Prada. The name alone signifies style and luxury, designer handbags and fabulous shoes. Born nearly a century ago, The House of Prada is recognized worldwide for its simple and elegant creations.

The Prada empire, now worth well over £1bn a year, was built on a bag. After more than 70 years as a small leather goods business, the company was catapulted into the big league in the late Eighties when its finely woven black nylon bags became the fashion accessory for the international style set. Now the group owns a whole portfolio of luxury goods brands which also includes designers Jil Sander and Azzedine Alaia.