Prada, the internationally known fashion house, lead by fashion designer extraordinaire Miuccia Prada is well known all over the world for those lovely black nylon handbags –those true symbols of luxury. Find out how it all started, all about the purses and shoes (every woman’s vice) and that other line…Miu Miu.
Behind Prada – History behind those Handbags
Prada –the label has been around for quite some time, since 1913 to be exact. In fact, Mario Prada started the brand selling what the company is now famous for – handbags, shoes and trunks. His granddaughter, Miuccia Prada was born in 1950 and by the time she had reached her 20’s it would appear that she wouldn’t continue the family business since she had other interests. She has a doctorate in Political Science and was previously a communist. However, we all know the outcome of her destiny. Miuccia’s claim to fame is the nylon handbags (made out of a fabric called Pocone) so many women have fallen in love with all over the world, not to mention turning the family company into a billion-dollar-business.
The Prada Look:
It’s very simple and classic and very subtlety chic. Hip Tip: You could be in the most dressed down outfit, but if you throw a black Prada nylon shoulder bag over your shoulder, then you’re instantly chic.
The Purses:
The purses are truly luxurious. When you see the Prada symbol, you know its pure luxury. They are streamlined, simple, chic and classic. Carrying one will make your entire outfit pulled together. The nylon handbags come in different shapes and sizes and are great for any lifestyle. The nylon backpacks are also classic fashion statement and has been a Prada staple for decades.
The Shoes:
Prada has brought glamour to your most basic shoes. They specialize in both men and women’s shoes. Women’s favorites include stilettos, boots and even sneakers – bringing luxury to gym shoes.
The Cost of Handbags and Shoes: It’s not cheap. Celebrities like Uma Thurman, socialites and the people who can afford it, flock to Prada for the hippest in designer fashion. Handbags are priced from $350-$1,200 and shoes can cost approximately $300-800. And, for everyone else, there’s MasterCard.
The Other Line:
Miu Miu – This is Prada’s cheaper sister line, making high-end luxury fashion accessible to all.
The Miu Miu Look: It’s a little funkier and edgier than its Sister Prada line. Shoes and handbags are often more embellished than their Prada counterparts.
The Other Man: Miuccia Prada’s right hand man is Fabio Zambernardi. He is the design director for both Prada and Miu Miu.
The Fortune: estimated at $1.9 billion worldwide-statistics from 2002.
Where to Go: There are many places you can go to buy Prada. The Prada store being an obvious, but you can also purchase the coveted handbags and shoes at authorized locations like Department stores. If you don’t want to pay Department store prices, there are Prada outlets in a few locations - one being in Italy.
Also, scour thrift stores. Many women give their authentic handbags and shoes to upscale vintage stores. Check with your nearest vintage specialty store. And, if you don’t see them in the store, just ask the salesperson. Sometimes they keep special pieces in the back room. Make sure they are authentic Prada pieces. Each piece comes with an authorization card and don’t forget to check out the logo and the zippers to make sure the Prada logo is legitimate. Shoes are less of a problem as far as knock offs are concerned.
The Timeline...
1979 – Miuccia took over the company expanded into luxury purses, with what we know and love today –the nylon black signature Prada handbag.
1985 –a line of footwear was created for men and women.
1993 –She received the highly acclaimed International Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
1998 – Prada opened stores in New York City and Las Vegas.
2004 – Prada continues to be a mainstay in the fashion industry.
An elegant woman wears Prada.
