Moschino

Franco Moschino, (1950-1994) fashion rebel’s wacky, imaginative and irreverent designer never failed to entertain – or occasionally ruffle the legal feathers of established fashion houses.

Born near Milan in 1950, he studied art then began his career in 1971 as a sketcher for Giorgio Armani, drawing publicity campaigns for the various Italian ready-to-wear houses Armani designed for at the time – including Beged-Or and Genny. After a stint with Cadette and some freelance design work for Italian ready-to-wear companies, Moschino launched his own company, Moonshadow S.p.A., in 1983 with his Moschino Collection.

By the time he showed his second collection, he was internationally known for his provocative and irreverent styles. He parodied the glamour and sophistication of other designers, making jest of their high prices and trademarks. His disrepect for the established fashion business led to several copyright infringement battles with other fashion houses, including Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Although Moschino was always ready to shock with an outrageous idea, his clothes were wearable and cut to the highest standards — thanks to his expertise as a tailor. Some of his zany motifs included a dinner suit with a knife and fork appliquéd to its bodice, blazers with windmill buttons, and a polka dot Minnie Mouse dress. In 1988, he launched his Cheap and Chic line, a collection of lower priced but equally whimsical designs.

Since his untimely death in 1994, Moschino’s spirited legacy continues with his closest collaborator, Rossella Jardini, at the design helm of the company — expanding it from cheeky chic fashion offerings to perfume and accessories. A portion of the company’s profits funds the Moschino Foundation, a charity founded to assist HIV-positive children.

Written by cosmiccowgirl