Missoni's distinctive chevron pattern and bold colours have always been easily recognisable. So how do they manage to stay on trend after so many years? The answer is not to pull out older prints and re-interpret them, rather play with patterns and mix them up so that geometric prints will work harmoniously with florals and black and white will sit beautifully next to colourful weaves.

The story of the Missoni Fashion House

The story of the Missoni Fashion House is a captivating tale that intertwines creativity, family legacy, and the evolution of fashion over several decades.

Founded in 1953 by the visionary couple Ottavio Missoni and Rosita Jelmini, the brand emerged from a small knitwear workshop in the picturesque town of Sumirago, located in the Lombardy region of Italy. The couple’s shared passion for textiles and design laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary force in the fashion industry.

Initially, Ottavio, an accomplished athlete and textile designer, and Rosita, who came from a family of textile merchants, began producing high-quality knitwear characterized by vibrant colors and intricate patterns.

Their innovative approach to knitting techniques, combined with a keen eye for color, allowed them to create unique pieces that stood out in a crowded marketplace. The brand quickly gained recognition for its signature zigzag patterns, which became synonymous with Missoni and helped to define its aesthetic.

Missoni in the 1960s

Throughout the 1960s, Missoni experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, particularly after being showcased at prominent fashion shows in Milan.

The brand's appeal was further enhanced by its association with the burgeoning jet-set culture, as celebrities and fashion icons began to don Missoni creations.

This period marked a significant turning point, as the Missoni name became a staple on the international fashion scene, celebrated for its bold designs and luxurious knitwear.

Missoni in the 1980s

As the years progressed, the Missoni Fashion House continued to innovate and expand its offerings. The introduction of home textiles in the 1980s allowed the brand to extend its distinctive patterns and colors into the realm of interior design, further solidifying its status as a lifestyle brand.

The Missoni home collection, characterized by the same vibrant hues and patterns found in their clothing lines, became highly sought after, appealing to a clientele that appreciated both fashion and design.

The Missoni Family

The family aspect of the Missoni brand is also worth noting. The couple's children—Angela, Luca, and Vittorio—have played integral roles in the brand's development and direction.

Angela Missoni, in particular, has been a driving force behind the brand since the 1990s, bringing fresh ideas while honoring the legacy established by her parents. Under her creative direction, the brand has continued to evolve, embracing contemporary trends while maintaining its core identity.

In addition to its fashion collections, the Missoni brand has diversified into various collaborations and projects, including partnerships with luxury hotels, lifestyle brands, and art initiatives. These collaborations have allowed Missoni to reach new audiences while reinforcing its reputation as a leader in both fashion and design.

Today, the Missoni Fashion House stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and family heritage in the world of fashion.

With its rich history and commitment to innovation, Missoni continues to inspire new generations of designers and fashion enthusiasts, ensuring that the legacy of Ottavio and Rosita Missoni lives on through their iconic creations.

Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014 and the luxury interior design blog All The Pretty Homes in 2024. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.