Ottino, nearly two centuries of history blending craftsmanship, elegance, and tradition

The historic Florentine leather goods house that embodies the excellence of Made in Italy

In the heart of Florence, among the streets that tell the story of the city’s shopping and craftsmanship, Ottino is one of the longest-standing and most prestigious names in Florentine leather goods. Its history dates back to 1830, and for nearly two centuries, it has accompanied the evolution of the city and of “Made in Italy” around the world.

The brand’s origins trace back to the historic Gilardini workshop on Via de’ Cerretani, which specialized in furs, luggage, evening bags, and high-quality accessories. Thanks to the refinement of its products, the shop soon became a go-to destination for Florentines and the city’s large international community. With Florence as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, the business consolidated its prestige, eventually earning the title of Supplier to the Royal House of Savoy.

Ottino (ph. Nuri Rashid)

The turning point came in 1919 with Eugenio Ottino, a young man from Genoa who moved to Florence and began working in the historic workshop. Fascinated by the city’s creative atmosphere, he took over the business and named it after himself, transforming it into a landmark of Florentine artisan leather goods.

In the years that followed, the Ottino family continued to innovate while maintaining a strong connection to tradition. After the devastating flood of 1966, which destroyed merchandise and historical archives, Massimo Ottino managed to quickly get the business back on its feet, contributing to the rebirth of a Florence that was wounded but determined to look ahead.

Ottino (ph. Nuri Rashid)

A new chapter began in 1978, when Paolo Ottino launched the brand's international expansion, particularly into the Japanese market, strengthening its identity through the creation of the logo and patterns that remain the brand's hallmarks to this day.

Ottino (ph. Nuri Rashid)

Since 2000, Ottino has been headquartered on Via Porta Rossa, in the heart of Florence’s historic center. Here, it continues to uphold a tradition of quality, innovation, and attention to detail. In 2012, Virginia Ottino, a fourth-generation member of the family, joined the company. She has led the process of digitization and communication renewal, propelling the brand into the future without losing touch with its roots.

Ottino (ph. Nuri Rashid)

Today, Ottino is much more than just a leather goods store: it is a testament to Florentine artisanal excellence, a brand that, for nearly two hundred years, has told the story of Florence’s history, elegance, and savoir-faire through its creations.

Ottino
Via Porta Rossa, 69r
ph. +39 055 212139
ottino.com