Roberto Cavalli
Italy
Roberto Cavalli is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1975 by the Florence-born designer of the same name, who died in 2024. Ownership has changed several times, and a May 2026 report points to a new owner, Marquee Brands.
| Founded | 1975 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Roberto Cavalli (1940 to 2024) |
| Owner | Reported sale to Marquee Brands in May 2026; previously Vision Investments (2019) |
| Operating company | Roberto Cavalli Operating S.r.l. |
| Segment | Luxury and designer houses |
| Website | robertocavalli.com |
What is Roberto Cavalli?
Roberto Cavalli is an Italian luxury house known for bold prints, glamorous eveningwear and denim. According to Wikipedia it was established in 1975 by the designer Roberto Cavalli (1940 to 2024), born near Florence. The official site lists women's, men's and children's collections, eyewear, watches, the Just Cavalli line and home decor.
History
- Early 1970s: Cavalli patented a leather printing process and presented it in Paris.
- 1972: first boutique in Saint-Tropez.
- 1994: introduced sand-blasted jeans.
- 2000: launched the diffusion line Just Cavalli.
- 2014: returned as men's creative director.
Ownership
Italian Wikipedia reports that the investor Clessidra SGR bought 90 per cent of the group in 2015, that the company sought creditor protection in 2019, and that Vision Investments, linked to the Dubai businessman Hussain Sajwani of DAMAC Properties, acquired it in November 2019. The English Wikipedia article states that Marquee Brands acquired the brand from DAMAC in May 2026. This second point rests on one source and should be treated with care. The footer of the official site names Roberto Cavalli Operating S.r.l.
Business model and distribution
Wikipedia reports that the main line is sold in more than 50 countries, with boutiques including Saint Barth, Venice and Saint-Tropez. The Just Cavalli line has included cafes in Florence and Milan. The brand also sells online through its own site, and the central office moved from Milan to Osmannoro near Florence in 2016.
Creative direction
Paul Surridge succeeded Peter Dundas in May 2017 and resigned in March 2019, according to Italian Wikipedia. The sources reviewed do not name a verified creative director for 2026.
Why it matters
Roberto Cavalli shows how a founder-led Italian house can pass through private equity, insolvency protection and Gulf investment, and it remains a recognisable name in glamorous Italian fashion.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Roberto Cavalli?
Vision Investments, linked to Hussain Sajwani of DAMAC Properties, acquired the group in 2019. English Wikipedia reports that Marquee Brands bought the brand from DAMAC in May 2026, which should be checked against company announcements.
Where is Roberto Cavalli from?
Roberto Cavalli is an Italian brand founded in 1975 by the designer Roberto Cavalli, who was born near Florence.