In 1985, with the assistance of a controversial marketing move in Times Square naming Tommy Hilfiger as one of the top four fashion designers America, he introduced his first signature menswear collection.

Born the second of nine children in Elmira, New York, Hilfiger’s career in fashion began as a high school student in 1969 when he opened a small chain of stores called People’s Place with just $150. His goal was to bring fashion from New York and London to upstate New York. Self taught, he soon began designing for the boutiques he had always admired.

In 1979 he moved to New York City to pursue a career as a full-time fashion designer. In New York, Hilfiger caught the eye of Mohan Murjani, a businessman who was looking to launch a line of men’s clothing and believed that Hilfiger’s entrepreneurial background gave him the unique ability to approach men’s fashion in a new way.

With Murjani’s support, Hilfiger introduced his first signature collection by modernizing button-down shirts, chinos, and other time-honored classics with updated fits and details.

Thanks to my sponsors for being a part of making this trip possible through your generous support.

Sponsors Credit: PSGIVE - Popularhispanics.com - Precision Camera - Cotton Carrier

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