The unmistakable elegance of Missoni
From its signature zig-zag knits to its easy, effortless air, it’s little wonder why this Italian fashion house is a much-loved favorite
On paper it sounds like an impossible task: build a successful and much-loved brand that has a signature recognizable by those in the know at 20 paces, side-stepping fashion’s ever-changing trends while deftly staying relevant and desirable in the process. It’s a feat, though, that Missoni has been successfully managing to pull off for the past 65 years. The much-loved Italian fashion house, founded by husband and wife Tai and Rosita Missoni in 1953, and now headed up by their three children with Angela Missoni as Creative Director of womenswear, is one of the biggest names in the industry – a heritage label that manages to stay faithful to its rich history while constantly reinventing itself and conjuring clothes season upon season that women want to wear on repeat.
It’s the label’s winning way with crochet that’s really cemented its place on the fashion map, not to mention impeccably curated wardrobes across the globes. Whipped up into endlessly comfortable and versatile clothes, the unmistakable colorful knitted zig-zag transcends moods, seasons and generations. Part of its enduring appeal is its magical ability to slip seamlessly into every aspect of your wardrobe, from the statement-making swimwear and brilliantly fuss-free dresses that form the lynchpin of the most stylish vacation wardrobes, to the cheery, chic cardigans and sweaters that layer with everything worth wearing through the winter months. And if you need proof of just how, you only have to look at the impressive coterie of dedicated followers that have come to rely on Missoni, from Michelle Obama and the Duchess of Cambridge to Cate Blanchett and Kate Moss.
The label’s new pre-fall collection – a riff on its signature knits with hints of British style thrown into the mix – is packed out with all the hard-working, quietly brilliant pieces you could hope for. There are plenty of separates to call upon: wear the narrow knife-pleat skirt with a crisp shirt or a T-shirt and blazer and the relaxed, neatly fitted sweaters with everything from your favorite pair of jeans to tailored pants. It’s the dresses that you’ll really come to rely on, though. Whether it’s the one-shouldered maxi or the impeccably simple long-sleeved tube dress, they hit the sweet spot between easy and elegant and can be thrown on at a moment’s notice and dressed up or down as you see fit.