Emanuel Ungaro

Emanuel Ungaro, born on February 13, 1933, in Aix-en-Provence, France, was renowned for his exuberant and sensual fashion designs. The son of Italian immigrants, he learned the art of sewing from his father, a tailor. Ungaro moved to Paris at the age of 22, where he later apprenticed under the influential Spanish designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. This mentorship with Balenciaga, coupled with a brief stint at Courrèges, profoundly shaped Ungaro's approach to fashion.

In 1965, Emanuel Ungaro founded his eponymous fashion house, breaking into the industry with a collection celebrated for its bold use of color and innovative silhouettes. His designs quickly garnered attention, establishing Ungaro as a distinctive voice in haute couture. The following year, he moved his operations to a chateau on Avenue Montaigne, a prestigious location which became synonymous with his brand.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Ungaro's reputation flourished. The Ungaro Parallele ready-to-wear line launched in 1968 broadened his reach, allowing more clients to experience his luxurious designs. His creations, often characterized by their vivid prints, intricate draping, and daring combinations of textures, became a favorite among celebrities and the elite.

In 1983, Ungaro expanded into the fragrance market with the launch of "Diva," his first perfume. This success was followed by subsequent popular fragrances, solidifying the brand’s position in the luxury market. Throughout the late 20th century, his bold aesthetic and meticulous craftsmanship continued to draw acclaim.

In 1996, Emanuel Ungaro took a significant step by selling his company to the Salvatore Ferragamo Group, allowing for greater expansion and innovation within the brand. Although Ungaro himself retired in 2004, his legacy endured through his influential designs and the talented successors who carefully upheld his vision.

Emanuel Ungaro passed away on December 21, 2019. His impact on the world of fashion remains influential, remembered for his vibrant, unapologetic approach to design and his role in shaping modern haute couture.