BRAND

Marni is an acclaimed Italian luxury fashion brand renowned worldwide for its women's, men's, and kids' ready-to-wear collections and accessories. Founded in 1994 by Consuelo Castiglioni, the brand has gained recognition for its distinct aesthetic and experimental designs. Marni stands out from its peers in Milan by offering a unique and intellectual approach to fashion, challenging conventional norms and embracing creativity. Despite its relatively small size, Marni enjoys a devoted following and has cultivated a reputation for sophisticated and forward-thinking designs. Throughout its history, Marni has remained a brand that garners both respect and curiosity. With its bold and distinctive approach to fashion, Marni has cemented its place as an oddity in Italian fashion, existing independently of trends and charting its own path.


HISTORY

Marni was established in Milan in 1994 as a side business of the Castiglioni family's fur company. However, it quickly gained independence in 1999 and became a standalone brand under the visionary leadership of Consuelo Castiglioni. The brand's experimental design aesthetic, characterized by sharp silhouettes, bold prints, and textures, propelled Marni to international acclaim. Collaborations with notable artists like Richard Prince, Sir Peter Blake, and Kim Gordon allowed Marni to create original prints that became highly sought after. In 2000, Marni expanded its presence by opening standalone stores and strengthening its position in luxury department stores. The brand also embraced e-commerce with the launch of an online store, providing customers with a unique glimpse into the world of Marni and its artistic collaborations. In 2012, Marni made waves with a successful collaboration with H&M, further increasing its visibility and popularity. Following over fifteen years as a family-owned business, Marni was acquired by the OTB Group, led by Italian entrepreneur Renzo Rosso, in 2012. This marked a new chapter for the brand, aligning it with other prestigious fashion labels within the group. In 2016, Consuelo Castiglioni stepped down as Creative Director, and the talented designer Francesco Risso took over the creative helm. Risso brought his unique vision and a concept he calls "retrovolution" to Marni, infusing the brand with bold patterns, upbeat silhouettes, and a synthesis of color and shape.


DESIGNER

Consuelo Castiglioni, the founder of Marni, hails from Switzerland but developed strong ties to Milanese fashion through her marriage. Despite lacking a formal education in fashion design, Castiglioni's sharp eye and creative instincts made her one of the most innovative designers in the industry. She championed a sophisticated and forward-thinking design philosophy that resonated with influential insiders and a cult global following. After Consuelo Castiglioni's departure, Francesco Risso took the reins as Creative Director, infusing Marni with his countercultural lens and a penchant for challenging traditional fashion conventions. Risso's designs have continued to push boundaries and showcase Marni's experimental spirit.