Fendi — 100 Years: What You Need to Know About the History of the Fashion House
In 2025, Fendi celebrates its 100th anniversary, marking a century of unparalleled craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless Italian luxury. From a small fur and leather boutique in Rome to a global powerhouse of high fashion, the brand has remained a symbol of elegance and creativity. Let’s take a look at Fendi’s remarkable journey through the decades.
1925: The Birth of Fendi
Fendi was founded in 1925 by Adele and Edoardo Fendi as a fur and leather shop on Via del Plebiscito in Rome. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship quickly attracted a loyal clientele. The boutique became a go-to destination for luxurious handbags, coats, and accessories, setting the foundation for Fendi’s future success.
The 1940s–1950s: A Family Affair
After Edoardo’s passing, Adele Fendi and her five daughters—Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla, and Alda—took over the business. Each daughter played a significant role in the company, bringing modern ideas and expanding Fendi’s presence beyond Italy. Their innovative approach to fur, transforming it into lighter and more wearable pieces, became a turning point for the brand.
1965: Karl Lagerfeld Joins Fendi
One of the most pivotal moments in Fendi’s history was the arrival of Karl Lagerfeld in 1965. Hired as the creative director for fur and women’s ready-to-wear, Lagerfeld revolutionized the way fur was perceived. His experimental techniques and bold designs led to the creation of iconic pieces, such as the shaved mink and intarsia fur coats. It was also Lagerfeld who introduced the legendary «FF» (Fun Fur) logo, which became a signature of the house.
The 1970s–1980s: Expansion and Global Recognition
Under Lagerfeld’s creative direction and the Fendi sisters’ leadership, the brand expanded internationally. Fendi introduced ready-to-wear collections, branching out beyond fur and leather goods. In 1977, the first Fendi prêt-à-porter collection debuted, cementing its place in the luxury fashion industry. The 1980s saw the brand’s presence grow even further, with boutiques opening worldwide.
1997: The Baguette Bag and the ‘It’ Moment
Silvia Venturini Fendi, the granddaughter of Adele and Edoardo, played a crucial role in shaping Fendi’s modern identity. In 1997, she designed the Baguette bag, a small shoulder bag meant to be tucked under the arm like a French baguette. Thanks to its appearance in Sex and the City, the Baguette became one of the first true «It bags» of the late 1990s and early 2000s, solidifying Fendi’s reputation for must-have accessories.
2001: LVMH Acquires Fendi
In 2001, luxury conglomerate LVMH acquired a majority stake in Fendi, bringing the brand into its prestigious portfolio. The investment allowed Fendi to expand further, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. The brand also ventured into haute couture, presenting exquisite Haute Fourrure collections that redefined fur craftsmanship.
2019: The End of an Era and a New Beginning
In 2019, the fashion world mourned the passing of Karl Lagerfeld after more than 50 years with Fendi. Silvia Venturini Fendi took on the role of creative director for accessories and menswear, ensuring the brand’s legacy continued. In 2020, British designer Kim Jones was appointed as the artistic director of womenswear, bringing a fresh perspective to Fendi’s ready-to-wear collections.
2025: Fendi at 100 – A Century of Style
A century after its founding, Fendi remains at the forefront of luxury fashion. The brand continues to honor its heritage while embracing innovation, from sustainability initiatives in fur production to cutting-edge digital campaigns. The Baguette bag, Peekaboo, and Selleria collections are still iconic, and collaborations with contemporary artists keep Fendi’s designs relevant for new generations.
As Fendi celebrates 100 years, one thing is certain: its legacy of craftsmanship, creativity, and Italian elegance will continue to shape the fashion world for decades to come.
Fendi’s Legacy in Three Words: Innovation, Elegance, Heritage.
