Established in 1951, Max Mara was instantly revolutionary in its approach to luxury fashion. The brand made high-end collections more widely accessible through the manufacturing of garments rather than through the traditional hand-made route which was typical of the time. The founder, Achille Maramotti recognised the benefits of mass production, and launched Max Mara to produce luxurious clothing for lower prices than had been seen before. The Italian brand’s name derives from ‘Mara’, from the founder’s surname, and ‘Max’, who was a local character known to Achille who was always stylish. Today, Max Mara remains owned by the Maramotti family, with Ian Griffiths as Creative Director.
Producing womenswear, bags, shoes and accessories, as well as a bridal line, Max Mara is consistently elegant and timeless. Their designs often centre upon classic silhouettes met with a minimalist aesthetic which endure impeccably throughout time and against constantly changing trends. Streamlined shapes and gentle tailoring produce refined and wearable collections which exude luxury. Max Mara is best known for their beautiful coats, which appear both modern and sophisticated in a range of neutral shades. This muted colour palette applies to wider collections, consisting of cream, grey and white, interjected by deep reds and rich navys. Crafted from fine materials, signature camel coats, tailored trouser and structured bags have remained popular throughout the lifespan of the brand and to this day. Easy silk shirts, cotton dresses and wool trousers are effortless wardrobe staples which have a simple, graceful appeal.
With stores across the world, Max Mara can be found from London to Beijing to New York. Their designs can also be accessed online via the brand’s website, and through stockists such as Harrods, My Theresa and Selfridges.