Trendsetters in fashion and homeware the world over, the enormous Italian fashion house of Missoni began its life in a tiny family owned workshop in the 1950’s. Known everywhere for its bright, colorful zig-zag designs, and kaleidoscopic patterns, the iconic Missoni collections are instantly recognizable.
Its founders, Rosita and Ottavio Missoni met at the 1948 Olympics where Ottavio was competing in the 400m hurdles. Soon after they married and began their exciting knitwear adventure. Drawing on their fashion knowledge – Rosita’s family had a factory specialising in kimonos, and Ottavio had a workshop making wool tracksuits – the couple decided to establish a small knitwear shop just North of Milan in 1953.
Initially producing knitwear for other designers, the couple’s work came to the attention of the fashion world in the mid 1960’s when they created a knitwear collection for the designer Emanuelle Kahn. From then on the Missoni name progressed from strength to strength and in 1983, the Missoni Home Collection (a Dotmaison favourite!) was launched to much acclaim. The distinctive Missoni stripes, zig-zag pattern and patchworks have since appeared on bathrobes, hand towels, bed linen, cushions and blankets.
Continuing the family business, Rosita and Ottavio’s children Vittorio, Luca and Angela have taken up the reigns of the business. Angela took over designing in 1996, and Luca and Vittorio oversee the business. Together they share the commitment to move the Missoni name forward and have clients all over the world including celebrities Cameron Diaz, Demi Moore and Nicole Richie.
From swimwear and handbags to towels and cushions, Missoni has earned a covetable reputation for its innovations and designs and continues to capture the imagination of the fashion and home interiors world.
