Inside the World of ETRO: The Bohemian Baroque Empire Redefining Italian Luxury
From paisley-drenched roots to global fashion houses, discover how ETRO’s kaleidoscopic flair, family legacy, and quiet business power are rewriting the story of Italian design.
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: LATEST UPDATES IN FASHION AND HAUTE COUTURE NEWS
6/13/2025
A Legacy Woven in Paisley and Passion
Founded in 1968 by Gerolamo "Gimmo" Etro in Milan, ETRO began as a textile design company, drawing inspiration from a vast collection of antique shawls amassed by Gimmo and his wife, Roberta. This collection, one of the largest private assortments of antique shawls, laid the foundation for ETRO's signature paisley patterns, introduced in 1981 .
The brand's headquarters, located on Via Spartaco in Milan, houses the Paisley textile art archive and an evocative company library, reflecting ETRO's deep-rooted commitment to art and design .
From Family Roots to Global Recognition
ETRO has remained a family-run business, with Gimmo's children taking on pivotal roles: Kean Etro led the men's collections, Veronica Etro oversaw women's fashion, Jacopo Etro managed accessories and home collections, and Ippolito Etro handled administrative functions . In 2021, a significant shift occurred when L Catterton, a private equity firm backed by LVMH, acquired a 60% stake in ETRO, marking the brand's transition from a family-owned entity to a more expansive global
A Diverse Portfolio of Luxury Offerings
ETRO's product range has evolved over the decades, encompassing:
Ready-to-Wear Collections: Known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, ETRO's men's and women's clothing lines blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
Accessories: Including scarves, ties, and shawls that showcase the brand's iconic paisley motifs.
Leather Goods: Handbags and luggage pieces that combine durability with distinctive design elements.
Fragrances: A line of perfumes that capture the essence of ETRO's aesthetic.
Home Collections: Extending the brand's design philosophy into home décor, offering items like wallpapers and furnishings .
Financial Trajectory and Strategic Vision
In recent years, ETRO has faced financial challenges. In 2023, the company reported a net revenue of €261 million, a decrease from €277 million in 2022, and a loss of €33.4 million compared to a €28.3 million loss the previous year .The MBS Group. To revitalise the brand, ETRO appointed Marco De Vincenzo as the creative director in June 2022. De Vincenzo aims to modernise ETRO's image, targeting younger demographics by introducing contemporary designs while preserving the brand's heritage .
Experience ETRO at JOHNYCARRIBEAN.COM
Explore our curated selection of ETRO products at JOHNYCARRIBEAN.COM. From bold ready-to-wear pieces to timeless accessories, immerse yourself in the world of ETRO and discover the perfect addition to your luxury collection.
