Christian Audigier
At age 19, Christian Audigier was called the “king of jeans?by Sportswear International magazine for his creative design work, elaborate parties, and his unprecedented denim museum in Paris, which paid homage to some of his favorite stars including Elvis Presley and Steve McQueen. He worked with Levi’s, Fiorucci, Diesel, Bisou Bisou, American Eagle Outfitters, Naf Naf, Kookai, Liberto, Lee, and most recently Von Dutch. It has been an American rock-and-roll journey for this brand building powerhouse and now at age 45, Audigier is known the world over as an undeniable fashion designer, lifestyle brand visionaire, and celebrity.
In January 2005, Audigier rose like a phoenix from the ashes when he decided to publicly announce that he had parted ways with Von Dutch on national TV in France, only to promote the launch of his newest clothing line—Ed Hardy. Inspired by the youth of America, vintage-inspired fashion, Hollywood stardom, and motorcycle and tattoo culture, it is no surprise that Audigier was motivated by the artwork of Ed Hardy, the “godfather of tattoo? then purchased the rights to his artwork in order to bring tattoo culture into the world of fashion.
Since December 2004, Audigier has already brought legendary tattoo genius Ed Hardy to new heights. The cleverly designed t-shirts, denim and accessories reflect Audigier’s own fast-paced lifestyle and passion for color. To date, Audigier has signed the Ed Hardy motorcycle manufacturing deal, produced and distributed the collectible Ed Hardy energy drink, launched a brand new retail store on Melrose, obtained full international distribution of the Ed Hardy lifestyle brand, and generated over $5M in sales to date. Needless to say, Audigier will launch more than four new Ed Hardy lifestyle product categories in the coming year, including housewares.
A rebel with a cause, Audigier is setting out to create yet another global sensation. By incorporating vintage-inspired contemporary styles with tattoo-cultural themes, Audigier will undoubtedly reach the masses once again. What is his trick? Keeping the world on its toes and taking his work to extremes. |
