Prada has left an imprint on fashion as we know it, and its tangible designs are one of the most respected in the world. Let’s take a look at the Prada history and how its style influenced fashion as we know it today.

Prada clothes and accessories are recognized as classic and eccentric, although they’re also notorious as having a techno vibe. Its style draws on northern Italian traditions with elegance and a fine craftsmanship. But on the other hand, their stylists create new designs, patterns and prints from unconventional materials. It’s a brand that never follows trends and instead, follows its own path. For example, when other high-end fashion brands focused on minimalism, Prada presented a curvy, men-esque collection. This look caught on across female fashion, but Prada then switched to block colours and bold prints.

Since 1913, its cutting-edge style has made it one of the most respected designer brands in the fashion realm. In fact, it’s become a statement for challenging conventions focused on experimentation. Style statements are born from the stylists’ passionate examination of disciplines. As a result, the creations are a unique interpretation from unusual perspectives.

Prada history began in 1913 and it looked very different to the designer label we know today. It was once solely dedicated to bags and suitcases. Mario Prada, a craftsman, opened a shop in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. From its initial opening, it received a healthy interest – especially amongst people who wanted accessories. The main reason people loved accessories in that era was because they wouldn’t go out of fashion as quickly as clothes would.

Nearly a century later, Mario Prada passed down the business to his granddaughter, Miuccia Prada Bianchi. Her personal history focused on political commitment. However, she always had an interested in a unique society social and youthful Italian eccentricity. She had a background in fashion designing and she even married a fashion designer too in 1987.

Miuccia Prada is an Italian fashion designer who owns and created the Prada brand. She was the youngest granddaughter and started this fashion line by creating and designing high-end suitcases, handbags and trunks for the Milanese elite. She attended the University of Milan where she became recognized as a feminist and earned herself a Ph.D. in political science.

In 1978, Prada reimagined her family’s business and grew it from a sleepy and stagnant brand to what we recognize in this current day. Her husband helped with the company’s merchandise with designs and patterns she’d created herself. At the time Prada was born, heavy logo clothes dominated the fashion world. However, four years later, Prada welcomed a collection of ready-to-wear women’s clothes which were titled “uniforms for the slightly disenfranchised”.

Prada stands out from the rest of the fashion world for a multitude of reasons. Throughout Prada history, it’s always been fearless in its decisions and creations, and never been afraid to attempt new styles. One example of this is a transparent raincoat which turned opaque once it got wet. In 2004, this amazed critics at a fashion show, as well as straw hats and embroidered moccasins. Prada’s fashion and accessories soon created an original energy which other brands and boutiques couldn’t offer.

Prada’s designs are one of the most influential luxury brands, and therefore the most replicated. In 1988, the brand introduced womenswear for the first time and launched a light-hearted label, Miu Miu, in 1993. One year later, Prada expanded into menswear. No matter the collection, its signature look is glamorous and easy to recognize – even amongst Italian competitors. The clothing and accessories are made from high-quality materials with investment in mind. Their credibility is priceless with other brands admire and take inspiration from.

Prada’s breakthrough came in the early 1990’s with the black nylon bag. This was the first true fashion statement from the brand and it transformed every season along with any clothes. This touched a new, minimalist-minded consumer who’d prefer to not wear their wealth on their sleeve. It remained the single most admirable accessory of that decade.

The rest of the world had to take time to catch up with the brand’s wonderful aesthetic and designs. Prada pushed the boundaries of what fashion can be and that there are no rules to what you can create. Currently, today’s Prada runway collections are the most anticipated on the show schedule and receive worldwide attention. Their new designs and collections are ground-breaking and shock critics and fans in a positive way each time. The brand even branched out into cars in 2009 with the South Korean maker Hyundai, the Prada Genesis.

Prada handbags make a huge fashion statement and are obviously not just a passing trend. The brand’s handbags have become recognized for their high-class elegance and quality. These handbags are designed with more than just practicality in mind, but are a work of art. Let’s take a look at our top finds and what makes each one so special.

We love this navy blue colour which is a recognized shade for Prada. Capturing both practicality and style, it’s a one-of-a-kind accessory. Made from leather, it’s durable and actually gets better with age. The gold-tone hardware is a beautiful contrast against the blue and gives it a sophisticated feel. With two interior pockets, there’s plenty of space for your essentials, whilst keeping them to hand.

The metal lettering logo on the leather triangle makes it stand out against other competitor handbags. The two-way zipper closure keeps your essentials safe and to hand, whilst keeping in touch with the sophisticated style.

This rose beige colour is a neutral tone with a tinge of rose pink. As a result, it’s a high-end purse which provides the perfect addition to your outfit. Team it with an all-black outfit to add a stunning contrast which others will admire. Prada is known for this iconic Saffiano style, and this durable leather will keep in shape for years to come.

The finished silver chain strap provides the ability for hands-free so you can focus on enjoying your day. Crafted in Italy with excellent care and precision, this handbag shows the innovation and creativity of the company.

This handbag comes in a sleek midnight black which gives off a sense of elegance and beauty. Made of soft nylon, it’s simple to take care of and will last for many years to come. The quilt style offers a unique twist and gives a quilt pattern for a homely and soft feel. You can utilize this in the day or for special occasions to complement an array of outfits and instantly give yourself a confidence boost.

We hope you enjoyed reading about Prada history – including a brief background into the designer’s early career and some fun facts about the brand. Owning one of this iconic fashion brand's pieces is certainly a matter of prestige.

What do you know about Prada history? If there are some facts you’d like to share, let us know in the comments to keep this conversation going.

Related Article: Up and Coming Designers You Need To Watch Out For