The House of Fendi began in 1925, when Adele and Edoardo Fendi opened a small leather goods and fur shop in Rome. Their first handbag boutique and fur workshop quickly attracted an elite clientele. After Edoardo's passing in 1946, Adele and their five daughters took charge, emphasizing their family-centric approach. In 1965, Karl Lagerfeld joined as creative director, launching the unforgettable Double F logo. Over the years, Fendi expanded globally, introducing iconic products like the Baguette handbag. Today, it's celebrated not just for luxury but also for its commitment to heritage and innovation. Discover more about this fascinating journey!

Founding and Early Years

When you think of luxury fashion, Fendi's origins in 1925 Rome often come to mind. Founded by Adele and Edoardo Fendi, the brand began with a focus on luxury leather goods and fur items. With a vision and passion for quality, they opened their first handbag boutique and fur workshop in 1926, quickly gaining popularity among the elite. This early success laid the groundwork for what would become a renowned fashion house.

After Edoardo's death in 1946, Adele and her five daughters took the reins, reinforcing Fendi's family-operated structure. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation helped the brand flourish during a transformative era in fashion.

In 1965, the legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld joined as the creative director, bringing fresh ideas that would change the landscape of luxury fashion. He introduced the iconic Double F logo, which became synonymous with the brand's identity.

The release of the first ready-to-wear collection in 1977 marked a significant expansion for Fendi. This move not only showcased the brand's versatility but also solidified its position in the competitive fashion industry.

Through the years, Fendi has maintained its reputation for excellence, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. From its humble beginnings in a small Roman shop, Fendi has grown into a symbol of luxury and style, enchanting fashion lovers around the world.

Growth and Expansion

Growing into a global fashion powerhouse, Fendi embraced the evolving landscape of luxury in the 1980s as the third generation of Fendi women brought fresh perspectives and innovative designs to the brand.

This era marked a significant turning point, especially with the opening of Fendi's first U.S. store on Fifth Avenue in 1985, coinciding with the brand's 60th anniversary. This expansion was essential, as it introduced Fendi to a broader audience enthusiastic for luxury.

In 1994, Silvia Venturini Fendi was promoted to head of accessories and menswear design, a pivotal moment in the brand's growth.

Her vision led to the introduction of the iconic Fendi Baguette in 1997, which quickly became a cultural phenomenon and further solidified Fendi's status in the luxury handbag market.

This innovative accessory captured the hearts of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike, making it a must-have item.

Iconic Products and Collaborations

Fendi's innovative spirit shines through its iconic products and collaborations, which have considerably shaped the luxury fashion landscape. One of the most celebrated pieces is the Fendi Baguette, introduced in 1997. This stylish handbag quickly became an "It" bag, thanks in part to its prominent role on the TV show "Sex and the City" and its adoption by numerous celebrities.

The collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld, which began in 1965, was pivotal for Fendi. He not only created the iconic double F logo but also transformed the brand's approach to fur collections, elevating them to a status of Haute Couture. This partnership cemented Fendi's reputation as a luxury fashion house that marries tradition with innovation.

Fendi has also engaged in various cultural projects, showcasing its commitment beyond fashion. Significantly, the brand made substantial donations for restoration efforts at the Trevi Fountain, demonstrating its dedication to heritage and community involvement.

In 2024, Fendi revived its fragrance line, reconnecting with its historical roots in beauty products and expanding its portfolio. This move reflects a continuous dedication to luxury, further establishing Fendi as a pioneer in the fashion industry.

Through these iconic products and meaningful collaborations, Fendi not only sets trends but also builds a legacy that resonates with both fashion enthusiasts and cultural advocates alike. Each piece tells a story, reinforcing the brand's position as a cornerstone of luxury fashion.

Celebrations and Milestones

Milestones in Fendi's history reflect the brand's enduring legacy and commitment to luxury fashion. Celebrating 90 years of excellence in 2015, Fendi hosted a breathtaking runway show above the iconic Trevi Fountain, a sight that beautifully intertwined the brand's rich heritage with the glamour of the city. You could feel the excitement ripple through the crowd as they witnessed this monumental event.

Fendi also honored Karl Lagerfeld's remarkable 50-year journey with the brand that same year, featuring an extravagant Haute Fourrure show. A million-dollar fur coat showcased the impeccable craftsmanship that defines Fendi, reminding everyone of the artistry behind luxury.

In 2019, Fendi paid tribute to Lagerfeld during the Fall Haute Couture show, revealing 54 stunning looks that celebrated his influence and creativity. These moments truly highlight Fendi's connection to its past and commitment to its future.

Additionally, in 2021, Fendi demonstrated its dedication to cultural heritage by completing a €2.5 million restoration of the Temple of Venus and Roma. This act of restoration reflects the brand's respect for history and artistry.

Fendi even installed Giuseppe Penone's sculpture, *Foglie di Pietra*, in Rome in 2017, further emphasizing its involvement in cultural initiatives.

Here are some of Fendi's key milestones:

• Fendi's 90th anniversary celebration at the Trevi Fountain
• Karl Lagerfeld's 50 years at Fendi with Haute Fourrure
• Tribute to Lagerfeld in 2019's Fall Haute Couture
• Restoration of the Temple of Venus and Roma

Fendi truly embodies a legacy steeped in luxury and cultural significance.

Recent Developments

Embracing a new creative era, Fendi has forged ahead since Karl Lagerfeld's passing, blending its rich heritage with innovative design. Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Kim Jones, who took the helm in 2020, Fendi debuted its Fall/Winter 2021/2022 collection. This collection beautifully showcased a mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, a reflection of the brand's commitment to couture.

Silvia Venturini Fendi, a key player in maintaining the family legacy, emphasizes the importance of sustainability in Fendi's recent developments. The brand hasn't only expanded its product lines but also deepened its global market presence, adapting to contemporary fashion trends and consumer preferences.

Fendi's ongoing dedication to cultural restoration is equally significant. In 2021, the brand made substantial financial contributions to restore historic sites, including the iconic Temple of Venus and Roma.

Fendi's fashion shows reflect this blend of heritage and innovation, with each event showcasing its commitment to ethical practices and sustainability. You can see how the Fendi family remains deeply involved in guiding the brand toward a brighter future.

The focus on restoration and sustainability showcases Fendi's role not just in fashion but also in preserving cultural history. As Fendi continues to evolve, it remains a symbol of luxury and creativity, proving that while it honors its past, it also boldly steps into the future.