A Bit About Missoni

Born in 1921, Ottavio Missoni's love of sports encouraged him to start a wool track suit business, which became popular quickly and by 1948 were chosen by the Italian Olympic team.

When Ottavio married the daughter of a shawl producer, the rest became history. A first collection was shown in 1958, not named Missoni at that time, originally called Maglificio Jolly, which translates to Joker Knitwear. Dresses started to appear in their knit fabric around 1965, growing the now Missoni brands unique and beautiful knitwear. By 1967 they were a Paris sensation.

Missoni had a big break in the United States when in 1969, when they were featured in Woman’s Wear Daily. A Missoni boutique was soon to follow in a NYC  Bloomingdales around 1970. 

Now years later with multiple expansions into the marketplace and awards under their belt for menswear, perfume, and outerwear, the couple turned the business in 1998 over to their daughter Angela who then started the Missoni M line.