Neapolitan leather goods brand known for its historic craftsmanship and elegant, accessible handbag and footwear designs.
ORIGIN
Italy
PRICE TIER
contemporary
Founded in Naples in 1952, Mario Valentino is a historic Italian brand rooted in a family tradition of high-quality leather craftsmanship. Mario, son of a local shoemaker, quickly distinguished himself by creating elegant and innovative footwear, gaining international acclaim for designs like the iconic coral sandal featured in French Vogue in 1956. The brand became a leader in leather goods, attracting a clientele that included Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, and artists like Andy Warhol. During the 1970s and 80s, Mario Valentino collaborated with designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Gianni Versace, expanding into avant-garde clothing and cementing its reputation for superior leatherwork.