Missoni History
Ottavio and Rosita Missoni opened a small knitwear workshop in Gallarate, Italy after marrying in 1953, creating the now-famous knitwear that characterizes the family-run global fashion house to this day. Does this Spark an idea?
History
Originally a sportswear manufacturer, Missoni expanded its line of knits, which are highlighted by their colorful waves, stripes and zigzag patterns, and caught the attention of Italian Vogue's Anna Piaggi and American Vogue's Diana Vreeland in 1967, thus attracting international acclaim.
Significance
The global fashion line Missoni remains family-owned, with a member of the youngest generation of Missoni's, Margherita Missoni, acting as Missoni's brand ambassador.
Time Frame
Angela Missoni took over designing for Missoni from her mother in 1997 and, according to The Online Home of Vogue, expanded the line, creating M for Missoni as well as a footwear line. Rosita Missoni continues to oversee Missoni Home for the label.
Types
Since its creation, Missoni has developed over 25 sub-lines that include Missoni Home, Missoni menswear, fragrance lines and M Missoni, which is a lower-priced line. As of 2009 the company had partnered with the Rezidor Hotel group to launch Hotel Missonis in Paris, Miami, Dubai and Edinburgh.
Fun Fact
Ottavio Missoni met his future wife Rosita at the 1948 Olympic Games in London. Ottavio designed the Italian team's uniforms and was also competing as a runner while Rosita was in London studying English.
Famous Ties
According to New York magazine, famous Missoni clientele include actresses Cameron Diaz, Nicole Richie, Demi Moore, Katie Holmes and Drew Barrymore.
Tags: expanded line, global fashion, Missoni History, Missoni Home, Rosita Missoni