An insider's guide to your favourite fashion brands
How did it start?
The brand was established in 1947 by Rose Repetto at the request of her son, dancer and choreographer Roland Petit. Repetto opened a workshop on the Rue de la Paix in Paris, specialising in clothing and accessories for dancers, including tutus, tunics and shoes (the latter made the brand famous). Repetto quickly became the supplier of choice for professional dancers and artists, including performers from Les Folies Bergeres, who would order custom shoes from the workshop. In 1948, French actress Brigitte Bardot became a fan and asked Repetto to make street shoes, which helped put the brand on the fashion map.
In 1959, Repetto opened its first factory, followed by a boutique at 22 Rue de la Paix, where it remains to this day.
In 1968, an advertising campaign with the slogan, 'La danse, c'est ... Repetto' attracted a host of new customers from outside the dance community, including Serge Gainsbourg, whose white lace-up Repettos became part of his look. By the early 80s the company had taken over the entire building at 22 Rue de la Paix. In 1987, it was bought by American group Esmark.
After a year, Repetto was bought by CC Banque Populaire, and in the early 1990s diversified its offerings to include fitness gear and swimwear.
