Italian fashion house Luisa Spagnoli has opened its first mono-brand boutique in Dubai’s The Dubai Mall. The store, which opened on September 21, showcases the brand’s timeless elegance and caters to a younger clientele, including Generation Z. Nicoletta Spagnoli, the creative director, president, and CEO of the family-owned company, spoke with Khaleej Times about her great-grandmother, Luisa Spagnoli, who founded the brand in the late 1920s. Luisa Spagnoli was one of the first female entrepreneurs in Italy and was known for her passion, courage, determination, and kindness.
Luisa Spagnoli’s inspiring life story is currently being made into a TV movie biopic, with shooting taking place in Budapest. In addition to founding her fashion house, Luisa Spagnoli also established a successful chocolate factory, Perugina, in 1907. She was a trailblazer in a time when women were denied many opportunities and was known for her resourcefulness. Nicoletta, who leads the almost all-female company today, takes great pride in her great-grandmother’s legacy.
Nicoletta’s journey into the fashion industry was a natural one, as she developed a passion for drawing from a young age. She recalls visiting the Luisa Spagnoli company with her sister, where they were taught drawing techniques by female designers. Many famous celebrities, including Lana Turner, Sofia Loren, and Princess Kate Middleton, have chosen the label over the years.
When it comes to her work, Nicoletta designs clothes that she herself would wear, focusing on creating timeless and elegant pieces that make women feel good. Balancing the creative and business aspects of managing the brand is a challenge, but one that she faces head-on.
The latest collection, Spring-Summer 2024, draws inspiration from the 1970s and combines it with the urban style of contemporary women. The collection features new cuts that are elegant yet daring.
After the challenges posed by the pandemic, Luisa Spagnoli has resumed its expansion plans abroad and chose Dubai as its next destination. The United Arab Emirates market is strategic for the brand, and Dubai, with its international status, offers a prime location for a single-brand boutique. The flagship store, located on the first floor of The Dubai Mall, covers 100 square meters and provides an excellent opportunity to reach an international clientele.
Looking ahead, Nicoletta is eager to personally visit the new store and understand the wants and needs of local customers. She also expresses the desire to bring a fashion show to Dubai and showcase the “Made in Italy” label, which represents Italian know-how, passion, attention to detail, and precision.
Luisa Spagnoli’s expansion into Dubai reflects the brand’s commitment to offering timeless elegance to women around the world, with the UAE market being a significant part of its international future.
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