Margherita Carries on the Missoni Legacy

By Emmi Kern

We’ll never know for sure what hopes Ottavio and Rosita Missoni had when they opened their first workshop in 1953. The shop sold knitwear, including sweaters, scarves and jackets and was near Rosita’s hometown in Gallarate, Italy. Maybe they simply wanted to run a modestly successful business and raise their children near their extended family. Or, perhaps they had grander aspirations in mind, considering the European fashion explosion that was taking place around that time. In any case, the couple got their wishes and then some, when, thanks to their hard work, talent, and some lucky breaks, they ended up taking their place in the high fashion pantheon, and leaving an impressive legacy for their descendants.

One of those descendants, granddaughter Margherita Missoni-Amos, has used her designer pedigree as well as her own experience and talents to carve out a niche for herself in the fashion world. Margherita began modeling for the family business at a young age and by the age of 20 had been named one of the world’s most beautiful women by influential industry publications. After college, she felt the design itch kick in, but she wanted to go a different way from what the Missoni brand was known for. She was drawn to children’s fashions, and felt that as a former youth model she had a knowledgeable perspective on the industry. Later, when she married and became a mom to her son Otto, she was even further inspired to put her gifts to use by starting a company that bore her own name and vision.

The Milan-based Margherita brand offers clothing for baby boys and baby girls, as well as for girls up to size 10. Missoni-Amos grew up with plenty of freedom to express herself through fashion, and she wanted her line to encourage kids to do the same, so she chose a charming bohemian look that allowed for mixing and matching.

The pieces are made to be comfortable and easy to move around in, and the colors are mainly classics like pink, white, and navy blue. The girls’ line is heavy on dresses, but does offer pants as well. There’s a recurring floral theme throughout the line, with daisies and other blooms appearing in both subtle patterns and bold prints. Kids will love the easygoing feel of the clothing, while parents can take pride in the high quality and the distinction of the designer label.

For more information, visit www.margheritakids.com