DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: MISSONI

-The Missoni Clan

It seems that every time we reach into our closet these days, we're pulling something Missoni to start our look. Nothing but nothing works better for these bright and blustery pre-Spring days, than pieces from the iconic Italian knitwear company. Formed in 1953, by husband and wife team Ottavio & Rosita Missoni and championed by US VOGUE's Diana Vreeland for their geomtric squiggle knits, the Missoni label catapulted to cult-like status in 1967 when the duo sent models in gossamer lame' blouses down the runways sans brassieres at their show in the Pitti Palace. 40 years later, the label still stands for a seamless mix of style and sexiness. In 1998, the couple's daughter Angela took over the direction of the brand, while Rosita and Ottavio still design and develop Missoni home and textile projects. Under their tutelage, Missoni, along with the Rezidor Hotel Group, is slated to open 30 Missoni boutique hotels by 2012, with outposts in Kuwait, Edinburgh, London, Paris, France, Miami and Kiev.

Picture it: a room entirely designed in signature Missoni block colors and geometric graphics. Missoni sheets, Missoni towels, Missoni hangers, Missoni shoe trees . . . I mean, have you ever heard of anything so chic in all your life? Us neither. Until the first one opens its doors, we'll just have to be content with bringing Italian modernism to our closets.

*Missoni plaid Adelaide coat. In a size 42. Originally priced at $4705 and priced at $1600.

**Missoni camel wool cropped coat. fully lined with signature Missoni knit. In a size 42. New with tags and originally retailed for $2930. Priced at $1100.

***Missoni V-Neck Squiggle knit sweater. In a size 42. New with tags and originally retailed for $1700. Priced at $610.

****Missoni jade and pink squiggle knit cashmere/silk sweater set. In a size 46. New with tags and originally retailed for $2000. Priced at $770.

*****Missoni striped knit dress with ruffle hem. Approximately a US size 6. Priced at $600.

******Missoni brown and taupe squiggle knit wrap front dress. In a size 42. New with tags and priced at $895.

For further information or to purchase, please contact: lizzy@decadestwo.com