Prada Catwalk

Synopsis

'The perfect printed tool for Prada fans everywhere' Wallpaper*

Founded as a luxury leather goods house in 1913 in Milan, Prada entered the field of fashion when Miuccia Prada took the helm of the family company in 1979. After initially focusing exclusively on accessories, she presented the house's first fashion collection in 1988. She would soon transform Prada into one of the world's most influential luxury brands with a deeply personal, sophisticated and subtly subversive approach.

This definitive publication opens with a concise history of the house, followed by a brief biographical profile of Miuccia Prada, before exploring the collections themselves, organized chronologically. Each collection is introduced by a short text unveiling its influences and highlights, and illustrated with carefully curated catwalk images that showcase hundreds of spectacular clothes, details, accessories, beauty looks and set designs - and, of course, the top fashion models who wore them on the runway, from Naomi Campbell and Gisele to Kate Moss and Kaia Gerber. A rich reference section, including an extensive index, concludes the book.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Birth of a Runway

* Miuccia Prada and her husband, Patrizio Bertelli, launched their first runway show in 1988.
* The show was a bold departure from the traditional fashion presentations of the time.
* Real-life example: The debut collection featured simple, understated designs that showcased the quality of the materials and craftsmanship.

Chapter 2: Defining a New Silhouette

* Prada's runways became known for their unconventional silhouettes and bold use of fabrics.
* Miuccia Prada experimented with androgyny, asymmetry, and exaggerated proportions.
* Real-life example: The 1993 spring/summer collection featured oversized blazers, fluid dresses, and asymmetrical skirts.

Chapter 3: The Art of Collaboration

* Prada collaborated with artists and designers to create unique and memorable runway experiences.
* These collaborations often challenged traditional notions of fashion.
* Real-life example: In 2012, Prada partnered with artist Carsten Höller to create a runway filled with transparent inflatable slides.

Chapter 4: Narrative and Performance

* Prada's runway shows became immersive experiences that told stories and evoked emotions.
* The use of lighting, music, and set design created a captivating atmosphere.
* Real-life example: The 2016 fall/winter show transformed the runway into a futuristic factory, complete with conveyor belts and robotic arms.

Chapter 5: Global Impact

* Prada's runway shows have influenced fashion worldwide.
* Designers and brands have adopted its experimental approach and unconventional aesthetic.
* Real-life example: The 2018 spring/summer show featured models wearing Prada garments inspired by traditional Chinese uniforms, showcasing the brand's global reach.

Chapter 6: The Future of Fashion

* Prada continues to innovate on the runway, exploring new technologies and pushing the boundaries of creativity.
* The brand's commitment to sustainability and diversity is also reflected in its shows.
* Real-life example: The 2021 fall/winter show was held virtually, with models wearing digital garments and the physical runway replaced by an abstract landscape.