Roberto Cavalli S.p.A. is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1970 in Florence, celebrated for its flamboyant, glamorous aesthetic and pioneering innovations in textile design. Known globally for its iconic animal prints and groundbreaking leather printing techniques, the brand operates in the high-end segments of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle, celebrating a joyful and opulent way of living.

Core Business & Brand Portfolio

The company manages a diverse portfolio of lines catering to different market segments:

Roberto Cavalli:
The flagship line focusing on high-end couture, evening gowns, and ready-to-wear for men and women.

Just Cavalli:
Launched in 1998 (some sources say 2000), this youth-oriented diffusion line offers apparel, accessories, watches, and fragrances with a “free spirit”.

Cavalli Class:
An accessible, versatile ready-to-wear collection designed for everyday use while maintaining the brand’s signature bold style.

Roberto Cavalli Junior:
A dedicated fashion line for boys and girls aged 0–16 years.

Roberto Cavalli Home:
Established in 2012, this division offers luxury furniture, wallpapers, tiles, and home textiles through collaborations with specialized Italian partners.

Historical Innovations & Heritage

Founded by designer Roberto Cavalli (1940–2024), the brand revolutionized fashion through several key inventions:

Leather Printing:
In 1970, Cavalli patented a technique for printing on leather and suede, which led to commissions from major houses like Hermès and Pierre Cardin.

Denim Evolution:
Cavalli is credited with creating the first printed jeans (1988), sandblasted jeans (1994), and stretch jeans (1995).

Signature Style:
The “Cavalli look” is defined by exotic animal motifs, vibrant colors, and Mediterranean-inspired glamour.

Ownership & Global Operations

Following financial challenges and a 2019 Chapter 11 filing for its North American operations, the company’s ownership shifted:

Current Ownership:
Since November 2019, the company has been owned by Vision Investment Co. LLC, a private investment firm led by Hussain Sajwani, founder of Dubai-based DAMAC Properties.

Leadership:
Fausto Puglisi has served as the Creative Director since October 2020. Sergio Azzolari was appointed CEO to lead the brand’s relaunch.

Global Presence:
Headquartered in Milan, the company operates a network of approximately 59 direct and 29 franchisee stores worldwide, with products available in over 300 wholesale retail outlets.

Licensing & Expansion

The brand extends its reach through significant licensing agreements:

Fragrances:
The global license for Roberto Cavalli perfumes was recently acquired by Inter Parfums in 2023, previously held by Coty Inc..

Real Estate:
Leveraging its owner’s expertise, the brand has expanded into luxury real estate, including Cavalli-designed villas in Dubai and a $120 million plot in Miami for a new residential division.