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Moncler was founded in 1952 by René Ramillon and André Vincent in Monestier-de-Clermont, a mountain village near Grenoble, France. Originally created as a supplier of utilitarian outdoor gear, the brand manufactured quilted sleeping bags, camping equipment, and padded garments for workers in harsh mountain conditions. The company gained recognition in mountaineering, notably equipping the Italian expedition that conquered K2 in 1954 and becoming the official supplier for the French Alpine skiing team at the 1968 Winter Olympics. The brand's transformation into luxury fashion began in 2003 when Italian entrepreneur Remo Ruffini acquired Moncler. Under his leadership, the company evolved from purely functional mountain wear to versatile luxury outerwear that transitions from alpine environments to urban settings. Ruffini maintained technical excellence while introducing high-fashion elements and collaborations with renowned designers through initiatives like the Moncler Genius project. Today, Moncler embodies the philosophy of being 'born in the mountains, living in the city.'