Golden Goose

SUMMARY

Established in 2000 by designers Francesca and Alessandro Gallo, luxury sneakers, apparel and accessories brand Golden Goose redefines luxury fashion by combining artisanal techniques with a streetwear aesthetic. With a distinct emphasis on individuality, Golden Goose merges artistry with fashion, drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture of its native Venice. Its unique approach has made it an influential player in the contemporary fashion scene; the private equity-backed luxury sneaker, apparel and accessories brand Golden Goose reported €654.6 million for FY 2024, up 13 percent from 2023.

HISTORY

With the ambition of bringing Italy’s “hand-made tradition” to the world, luxury sneakers, apparel and accessories brand Golden Goose was founded in 2000 by Francesca and Alessandro Gallo, who sought to redefine luxury fashion by combining artisanal techniques with a streetwear aesthetic. The business began from a garage-turned-office in the industrial town of Marghera, near Venice. Once their first ‘house’ was founded, all that was missing was the right name. The choice fell on Aesop’s, the ancient Greek author, best-known fable, ‘The Goose that Laid the Golden Eggs’.

Per the website: ‘Our family is ignited by energy, positivity, and shared values. We let each individual’s creativity flow, we put our trust in each other and in our dreams. Everybody can be a part of this: being Golden means sharing these ideals and making them your own. This is who we are and what we represent: a patchwork of stories, memories, and experiences that bring us together.’

The brand debuted its first sneaker collection in 2007, which would ultimately become its hallmark product, characterised by its distinctive distressed aesthetic. In 2012, the brand gained international attention after launching its “Superstar” sneaker, which features a star logo and was marvelled for its unique combination of worn-out look and artisanal ethos. The sneaker’s unapologetically imperfect look appealed to consumers, propelling the brand into the spotlight. By 2015, Golden Goose had become a staple in luxury fashion, with sales soaring, particularly in the United States and Asia, establishing its presence in high-end department stores and boutiques.

Collaborations have played a significant role in Golden Goose’s history, further enhancing its appeal and expanding its artistic identity. In 2019, the brand partnered with Chinese artist and designer Xu Zhen to create an exclusive limited-edition sneaker which blended contemporary art with fashion. This collaboration showcased Golden Goose’s commitment to merging cultural influences into its designs, offering a fresh perspective whilst maintaining its core brand identity.

In 2016, Golden Goose was acquired by the private equity firm Carlyle Group, which provided the brand with the financial resources to expand its global footprint. Following the acquisition, Golden Goose has made significant investments in retail, opening flagship stores in New York City, Tokyo, and Paris. The brand received a lot of attention at Milan Fashion Week. In 2018, Golden Goose debuted its first full ready-to-wear collection, showcasing the brand’s versatility and commitment to artistic expression.

In 2021, Golden Goose launched its first sustainability-focused collection, featuring sneakers made from recycled materials. This initiative marked a pivotal moment in the brand’s history, illustrating its efforts to pivot towards a more sustainable production model while maintaining its signature aesthetic appeal.

Today, Golden Goose is a luxury brand specialised in the sourcing, design, and distribution of iconic products, primarily sneakers complemented by apparel, accessories and bags. The brand pioneered the ‘casualisation’ and ‘sneakerisation’ of the global personal luxury goods market, with the creation of their signature sneakers handcrafted in Italy. The luxury brand recently welcomed new Global Brand Ambassadors, tennis stars Jasmine Paolini and Zizou Bergs, and padel icons Marta Ortega and Juan Lebrón. They join Olympic skateboarding champions Keegan Palmer and Cory Juneau, and padel champion Arturo Coello, to embody the brand values of family, passion, and authenticity.

VISION

The vision of Francesca and Alessandro Gallo for Golden Goose stems from a desire to create fashion that embodies the spirit of individuality. They aim to inspire self-expression through their designs and encourage consumers to embrace imperfections. This vision reflects an understanding that true luxury lies not just in opulence, but in the character and stories behind each piece.

