David Yurman
This family-owned jeweler, which mostly makes high-end sterling pieces, is said to be very profitable—one industry insider puts annual earnings around $200 million. Founded in 1979 and New York based, its distribution in the United States is mainly through department stores and posh jewelers. There’s potential for both namesake stores and overseas expansion. Investors have been eyeing this company for some time.
Elie Tahari
The family-owned, New York–based company has estimated sales of $500 million annually and is highly profitable, say industry sources. Elie Tahari started his business in 1974, and his designs are now department store staples. There are a handful of freestanding Elie Tahari stores, and this company has dipped its toes into the international market, becoming the top performing brand at Harvey Nichols in Dubai.
Mblem
Consumers love a celebrity brand, and Mblem, by pop-star-turned-actress Mandy Moore, is no exception. Launched in 2006 with a group of vintage-inspired T-shirts, Mblem has grown into a complete contemporary collection carried in more than 500 stores, including Nordstrom. Look for lifestyle extensions to come next for this Los Angeles–based company.
3.1 Phillip Lim
This young designer is not just a media darling; he makes smart business moves. In the last year, he won the CFDA’s award for emerging talent; opened a store in New York’s Soho; partnered with Coach on a limited-edition trench; and designed a white shirt for the Gap. He’s also opening a shop in Tokyo. Not bad considering he’s only been in business since 2004.
Kelly Wearstler
She’s known for her work as a home and hotel designer and her stint as a judge on Bravo’s Top Design, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg for this former Playboy centerfold. She currently has fabric, rug, and wallpaper lines, and bedding and tabletop collections are in the works. With talk of an apparel line, she’s being touted as the next society designer à la Tory Burch—but the Los Angeles version.
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