fashion house to find out the answer.
Early Beginnings
The story of Prada began in 1913 when Mario Prada established a leather goods shop in Milan, Italy. The shop was called Fratelli Prada, which means Prada Brothers in English.
At that time, the store sold leather bags, trunks, and accessories for travel. The products were not just stylish but also functional for people who traveled frequently.
The Rise of Prada
In the 1970s, Miuccia Prada, Mario’s granddaughter, joined the family business. She revolutionized the company by introducing new designs and materials to their collection.
Her first big break came in 1978 when she introduced a line of black nylon handbags that became an instant hit. This was a groundbreaking move as luxury brands at that time only used leather for their products.
The Meaning Behind the Name
So why did Mario Prada choose to name his shop Fratelli Prada instead of just using his last name? The answer lies in his belief that using your own name was too egotistical and showed off one’s vanity. Instead, he chose to use “Fratelli” or “Brothers” as it represented unity and collaboration with his brother Martino.
After Miuccia took over the business, she changed the name from Fratelli Prada to simply “Prada.” She wanted to simplify and modernize the brand while still keeping its heritage intact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the origin of the name may not be as exciting as some may have hoped for, it still holds significance for this iconic fashion brand. From a small leather goods store to a global luxury brand, Prada has come a long way. The name may have changed, but the quality, craftsmanship, and innovative design remain a hallmark of the brand.