Mila Schön, the renowned fashion house headquartered in Milan, has announced the appointment of Marc Audibet as its new creative director. This move is part of a major investment plan to revive the brand and bring it back to its former glory. Audibet, a highly experienced French-born designer, will showcase his first collection for Mila Schön in February during Milan’s women’s ready-to-wear catwalk season.
Marc Audibet has an impressive career history, having worked for several prestigious fashion houses including Nino Cerruti, Biagiotti, Balmain, Trussardi, Hermès, Maison Vionnet, Trussardi, and Madame Grès. His appointment is a crucial step in Mila Schön’s “new strategic plan,” which involves a group of Italian investors teaming up with Itochu, a Japanese trading company, to breathe new life into the brand.
A newly formed company called Cofedo will oversee Mila Schön and focus on expanding its presence internationally in Europe, the United States, and Asia. The goal is to double the brand’s sales within the next three years. The company will be headquartered in Milan, where Mila Schön was originally established 65 years ago.
The leadership team spearheading this operation consists of CEO Guido Formilli Fendi, who previously held positions at Fendi, and president Barbara Gabarrini Confalonieri, an entrepreneur. Marc Audibet will also play a crucial role in this team.
Mila Schön, the founder of the brand, passed away in 2008 but left behind a legacy of dressing prominent figures such as Jacqueline Kennedy and Brooke. The brand gained significant recognition when Marella Agnelli wore a hand-embroidered kaftan by Mila Schön to Truman Capote’s famous black and white ball.
Guido Formilli Fendi believes that this partnership will bring about a new era of growth and consolidation for Mila Schön, positioning it as one of the top international fashion and lifestyle brands. The investment presents an exceptional opportunity for the brand to become a global leader in the luxury market and showcase the best of “Made in Italy.”
Barbara Gabarrini Confalonieri commended Audibet’s talent, intuition, and extensive experience in working with fabrics and silhouettes. As part of the brand’s new direction, Audibet will be instrumental in achieving their goals and establishing Mila Schön as a leader in the affordable luxury segment. He will reinterpret the brand’s aesthetic heritage in fresh and innovative ways through its clothing collections, as well as provide a strong vision for footwear and accessories.
Founded in 1958 by Mila Schön, the fashion house quickly gained recognition for its Italian take on French couture styles. Throughout the years, Mila Schön accomplished various milestones, such as opening a boutique on Via Montenapoleone, designing uniforms for Air Italia, being the first Italian designer to showcase ready-to-wear in Japan, dressing the Italian team for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and receiving the prestigious Neiman Marcus Award.
Despite experiencing a decline in recent years, Mila Schön’s strong DNA, coupled with new financial backing and the leadership of Marc Audibet, has generated excitement for its upcoming relaunch. Fashion enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting Audibet’s debut collection and the brand’s revival.
For more information on Mila Schön, visit their official website: Website.
To get a glimpse of Marc Audibet’s previous designs, check out his portfolio: Portfolio.
