JIL SANDER

Black Crochet Sweater

Founded in 1968, the company went public in 1989. In 1999 Prada Group bought a 75% share in the company. Six months later, Sander departed the company, and it suffered serious financial setbacks. She returned briefly in 2003. In 2006, private equity firm Change Capital Partners LLP (CCP) bought the company from Prada. At that point, the Telegraph reported that the company was in better shape financially. Prada CEO Patrizio Bertelli said: "As we focus on the development of the Prada and Miu Miu brands, I am certain that Change Capital Partners will be able to provide the necessary investment to further grow the Jil Sander business." Raf Simons remained creative director at Jil Sander. In September 2008, the Jil Sander brand was purchased by Onward Holdings Co. Ltd (TYO: 8016), a Japanese multi-brand fashion conglomerate, and its European subsidiary GIBO' CO. S.p.A. for about US $244 million.