OUR HISTORY
Allow us to share our story with you, of how a childhood dream has blossomed into a lifelong legacy that will last for generations.
CREATING THE FINEST MODA POSITANO SINCE 1961.
IT ALL BEGAN IN POSITANO
In the years following the Second World War, Positano was transformed from a humble seaside village into a sanctuary for artists, intellectuals and visionaries. The village, with its unpretentious charm and breathtaking scenery, became a breeding ground for creativity. When the world's cultural elite sought refuge in Positano, they inadvertently elevated its status, making it a centre of artistic inspiration. This unique atmosphere, where the remnants of a war-torn past met the promise of a brighter future, paved the way for an extraordinary legacy in the world of fashion, one that would be shaped by a young girl whose talent, vision and passion would later become one of the founding pillars of what we know today as “Positano Fashion”.
THE GENESIS OF A DREAM
Louisa's journey into the world of fashion began in her father's grocery shop. It was there, surrounded by the daily rhythms of the shop, that she nurtured her creative instinct. Day after day, she nurtured her dream, creating miniature clothes from the paper used to wrap bread. She meticulously arranged these paper patterns on a shelf, arranging them as if they were the fashion collection she imagined one day creating.These early acts of creativity were the first steps in her journey towards a meaningful career in fashion, laying the foundation for the innovations that would later define her legacy.
THE CREATION OF THE LOUISE BRAND.
Everything led to this moment.Having recognised his daughter's talent, Luisa's father, Gennaro, supported her in the opening of her first shop.On 31 March 1961, the official Louise boutique opened in Positano, with its interior and branding designed by local artist Roberto Scielzo.The name Louise was chosen to represent a brand with local roots and international appeal, perfectly in line with Luisa's vision. Scielzo, who was deeply involved in the project, designed the logo and encapsulated this vision, telling her: ‘Luisa, everything must be born from the flower. ’Little did she know that the seed (her idea) she planted at that moment would become a flower, which would not only be the symbol of her shop and her life, but would also become the foundation of what we know today as ‘Moda Positano’.
THE ORIGINAL STONE LOGO
THE LOUISE STORE
THE SYNERGY BETWEEN VISION AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
Luisa's initial venture focused on buying and selling clothes, but she soon realised that her true passion was the creation of original designs.
Determined to bring her fashion ideas to life, she assembled a team of Positano's most skilled tailors, whose craftsmanship continues to set a high standard of excellence. Together, they transformed her workshop into a thriving centre of creativity, producing garments that embodied both elegance and quality.The pieces she conceived and made in the workshop were then moved downstairs to the main shop, where they began to receive direct feedback from customers.
The joy and satisfaction expressed by customers, especially when they came back to buy more, affirmed one of Louisa's fundamental principles:
the garments had to be of the highest quality, designed to last and remain elegant.
This commitment to quality was highlighted when Princess Santa Borghese Hercolani visited the boutique, requesting Bermuda shorts that were both fashionable and durable.
She emphasised,
‘Luisa, please, they have to be of the highest quality because they have to stand the test of time. ’
This interaction, among others, reinforced Louisa's dedication to creating timeless, high quality fashion that resonated deeply with her customers.
THE FAMILY AS THE FOUNDATION OF SUCCESS
As Louisa's brand grew in prominence, so did her personal life.Her marriage to Mario Meroni, a man whose international experience and business acumen complemented his creative talents, was instrumental in the expansion of the Louise brand.
Together, they nurtured both their family and the company, with Mario playing a key role in expanding the brand's reach beyond Positano.
Their shared vision and collaboration ensured that the Louise brand remained resilient and adaptive, even as it evolved into a prominent name.
THE BLOSSOMING OF A LEGENDARY BRAND
The introduction of Louisa's son, Manlio, and her daughter Marianna's husband, Nico, marked the beginning of a new phase for the Louise brand.
Together with their four children - Leonardo, Marina, Simona and Miriana - they have inspired new energy in the company, beginning the next chapter of its growth.
At heart, Louise has always been more than just fashion: it is a deep passion for design, a celebration of love for Positano and an unwavering commitment to family. These values have guided the brand's evolution, leading to the creation of fabrics inspired by the natural beauty of Positano.
These vibrant floral designs in cotton and embellished silk have become hallmarks of Louise's collections, attracting attention from around the world and consolidating the brand's position in the global fashion industry.
1996
Nico and Manlio
2021
Nico and Manlio
The brand’s dedication to timeless craftsmanship has earned recognition in fashion magazines, newspapers, and iconic events like ModaMare Positano. Its creations, embraced by global icons like Heidi Klum and beloved national figures such as Belen Rodriguez, reflect Louise's vision of femininity as a whole in every design.
NEWSPAPER
Publications
HEIDI KLUM
Dressed in Louise
BELEN RODRIGUEZ
Dressed in Louise
A NEW CHAPTER IN OUR HISTORY
A true family legacy, the shop now represents three generations working side by side, blending tradition with a modern vision.
This continuity is a testament to Louise's dream, lovingly carried on by her family, where every design is imbued with the values that began in that colourful shop in Positano. It is a place where femininity and magic intertwine, where every creation tells a story of love, care and craftsmanship.
From the careful hands that sew each stitch to the passion that drives every decision, this legacy is one of authenticity and dedication. Embracing the future and honouring the past, the brand ensures that Louise's vision lives on, not just in the shop or in the designs, but in the wardrobes and hearts of those who wear them.
This is more than fashion; it is a celebration of family, tradition and timeless beauty that transcends generations.