Quick Facts
Year Founded: 1992
Headquarters: Milan, Italy
Company Website: miumiu.com
Store Locator: Miu Miu Store Locator
Headquarters
History and Background
Miuccia Prada launched Miu Miu in 1993 as a line which contrasted heavily with her work for Prada. While the main Prada brand was streamlined and minimalist, Miu Miu was upbeat and playful.
Via della Spiga, Milan was the site of the first store. The first runway show was held in 1995 at New York Fashion Week. Kate Moss was a highlight of the show and industry players began to take notice of the label. Miu Miu then showed at London Fashion Week in 1997. Ten years later the brand moved on to Paris Fashion Week.
Miu Mui’s feminine and often rebellious designs attract the young and the young at heart. A number of celebrities have been featured in Miu Miu campaigns, starting with Drew Barrymore in 1995. Chloë Sevigny, Madonna, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Evan Rachel Wood followed.
Youthfulness has popped up constantly in the brands designs and campaigns. In 2009, 16-year-old Lindsey Wixson was featured in an ad campaign while 14-year-old Hailee Steinfeld made her debut in 2011. The Spring/Summer 2010 collection also offered a fresh take on youth and innocence. Miu Miu is also loved by street style stars who are inspired by the brand’s quirky garments.
Miu Miu stopped producing its men’s lines in 2008 to focus on women. That year, the brand opened a concept store in Taipei and a boutique on Rodeo Drive. A shoe collection and accessories line which included the now popular sunglasses followed. The label’s boutiques can be found in New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles,London, Florence, Rome, Melbourne and other cities.
In a statement to Business of Fashion, Miuccia Prada explained the difference between Prada and Miu Miu: “Prada is very sophisticated and considered; Miu Miu is much more naïve. The solution, when I am working on Miu Miu, has to come immediately, instinctively, spontaneously with whatever is available at the moment,” she said.
Best Known For…
The Miu Miu Club Bag is quite popular. As its name suggests, it’s perfect for a night out. The Club Bag is available in quirky Matelassé leather or shiny calf leather in neutrals, brights and metallics. The bag features a long chain strap and another chain hanging at the front.
Price Range
On the official website, Miu Miu bags range from around $752 for a clutch or mini bag to $3 000 for a top handle bag. The Outnet and Tradesy retail the brand at up to 70 per cent off.
Best Bang for the Buck
The Miu Miu Madras will stand the test of the time. This goat leather bag is simple and perfect for either work or play. Its classic shape and style means it will go with any outfit. It retails for around $1 400.
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