Iris von Arnim, German 'Queen of Cashmere,' Marks 50 Years of Knitwear
Iris von Arnim, renowned as the 'Queen of Cashmere,' is commemorating the 50th anniversary of her brand, which she founded in 1976 with limited resources and local knitters in Hamburg. Having lost her parents at 16 and hailing from a refugee family that settled in Hanover in 1947, she launched the label as a single mother. Her son Valentin now co-manages the brand, which continues to prioritize cashmere and knitwear. While many luxury brands have expanded their knitwear collections, Iris remains committed to traditional craftsmanship and the timeless allure of handmade products. As they celebrate this significant milestone, the family underscores the importance of permanence and heirloom quality.
Key facts
- Iris von Arnim founded her cashmere brand in 1976 after a car accident led her to knitting.
- She opened her first store with very little money in Hamburg, working with home knitters.
- She had no formal education in fashion or business.
- Her family were refugees who arrived in Hanover in 1947; she was orphaned at 16.
- She launched the brand as a single mother.
- Her son Valentin now co-runs the family-owned label.
- Major luxury brands including Dior, Hermès, Gucci, and Prada now have knitwear lines, unlike when she started.
- The brand's DNA remains cashmere and knitwear, with an emphasis on heirloom garments passed down generations.
Entities
Artists
- Iris von Arnim
- Valentin von Arnim
Institutions
- CULTURED
- Dior
- Hermès
- Gucci
- Prada
Locations
- Hamburg
- Germany
- Hanover
- Berlin