Marimekko was founded in 1951 by Finnish couple, Armi and Viljo Ratia. Marimekko, translated literally means “Mary-dress.” Known for their bold, effusive textiles and readymade products, Marimekko has become a respected name in the design world. Worn by style icon Jackie Kennedy, Marimekko is synonymous with all that is modern, chic and sophisticated.
From the very beginning, Marimekko was a company made by women for women. The company’s CEO, Armi Ratia, was responsible for making the avant garde designs of female artists like Maija Isola a part of the Marimekko identity. In the 1960s, bold prints and boxy fashions became the height of fashion in Finland and abroad, launching Marimekko into the international arena.
Today Marimekko is a leading textile company, producing fabrics and readymade items for stores all over the world. Their designs can be seen in places as varied as Crate and Barrel and H&M.
More on Marimekko’s history can be found here.
Source: Marimekko: Fabrics, Fashion, Architecture
