Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Clothing

In the diverse world of fashion, few can claim a longer or more fascinating history than Abercrombie & Fitch. The company, founded in 1892 by David Abercrombie as an outfitter for hunting and fishing aficionados, has scrambled, retrenched, diversified and endured for over 100 years, and is now back at the forefront of the industry.

When the first small store opened in New York, it was just Abercrombie Co., but when one of its patrons, a wealthy lawyer named Ezra Fitch, bought an interest in the company it was renamed Abercrombie and Fitch. The partnership did not last long – Abercrombie wanted to stay with the outdoors line for professionals, but Fitch had a different vision and in 1907 he bought out his partner. By 1910 A&F became the first store in New York to offer both men and women’s clothing.

Interestingly, while the focus changed considerably, the name did not. Abercrombie & Fitch steadily expanded, and when in 1927 the company was outfitter for Charles Lindberg on his historic Atlantic flight, the name began to get a lot of attention from the press and from prominent figures in the news.

In the following years, A & F went through a lot of changes in ownership and in design as it grew and (mostly) prospered. By the 1990’s the company had dozens of stores in the U.S. and a well-established reputation for “casual luxury”, which had become their trademark. The store has also become known for unapologetically catering to a clientele who “can afford the best”. The focus is on the younger generation, with the ultra-cool youthful American look that is hugely popular with teens and young adults.

Early in the 21st century (2007) Abercrombie & Fitch opened its European Flagship store in London. As of this date plans are underway for further expansion to Dublin, Paris, Copenhagen, Tokyo and most likely to just about everywhere else.