Miuccia Prada Biography@People

One of the most well known names in high end fashion, Miuccia Prada is noted for taking a small-time family business and building a formidable fashion empire.

Maria Bianchi Prada, known professionally as Miuccia Prada, was born May 10, 1949. Her parents were Luigi Bianchi and Luisia Prada, although she was eventually adopted by her maternal aunt. Her grandfather was Mario Prada, noted for founding the first retail line bearing the name “Prada.” It dealt in leather goods and was known as Fratelli Prada.

Pursuing her education in political science, Prada secured a PhD in a field far removed from the glitz and glamour of the fashion world. Making her an even more unlikely choice for the business, she also attended Teatro Piccolo for five years, where she both studied and performed mime. Eyebrows were also raised when it became public knowledge she was a member of the Communist Party. In addition to her political views, Prada was an outspoken proponent of women’s rights in Milan throughout the 70s.

Prada’s future in fashion, however, began in 1978 when she inherited the company, Prada SpA, from her mother. With her husband, Patrizio Bertelli, Prada expanded the company’s output from its previous luxury goods to high end clothing. Prada credits Bertelli with much of her drive to continue and push towards international recognition.

1985 marked her first important benchmark when she scored her largest professional success to date. She released what would ultimately become the signature Prada handbag. A classic, black nylon bag, it was simultaneously delicate but sturdy. An instant hit, it was quickly seen hanging on the arms of supermodels and the international fashion elite such as Marie Helvin and Jerry Hall.

While the line was becoming a must have, the prices were prohibiting all but the rich and famous from owning them. Replicas began flooding the market, which only served to make the authentic products of the Prada line all the more desirable.

1989 brought the first ready-to-wear collection to the runway. Composed of dark tones, classic cuts, and simple designs, the line stood in stark contrast to the bright, overtly sensual lines of its competitors. Critics were enthralled, and Prada was instantaneously raised to the upper echelons of high fashion.

The success continued unabated, and 1992 saw the release of Miu Miu, a slightly cheaper bridge line. With lowered prices and looks that were less austere, the earthy, more stylistically daring patterns continue to be a hit with the fashion-minded youth.

All the hard work culminated in 1993 when Prada was honored with a Council of Fashion Designers of America International Award. The following year, she had earned enough fashion recognition to debut in New York and London. Her two lines are currently staples at Milan’s fashion week.

In addition to fashion, Prada is currently revered for her heavy financial support of various artistic endeavors.

@Source from: http://www.yuddy.com/celebrity/miuccia-prada/bio