Who is Tommy Hilfiger?
The
brand’s founder, Tommy Hilfiger is still involved in the business
today, and started his career in fashion in the late 60s. He co-founded a
record and clothing store in upstate New York City, using just $150 he
had managed to save while working at a petrol (or gas if you are in the
US) station.
The store, called People’s Place, grew over the next
few years into a chain of ten shops which were overseen by Hilfiger –
sadly the chain filed for bankruptcy in 1977.
Tommy Hilfiger history
Founded
in 1985, Tommy Hilfiger is an American brand, primarily known for their
clothing and footwear but now renowned for their chunky jewellery and
watches. They also sell a range of homewares and accessories.
After
his first venture, Hilfiger met with an Indian textile entrepreneur who
was hoping to break into the US by launching a range of upmarket men’s
clothes. With investment from the textile magnate, Hilfiger launched his
first line of clothing in 1985 and the Tommy Hilfiger brand was born.
This
series of products took classic American men’s clothes and gave them a
modern twist, with chinos and shirts being key halo products in the
collection. The popularity of the collection was almost instantaneous
and with the backing of his investor, he managed to secure a billboard
in Times Square.
Tommy Hilfiger history: 90s to the present day
It
wasn’t until 1996 that the Tommy Hilfiger brand started selling women’s
clothing, with a store in Beverley Hills opening soon after.
Subsequently, their London shop opened in 1998, coinciding with the
launch of a brand-new bed and bath collection.
As was the trend
in the early 90s, the structured look to the brand’s menswear was
switched out in favour of a more relaxed fit – this also brought the
brand more fame with hip-hop artists, increasing its advertising reach.
Following
years of success, the brand decided to license its name and logo to
create a line of jewellery and watches, which the rest of our guide
looks through.