The History of Ferragamo

A passion for shoemaking has turned this Italian brand into a lifestyle powerhouse that defines la dolce vita.

The Hotels: Salvatore Ferragamo’s son Leonardo runs the Lungarno Collection, including Hotel Lungarno in Florence; another son, Massimo, opened Tuscany’s Castiglion del Bosco.

The Clothes: Salvatore’s daughter Giovanna introduced ready-to-wear in 1965. Ferragamo’s Fall 2012 collection is by current creative director Massimiliano Giornetti.

The Stars: After opening a Hollywood shop in 1923, Salvatore Ferragamo became an A-list favorite.

The Shoes: Men’s loafers were launched in the 1970’s—instant classics.

The Museum: Rotating exhibitions at the company’s Florence headquarters showcase famous Ferragamo pieces, including the stiletto heels Marilyn Monroe wore in 1959’s Some Like It Hot.

The Innovations: Among Ferragamo’s more than 350 patents? The cork-soled wedge. One version was designed for Judy Garland in 1938. Pictured; $2,500.

The Luggage: A new addition to the brand’s repertoire: rolling bags, available in aluminum and leather. From $1,500.