ed-hardy

Obviously, graphic tees and denim jeans are not new concepts to street fashion. In fact, graphic tees have been part of American culture since the acceptance of casual attire in the 1960s. Moreover, one might even say that the graphic fashion market is overly saturated with a multitude of brands all targeting the same audience. Where most producers of such apparel depend on their brand name to sell and be the core element of their designs, Ed Hardy merchandise allows the artwork to speak on behalf of the brand with little emphasis on the label itself. Season after season, Ed Hardy delivers the same aesthetic over a variety of garments and accessories. The consistent focus on original artwork, as opposed to brand egocentric graphics, is where Ed Hardy succeeds in setting itself apart from its competitors. The success of Ed Hardy lies within its originality, quality, and authenticity – all of which are what keep customers intrigued and coming back.

Flash-driven art is what fuels the designs of this Los Angeles based fashion label. It is widely assumed that apparel manufacturer and celebrity designer, Christian Audigier, is the creative genius behind the Ed Hardy aesthetic. As talented as Mr. Audigier is, the Ed Hardy brand is actually based on the artwork of an artist by the name Don Ed Hardy. An accomplished tattoo artist, Don Ed Hardy has built a legendary reputation on interpreting traditional Japanese tattoos and subculture retro motifs into his own unique art form. Because of Hardy’s collaboration with Audigier, graphics in fashion have leveled-up to art in fashion.

A lifestyle brand catering to high-end urban style, Ed Hardy has become one of the most easily identifiable labels among influencers and independents alike. My favorite Ed Hardy item is a pair of shoes that I picked up about two years ago at Macy’s Herald Square. Inspired by American favorite Chuck Taylors, the sneakers have old school rubber soles and toes complete with a purple canvas body. Laces optional, these shoes were engineered to comfortably stay put with hidden elastic bands. As is, the shoes are classic, retro-distressed, and user friendly. Now, mixing in trademark Ed Hardy style, Don Ed Hardy mermaids are thoughtfully incorporated into the surface design of the shoes. Sirens pose playfully on each side while a fifth swims up the middle on the shoe’s tongue. Taking creative license, I loop some heavy thread through the eyelets over the tongue to make it seem as though our middle mermaid is trapped in a fishing net. Although Ed Hardy apparel is great, I find that the accessories are just perfect for breathing life into any outfit for people who like to attach their own creative twists.