Renowned for its dedication to the Neapolitan sartorial tradition, Amina Rubinacci, the womenswear brand beloved by tourists on Capri and the Amalfi Coast, is making a significant leap into the U.S. market with the opening of a new flagship store on New York’s Madison Avenue.

“We’ve had a presence in the U.S. for some time; my mother is credited with pioneering the knit blazers that have become a signature piece, particularly popular among American clients visiting Capri,” stated Alessandro Spada, CEO and son of founder Amina Rubinacci.

With the recent departure of longtime stockist Delle Celle from its historic location at 17 East 67th Street, Amina Rubinacci seized the opportunity to occupy this prime spot. The new Manhattan flagship features a minimalist design with parquet flooring and cream walls, showcasing the brand’s clothing and accessories through prominent street-facing windows.

“We’re investing in retail and flagship stores to consistently and coherently express our brand’s identity,” Spada emphasized.

Founded in 1968 by Amina Rubinacci, whose expertise in textiles laid the foundation for the brand, the company entered the U.S. market seven years ago. It has since established a solid wholesale footprint with around 50 retailers and is now expanding its direct presence. Its portfolio includes stores in Palm Beach, Charlotte, Greenwich, Washington, D.C., and Portland, among others.

“We have strategically avoided major department stores, focusing instead on specialty boutiques,” Spada added.

Globally, Amina Rubinacci operates 350 wholesale stockists, four franchised stores, and 16 directly operated boutiques in key cities including Milan, Rome, Capri, Geneva, London, and Moscow.

“Our family-owned status is both a strength and a limitation. It allows us to grow incrementally while staying true to our origins,” Spada noted.

Looking ahead, the brand plans further expansion with new openings slated for Vienna and Paris in 2025, and is also focusing on strengthening its position in Japan, where it could potentially introduce monobrand stores through its partnership with local distributor Sanki.

In 2023, the brand’s revenue reached €15 million, with wholesale accounting for 60% of this total. Spada anticipates a low-double-digit growth in 2024, driven by strong performance in key markets, including the U.K.

New York City’s retail landscape has not only rebounded from the pandemic but has also thrived, with significant leasing activity and rent reductions. “We’ve observed a robust recovery,” commented Gene Spiegelman of Ripco. “Rents have decreased by 50%.”

Vacant restaurants and luxury fashion spaces have seen rapid turnover, with high-profile brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Prada securing prime locations on Madison and Fifth Avenues, signaling a dynamic shift in the city’s retail market.

Photo via Amina Rubinacci