Renzo Gherardini

My grandfather Garibaldo, my grandmother Elvira, my paternal aunt Ida, my father Gino, my uncle Ugo, his brother, my mother Norma Maria, my cousin Roberto, my brother Pier Luigi, my sister-in-law Maria Grazia, my cousin Gabriella, Roberto’s wife—all these family members, a small familial army, were the creators and custodians of a remarkable artisanal tradition that grew from a quiet little alley in the historic center of Florence, Via del Fiordaliso, to spread across three continents, establishing a name: Gherardini.

Over one hundred years of history, over one hundred years of beauty that has spread through diverse societies and environments. Destiny assigned me a different calling—one that is humble yet loving: to preserve the memory of that name and the work it represents, an undertaking that is still very much alive today. Thanks to the dedication of the brand’s current managers, the Braccialini family, it is also projected into an equally long future.

Caterina Chiarelli

The Gherardini name hides a remarkable story—the story of a long-lived enterprise that embodies the skill and creativity of Florentine artisans, making it a prestigious representative of Made in Italy. The family members who managed this brand until 1990 gave it an unmistakable identity in style and craftsmanship, constantly innovating and adapting to the ever-changing needs of their customers. Through experimentation and craftsmanship, they continually found the most suitable materials and techniques for each creation. Founded in 1885 as a leather case manufacturer, Gherardini later expanded into other leather goods, especially accessories and handbags. One of the most significant events in its history was the introduction of ultra-light, durable Softy fabric in the 1970s, used to make raincoats and large soft bags.

The “G” monogram became a signature element of Gherardini designs, adorning Softy bags, suitcases, trunks, umbrellas, and raincoats, turning it into an enduring icon and a hallmark of design.

It is reassuring to know that the vast knowledge and expertise of the Gherardini family have not been lost but were taken up by the Florentine Braccialini family, which acquired the brand and launched an international initiative to revive historical models, such as the 1212 bag. Most importantly, artisanal production methods have been preserved, even as the brand expanded globally, particularly in Asia, further promoting Made in Italy worldwide.

Understanding the historical, artistic, and artisanal importance of the brand, Susanna Gherardini, the family heir, decided to donate a collection of Gherardini bags and clutches to the Costume Gallery at the Palazzo Pitti, a museum dedicated to fashion history. These pieces mark significant milestones in the brand’s creations, showcasing unique craftsmanship and timeless designs that align with fashion trends while transcending them. Susanna also donated part of her mother Maria Grazia Lunardi Gherardini’s eccentric wardrobe, which exemplifies how one can be unique and original by commissioning custom pieces from expert couturiers while guiding them with personal ideas on models and styles.

From 1885 to 1950

Garibaldo—the name itself foretold his destiny as a leader of a modern “fashion dynasty,” a champion of beauty and elegance, a defender of artisanal craft, and an embodiment of Florentine style. His surname, Gherardini, carries ancient roots that may even link to the noblewoman Lisa, known as Mona Lisa del Giocondo, the world’s most admired woman, immortalized by Leonardo da Vinci’s enigmatic smile. Too much? Not at all, especially when the life and story of Garibaldo Gherardini are the foundation of a beautiful yet true tale that makes the Gherardini brand—now celebrating 125 years—a magnificent adventure in Made in Italy, the oldest of its kind.

This reality spans the late 19th century, the 20th century, and into the 2000s, holding on to its original values—heart, courage, and passion. These qualities led a hopeful 24-year-old to open a small workshop in the spring of 1885. That young man, bearing the name Garibaldo, symbolic of patriotism and fortitude, lived through the transition of Florence from Italy’s first capital (1865–1870) to the grandeur of Rome without regret.

It was in this city of illusions and disenchantment that Garibaldo grew up. He may have witnessed, as a boy, the bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David being placed in Piazza della Signoria in June 1872, and later the original transported to the Accademia in 1873. His family was immersed in the city’s political and social events, and his father, who gave him such a bold and patriotic name, left an indelible mark on him.

Garibaldo Gherardini was the first great innovator of Made in Italy, long before the world even knew what that meant. His journey began with creating leather cases and expanded into fashion accessories, making him a pioneer and visionary.