Prada

Pradas history dates back to 1913 when Mario Prada started selling accessories such as shoes and handbags.

He first gained experience in America and Europe and started off by opening two boutiques in Milan.

Initially the trademark was a heavy suitcase made from walrus skin but due to the restrictions of air travel the firm switched to making lighter bags and other items with crystals, tortoise shell and wood, but the firm entered a difficult period in the 1970s.

Miuccia Prada was to be the catalyst for the revival of the brand- she was able to boast a doctorate political science by her mid-20s and in 1970 she began making backpack bags using a waterproof material.

She took over the family business in 1979 and was charged with improving falling sales.

Luxury tote bags and black backpacks became the order of the day, featuring nylon material and flat classic lines.

On to 1985 and a range of footwear for women was launched, plus the first pret-a-porter clothing line. Quality linens and clean lines gave the brand name an edge and a reputation for understatement and elegance.

In 1993 Prada won an international award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America and this was followed by a "Designer of the Year" accolade in 1995.

The first menswear shop was to open in LA in 1988 and stores were also opened in Manhattan and Las Vegas. The first north American boutique for Miu Miu appeared later.

Today Prada is a household name across the world with its empire of stores stretching to almost every western country. It is also widely associated with celebrity fashion and glamour.