An insider's guide to your favourite fashion brands
How did it start?
Thomas Jacob Hilfiger was born on March 24, 1951, in Elmira, New York. He grew up in an Irish Catholic family and inherited his sense of style from his father, who was a watchmaker. His early love of fashion led him, at the age of 18, to open his first shop, called the People's Place, selling jeans and bell-bottom trousers. By the mid-1970s, Hilfiger and his partners owned several stores in New York State, but he filed for bankruptcy in 1976.
In 1984, Hilfiger made a comeback, launching the Tommy Hilfiger menswear label through a licensing agreement. The line was inspired by the preppy classics he grew up with, combined with a modern twist.
In 1985, he demonstrated his marketing skills by launching a bold ad campaign in which he classed himself among the four great American designers (alongside Ralph Lauren, Perry Ellis and Calvin Klein). The ad, which featured on a billboard in Times Square, caused an immediate stir among New Yorkers and the industry.
In 1989, the licensing agreement was terminated and Hilfiger took control of his label with the help of two investors (including Hongkonger Silas Chou). He gained a following with his relaxed styles. American classics were given a twist with colourful trims, contrasting fabrics and his signature red, white and blue logo.