Emilio Pucci
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The Label
Although each one is unique, you can’t mistake a Pucci print. Since the late-1940s, when Italian skier and socialite Marchese Emilio Pucci casually tried his hand at design, the brand has been synonymous with bold, brightly colored graphic patterns with a kaleidoscopic, slightly psychedelic feel. Pucci prints usually appear on clingy, stretchy fabrics, and are widely applied in every category—evening wear, ready-to-wear, swimwear, accessories, shoes and home décor; they have even been featured in the logo of the Apollo 15 space mission and the interior of a Ford Lincoln Continental. Vintage Pucci is highly collectible, but present designer Christian LaCroix’s more current designs—which use prints from the Pucci archive—are also in high-demand. LVMH acquired a majority interest in the company in 2000.
The Look
Lucy in the sky with diamonds—real diamonds.
The Designer
“Prince of Prints” and CFDA-award winner Emilio Pucci designed the line himself until his death in 1992. His daughter, Laudomia Pucci, then took the reigns, before passing them along to a string of young designers including, in 2000, Julio Espada; critics felt Espada over-embellished the cuts, detracting from the joyful signature patterns. In 2003, Christian LaCroix was brought on as Artistic Direcor—a good match considering his mastery of color and affection for sixties and seventies styling. Laudomia Pucci continues to serve as Image Director.
Designer Affiliations: LaCroix also has his own eponymous label, launched in 1987. It was sold by LVMH in early January to Miami-based Falic Group.
