Early Life
Miuccia Prada, born Maria Bianchi on May 10, 1949, in Milan, Italy, is the youngest granddaughter of Mario Prada, who founded the luxury goods manufacturer Prada in 1913. She attended Liceo Classico Berchet high school in Milan and later graduated with a degree in political science from the University of Milan in 1971, obtaining a PhD in political science in 1978. She also studied acting at the Piccolo Teatro in Milan. Her upbringing was marked by intellectual curiosity and a strong sense of social awareness.
Rise to Success
Miuccia Prada took over the family-owned luxury goods manufacturer in 1978. She met her future husband and business partner, Patrizio Bertelli, the same year. Bertelli played a crucial role in revitalizing the brand. Her first successful handbag design was in 1985, featuring black nylon handbags. In 1992, she launched Miu Miu, a less expensive womenswear line.
Key Business Strategies
Miuccia Prada is known for her innovative designs and her ability to blend high fashion with functionality. In 2020, Miuccia presented her final collection as the brand's sole creative director, sharing creative responsibility with Raf Simons. Bertelli is responsible for the commercial side of products and Prada's retail strategy.
Philanthropy
Miuccia Prada, along with Patrizio Bertelli, co-founded the Fondazione Prada in 1993, a non-profit institution dedicated to contemporary art and culture.