Les Copains

founded by

Mario Bandiera

about

Les Copains is one of the most well known and reliable names in ready-to-wear fashion in Italy and through the world. The brand name was created in the late ‘50s and takes its name from the title of a popular French radio show, “Salut Les Copains”.

This was the start of the career of Mario Bandiera, who was otherwise fated to work in the antique business, like his father. He immediately captured the industry's attention with a beautiful knitwear collection. Knitwear became a style associated with freedom, and was to be at the center of the company's industrial development, which, in the 1960s, was based on what can be defined as Les Copains' historical creation: the mini-pull.

The company achieved one success after another, and was even praised by The New York Times, when in 1973 it praised the company's new women's prêt-à-porter line.

Since its founding, Les Copains has always been considered a symbol of the “Made in Italy” tradition in terms of creativity, industrial technique and quality. The predominate element is knitwear, a symbol of style, glamour, freedom and excellence. Cashmere, above all else, remains Les Copains’ first love even as the brand evolves through the years; contemporary and stylistically consistent through the use of technological innovations and special treatments of the material.

Antonio Marras has been the designer for them since 1996, but prematurely ended his contract in April 2005, due to overextension. The designer for the main Les Copains label, Antonio Berardi, took over upon Marras's sudden exit, only to stay a few years before his contract ended in February 2008. With Albino D'Amato at the helm as of April 2008, the growth of Trend Les Copains seems to have moved to the backburner, as D'Amato turns the house's attention more toward men's and the main Les Copains line.

To create its collections. Les Copains counts on a young and international creative team lead by world renowned designers. Success is the outcome of an unwavering commitment to create a perfect equilibrium between quality, modern elegance and tradition.

To complete the charm of the Les Copains brand, all the collections are beautifully garnished with accessories created in collaboration with the best companies of the field.

They have various lines including Les Copains Woman, Les Copains Man, Les Copains Sport, Les Copains Cashmere, Trend Les Copains, Blue Les Copains and Jeans Les Copains. They also have a line of baby wear.

Les Copains is in the market with free standing and specialties boutiques in the most prestigious locations around the world.

Investments in the distribution structure and expansion in retail in new strategic markets strengthen the Company’s presence on an international level in the most prestigious cities.

Already well known as an Italian symbol of charm in Europe, North America, and Asia, during the last few seasons Les Copains has been engaged in new projects of expansion in Russia and the Far East. As such, the Company projects a considerable growth rate in the next few years.