Dressing like Miuccia Prada, the eternal icon of Ugly Chic
The key pieces to dress like Milanese designer Miuccia Prada, who became a symbol of Ugly Chic style (since 1996)
While street-style fashion proposes looks that shift according to the latest trends, Miuccia Prada has always remained faithful to her unique and inimitable style (which we occasionally glimpse on the runways of Prada and Miu Miu). Since her first fashion show in 1988, the Milanese designer has carved out a path for a distinctive wardrobe that we could define as iconic—fully embodying her personality. We see it in her stylistic imprint as well as in her rare appearances, or during the final bow at her fashion shows. She is indeed the true symbol of Ugly Chic.
The defining fashion show dates back to 1996: monastic blouses, neatly buttoned up, “lady-like” knee-length skirts, comfortable shoes such as loafers or chunky heels. All of this in a pastel palette paired with brown, gray, black, and burgundy—colors that, at the time, were considered “out.” “[Miuccia’s clothing] is ultimately about discomfort—whether aesthetic, ideological, or somehow ephemeral; it’s ephemeral because the ugliness Prada provokes with this season becomes the new beauty,” wrote Alexander Fury in his 2014 essay, Miuccia Prada: Master of 'Ugly'. It’s a fashion that transcends time, marking a style rather than a fleeting trend. Time has certainly given her the credit she deserves, to the extent that this collection was even featured on the big screen in Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis (where the designer created Priscilla’s wardrobe).
Madame Miuccia Prada set a precedent almost 30 years ago, and today her “followers” dress just like her. The inspiration is often “granny-style,” but skillfully reinterpreted to make it radiant rather than dull. It’s the use of color or the styling detail that makes the outfit contemporary. Arm cuffs are worn over sweater sleeves, pearl necklaces peek in and out of collars, the “sciura” (lady-like) sweater is colorful or tied around the shoulders, while knit sets are mismatched. Even unflattering hemlines—those at knee length—win over fashionistas, who pair them with tights and loafers or Mary Jane black heels. Finally, the defining touch of Miuccia Prada’s style is her choice of vibrant colors like Fern Green, which stands out even against all-black ensembles.
