In the heart of Rome, a remarkable fashion legacy began in 1925 when Adele and Edoardo Fendi opened a small fur and leather shop. Little did they know that their modest boutique would evolve into one of the world's most celebrated luxury houses, redefining elegance and craftsmanship for generations to come.
The brand's trajectory changed dramatically in 1965 when the five Fendi sisters—Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla, and Alda—joined the family business. Their visionary decision to collaborate with then-emerging designer Karl Lagerfeld marked the beginning of Fendi's transformation into a global phenomenon. Lagerfeld's innovative approach, particularly his reinterpretation of fur through sophisticated techniques like shearing, dyeing, and stitching, propelled Fendi into international spotlight.
Lagerfeld's creative genius gave birth to the iconic double 'F' logo in 1965, affectionately known as "Fun Fur." This revolutionary emblem came to represent not just the brand's name but its forward-thinking philosophy—blending tradition with innovation, craftsmanship with fantasy, understated elegance with daring creativity.
Perhaps no Fendi creation captures the brand's cultural impact better than the Baguette bag, introduced in 1997. Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, the granddaughter of the founders, this compact, rectangular shoulder bag became an instant classic. Its name derived from the French bread due to how one traditionally carries it under the arm, the Baguette bag gained unprecedented popularity when featured on the hit television series "Sex and the City," transforming it into a cultural phenomenon that continues to be reinvented season after season.
In 2001, Fendi entered a new chapter when it became part of the LVMH group, strengthening its global presence while preserving its Italian heritage. Under the creative direction of Kim Jones for womenswear and Silvia Venturini Fendi for accessories and menswear, the house continues to innovate while honoring its rich legacy. Their collections masterfully balance the brand's historic craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, showcasing exceptional leatherwork, intricate embroideries, and visionary designs.
For those interested in exploring Fendi's extensive product range, including their latest handbags, ready-to-wear collections, accessories, and seasonal items, we've compiled a comprehensive electronic spreadsheet of Fendi products
In recent years, Fendi has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable luxury through various initiatives. From pioneering eco-friendly fur treatments to implementing reduced environmental impact manufacturing processes, the brand has shown dedication to responsible craftsmanship. Their support for emerging designers through programs like the "Fendi Factory" project exemplifies their ongoing commitment to nurturing creative talent while preserving Italian artisanal traditions.
"Fendi represents the perfect synthesis of innovation and tradition, where Roman heritage meets contemporary vision."
From its humble beginnings as a Roman furrier to its current status as a global luxury powerhouse, Fendi's journey reflects nearly a century of artistic evolution, business savvy, and uncompromising dedication to quality. The brand continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide with its unique ability to honor its heritage while consistently pushing creative boundaries, ensuring its lasting relevance in the ever-changing landscape of luxury fashion.