Prince Of Prints: The History Of Emilio Pucci

Born in 1914 to one of Florence’s oldest families, Emilio Pucci, the Marquis of Barsento, became a fashion phenomenon in the 1950s with a trailblazing vision that continues to reverberate today.

Although he relinquished a private life of aristocratic leisure, the Marquis was nonetheless crowned ‘The Prince of Prints’ by the international fashion press who were smitten by his bold, new designs and radical approach to fashion at the time. A major influence in contemporary fashion, Pucci’s legacy continues to be a major force behind the birth of the ‘Made in Italy’ style and a milestone in Italy’s sportswear concept.

 HOW IT BEGAN

An avid skier and athlete, who travelled between his family’s regal palazzo in Florence, the mountains of Switzerland and the glamorous resort island of Capri, Emilio Pucci naturally embodied the post-war, jet set glamour which captivated a new generation of modern, active women. His fashion career began unexpectedly in 1947 when he created a streamlined ski outfit, which was revolutionary with its sleek, tapered trousers and hooded parka, and was photographed on the slopes of Switzerland for Harper’s Bazaar. He then opened a boutique on Capri dedicated to simple, yet beautiful resort clothing that embodied the island’s natural beauty and refreshingly bright colours. The novel concept of designer ready-to-wear was a hit with the island’s sophisticated clientele who had instant access to wearable yet chic clothing. Later, his designs were prized by world-renown female icons, including Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, Jackie Kennedy, and Gloria Guinness, as well as Madonna, and Nicole Kidman.