Theory is a New York City–based upscale men's and women's contemporary fashion label which sells premium clothes and accessories. The brand has 434 retail locations, and global sales approaching $1 billion as of 2021.[1] The company's headquarters and flagship boutique are located in Manhattan's Meatpacking District.[2]
Origins and development
In 1997, Andrew Rosen, former CEO of Anne Klein and a Calvin Klein executive, launched Theory with co-founder Elie Tahari in New York City as a women's collection, with a focus on comfortable stretch pants. The collection performed well and a men's line was added in 1999.[3]
In 2000, a license agreement was formed with Link International of Japan, established in 1998, to manufacture, and distribute the brand as well as operate stores under the Theory name in Asia, predominantly Japan.