ED HARDY MAKES NEWS ON THE RETAIL FRONT

We hear that the infamously hip fashion mastermind Christian Audigier has opened an Ed Hardy retail store in the Meat Packing District in New York City. Audigier has the license for the ultra hip T-shirt, cap and accessory company that capitalizes on the creative content of tattoos. Ed Hardy is one of the foremost tattoo artists, and it was Audiegier’s marketing genius that elevated Hardy’s colorful handiwork to cult fashion status.

The new Ed Hardy Store in New York City will carry bags, hats, T-shirts, collectables as and limited edition samples made exclusively for the store. According to media reports the NYC location has the same relaxed atmosphere, unique decor and vibrant colors that hail the hipness of Hardy. At last years’ Magic Show Audigier was the coolest cat in town with a booth so crowded that buyers were writing orders themselves (did I tell you sushi flowed all day long).

Not only is Audigier making fashion waves all over the world, but he signed an Ed Hardy motorcycle manufacturing deal, produced and distributed Ed Hardy energy drinks, opened a retail store on Melrose in LA and got international distribution of the Ed Hardy brand. Audigier is unveiling four new Ed Hardy categories including housewares.

Rumor has it that Christian Audigier was a teenage wunderkind called the “king of jeans” for his creative design work, elaborate parties and denim museum in Paris - that paid homage to stars like Elvis Presley. He worked with Levi’s, Diesel, Bisou Bisou, American Eagle Outfitters, Lee and Von Dutch.

In 2005 Audigier left Von Dutch to promote the launch of his new clothing line—Ed Hardy. “Inspired by the youth of America Audigier was so motivated by the artwork of Ed Hardy that he purchased the rights to his artwork to bring tattoo culture to the fashion world. The T-shirts, denim and accessories reflect Audigier's own fast-paced lifestyle and passion for color.”

Check out this retail store, it will be worth the subway fare.