Fun fact. Did you know that Moncler was the first name in fashion to ever reach the K2 summit at just two years old? Their signature quilted ‘Duvet’ Jacket was famously worn by alpine adventurers Achille Compagnoni and Lino Lacedelli, the first people in history to successfully conquer the world’s second biggest mountain in 1954. If that isn’t proof that a Moncler jacket can withstand the harshest of elements, we don’t know what is.

From very humble beginnings, the label experienced a meteoric rise to unprecedented heights as one of the biggest names in luxury fashion, cementing their position in mountaineering history forever at over 28,000 feet. Later expanding into a trifecta made up of: Moncler, Moncler Genius and Moncler Grenoble. Their distinctive emblem can now be instantly spotted and recognised anywhere from the slopes to the city streets, keeping Grandchildren and their Grandmas alike warm with universal style appeal. Even all these years on from the K2 summit exploration, the DNA and mountaineering spirit of the pieces the alpinists wore still lives on in every Moncler collection. 

Three months ago, the winter wear explorers celebrated their 71st anniversary at the forefront of design innovation. In celebration of this epic milestone, we’re taking a look at the time-transcending Moncler empire.

Shop Moncler

In 1952 (just two years before its K2 expedition), the small boutique popped up in a quaint alpine village in France, Monestier-de-Clermont, which inspired the name to founders Rene Ramillon and Andre Vincent. At the start, their specialty was equipping local cold-weather workers and skiers with tents, quilted sleeping bags and hooded capes.

In 1954 the world-renowned down-padded jacket was born and the rest is history… Pinnacle moments in the historical fashion timeline include: Dressing the entire French downhill ski team in the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics, and becoming the unofficial uniform of Milan’s paninari subculture in the ‘80s. In 2000, Moncler Enfant was born, delivering bite-sized versions of their iconic styles, dressing the next-generation of skiers worldwide. 

It’s no surprise they’re so popular amongst the fashionset and alpinists alike. Defined by their vibrant palette, lustrous finishes and the iconic cockerel logo on the left shoulder, the outerwear collections are not only weather-defying but effortlessly sleek too. Filled with the highest-quality down feathers and crafted from windproof and waterproof materials, they’re perfect to grab on your way up a mountain or for a brisk walk around the park. From the iconic Cashmere Knit Beanie Hats and Padded Tote Bags, to the Moncler Down Puffer Jackets and Padded Snow Boots, they’ve got you covered from head to toe.  

Their jackets fit true to size. Size down if you prefer a slimmer, more streamlined look over lighter layers, but if the conditions are baltic, sizing up over as many jumpers as possible may be required! Dry cleaning is recommended on most jackets, but some can be cleaned at home, so always check the care label before washing. 

Shop The Collection

In 2010, they took the next step in their adventure, introducing Moncler Grenoble in homage to the brand’s legacy, so named after the mountains near to where it was conceived. What is the difference between Moncler and its Genius and Grenoble curations, we hear you ask? Before we go on, let’s clarify… Whilst the main line is created for everyday wear, Grenoble is exclusively made for the slopes, and Genius is a celebration of high-powered collaborations.

As stylish as they are practical, Moncler Grenoble pieces have hidden details such as internal powder skirts, integrated rescue systems and quilted linings, making them a lifeline up the mountains. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed professional skier/snowboarder, or enjoy propping up the bar at the après-ski, you’ll find everything you need to serve effortless style on the slopes. 

From colour-pop Windbreaker Jackets, and Cosy Cardigans, to wear under sleek Ski Coats and pair with Ski Trousers. Top your ensemble off with the distinctive Beanies to keep your head warm and show your dedication to the brand all at once. When it’s time to hit the bars, change into a pair of Track Pants and Tailgrip Sneakers to avoid slipping over the ice. 

Shop The Collection

Then last but by no means least, came Moncler Genius. This new creative chapter started in 2018, signalling the start of the next part in the brand’s story under the direction of the progressive new chairman Remo Ruffini. In the brand’s own words, Moncler Genius is: “a hub of exceptional minds operating in unison while simultaneously cultivating their singularity.”

Cementing their place in the high-fashion space further, they launched this project to be fluent in the language of sartorial tastemakers. For each contemporary drop, established and emerging designers are invited to translate the brand’s original heritage through their own unique lens, delivering exclusive collaborative capsule collections which transcend the traditional fashion calendar. 

World-renowned designers such as Craig Green, JW Anderson, Rick Owens, Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli and more have reinvented the staple Moncler Genius Coat through their lens. Aside from these, our favourites include the Moncler Genius x Fragment Down Puffer Jacket, the Moncler Genius x Salehe Bembury Fleece Sweatshirt, Moncler Genius x Palm Angels Rodmar Puffer Jacket and Moncler Genius x 1017 Alyx Padded Mules.

We can’t wait to see what’s next for Moncler, the brand where the sky is truly the limit…

Shop The Collection

RELATED READING
Most Wanted: Gucci Sneakers
The Womenswear Checklist: Style On The Slopes
The Menswear Checklist: Style On The Slopes

SEE ALL STORIES
Women’s
Men’s