Additionally, the founders envision Golden Goose as a brand that intertwines art and culture. By collaborating with artists and innovating with unique designs, they aim to create a canvas for creativity that transcends traditional fashion norms. This approach is central to the brand’s identity, as it invites customers to appreciate the aesthetic and the artistic collaborations and cultural influences behind each collection.

Furthermore, the vision extends to sustainability, with the founders placing significant importance on ethical production and material sourcing. They aspire for Golden Goose to be a pioneer in merging luxurious designs with environmentally responsible practices, proving that high fashion can make meaningful contributions to the fight against climate change. This forward-thinking perspective ensures that Golden Goose remains relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, appealing to a conscientious consumer base.

MISSION STATEMENT

Golden Goose’s mission is to craft unique, high-quality products that combine a sense of luxury with an authentic and lived-in aesthetic. The brand aims to create footwear and apparel that provides a canvas for self-expression, allowing customers to showcase their individuality while embracing the beauty of imperfections. Through innovative design and meticulous craftsmanship, the brand seeks to redefine luxury fashion standards by marrying elegance with an effortless, relaxed style.

In addition, Golden Goose is committed to sustainability as a core component of its mission. The brand strives to integrate ethical practices into its business model, using responsibly sourced materials and environmentally friendly production methods. By investing in sustainable initiatives and supporting emerging designers, Golden Goose aspires to pave the way for a future in fashion that prioritises ecological integrity and social responsibility.

Furthermore, the brand seeks to cultivate a deep connection with its consumer base by fostering a sense of community and shared values. Golden Goose aims to create experiences that resonate on an emotional level, nurturing relationships with fans and customers alike. Through storytelling and artistic collaborations, the brand wishes to inspire a collective appreciation for fashion as a platform for creativity and engagement.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

• Francesca Gallo – Co-Founder and Creative Director
• Alessandro Gallo – Co-Founder and Co-Creative Director
• Patricia J. Smith – Chief Executive Officer
• Luca Romano – Chief Financial Officer
• Clara Mancini – Chief Marketing Officer

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Golden Goose is predominantly recognised for its high-quality sneakers, which serve as the brand’s flagship product. The Superstar sneaker, with its signature star logo and eclectic designs, has become a global sensation, celebrated for its unique distressed look that combines luxury with casual wear. The brand’s sneaker portfolio also includes various styles that embrace bold colours, textures, and artistic elements, appealing to a diverse range of fashion enthusiasts.

In addition to footwear, Golden Goose has expanded its offerings to include a full ready-to-wear collection, featuring both men’s and women’s apparel. This collection includes everything from luxurious knitwear and chic jackets to casual tees and statement dresses. Each piece reflects the brand’s ethos, displaying a blend of sophistication and relaxed elegance while maintaining the hallmark artistic flair that Golden Goose is known for.

Moreover, the brand frequently releases limited edition collections and collaborations that showcase its innovative spirit. These exclusive lines, often in partnership with renowned artists or designers, allow Golden Goose to continually refresh its aesthetic and engage with its community. Each collection is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every item stands out while remaining true to the brand’s core identity, celebrating creativity and individuality.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Golden Goose has received numerous accolades for its distinctive contributions to the fashion industry. In 2020, the brand was awarded the “Footwear Brand of the Year” at the prestigious Italian Fashion Awards, recognising its impact on contemporary luxury sneakers and its innovative approaches to design. This honour highlighted the brand’s ability to seamlessly integrate style and comfort, establishing Golden Goose as a leader in the footwear market.

Additionally, Golden Goose has been celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, winning the “Sustainable Brand Award” in 2021 during the Fashion and Sustainability Conference. This recognition emphasised the brand’s dedication to eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing, as well as its efforts to promote environmental initiatives within the fashion industry. The award underscored Golden Goose’s evolving role as a brand that not only excels in style but also in ethical responsibility.

Furthermore, the brand continues to gain recognition from fashion publications and influencers, frequently being featured in leading style magazines and fashion blogs. Its sneakers have become favoured among celebrities and trendy influencers, further solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon. This continued visibility and acclaim reflect Golden Goose’s successful blend of luxury, creativity, and relatable style, ensuring its place as a significant player in the global fashion landscape.