My American history teacher ingrained in his class this key fact: understanding history allows you to make better choices. Similar to how understanding American history can help you become an informed, proactive citizen (or pass your exam depending on your priorities,) understanding the history of leading fashion brands can help you better understand trends, classic pieces, the inspiration for knock-offs, and most importantly, a better understanding of the fashion world itself.

The “Fashion Primer” series will give you 1.) a brief history of the brand and 2.) show which of their pieces changed the fashion game forever.

Background: The first Prada store was opened in 1913 by Mario Prada and his brother, Martino. Beginning in Milan, Italy, the store specialized in leather goods such as handbags, trunks, and accessories. Mario Prada’s granddaughter, Miuccia Prada, inherited the company in 1978. She is attributed with taking Prada from a small family company to the powerhouse fashion firm it is today.

Behind the Look: Miuccia Prada is a punk. Since her early days at college, she found ways to distinguish herself. She rocked the hippie look, studied mime in school, and even joined the Italian Communist Party while dressed in a skirt and her Laures Saint Laurent (Dr. Martins weren’t around yet). Her desire to be classy, yet stand out, is evident in Prada’s iconic edgy, yet classic, Italian style.

How did Prada Change the Fashion Game?

Nylon Products (beginning with the backpack)

In the 1980s, Miuccia decided women needed a bag with a little more spunk–something less traditional and classic. If you see the use of nylon fabric in fashion, it is almost always a play on Prada.

Find look here

The Linea Rosa line

Identified by its futuristic and minimalist vibe, the Linea Rossa line first debuted in 1997. It also gained popularity due to being “casual luxury wear” and using utilitarian material. It is recognizable by its red, Prada ribbon.

Find the look here

The Bowler Handbag

This bag was introduced in the spring of 2000. Functional, classy, and customizable, it became and instant hit.

Does the line from “10 Things I Hate About You” make a little more sense now? Who wouldn’t love their Prada backpack?

Further Reading: PRADA Group, Fashion.Luxury: The Story, Vogue: Prada’s Greatest Moments, Business of Fashion, Vogue: Miuccia Prada, Fashion. Luxury: Bowler Handbag, Vogue: Iconic Moments