Luciano Soprani (1946 – 23 October 1999) was an Italian fashion designer known for his tailored, colourful men's suits and silk evening gowns.
Luciano Soprani | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1946 Reggiolo, Italy |
| Died | 23 October 1999 (aged 52–53) |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Occupation | Fashion designer |
| Label | Luciano Soprani S.r.l. |
| Children | Lorenzo |
| Website | http://www.lucianosoprani.it |
Early life
Soprani was born in Reggiolo[1] in 1946[citation needed] to a family of farmers[1] in the province of Reggio Emilia. After studying agriculture, he decided that he was more interested in fashion, and in 1967 he joined the local firm of Max Mara[1] in Reggio Emilia. He stayed there for nearly eight years,[1] before moving to Milan in 1974.[2] As a freelancer, he worked with labels such as Heliette, Basile, Nazareno, Gabrielli and Gucci.[2]
Business
In 1982 he set up his own label, while continuing to work for other houses such as Gucci.[1] He was also a wardrobe designer for the 1990 film Wild Orchid.[3]
In 1992 Soprani fell out with his Japanese business partner, Onward Kashiyama Co., Ltd., who owned 70% of Luciano Soprani SpA. Soprani dissociated himself from the company, whilst seeking to regain use of the trademark.
Soprani died of throat cancer in a hospital in Milan, on 23 October 1999.[1]
His friend Dilio Ortigoza succeeded him as designer at the company,[citation needed] to be followed by Alessandro Turci in 2002.[4] Studio Soprani was acquired by the perfume company Satinine S.p.a., and renamed Luciano Soprani S.r.l. in January 2006.[4]