It's not uncommon for celebrities to often seek additional streams of income and venture into the worlds of fashion and beauty. For twin sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, their foray into the high-end luxury clothing arena came with the creation of their brand, The Row. While celebrity-born clothing lines often raise eyebrows among critics, the Olsen twins have managed to assert their legitimacy through their timeless wardrobe staples and unparalleled quality. The brand has even cemented itself as the poster brand for quiet luxury as it boasts minimalist pieces that speak volumes.
The Origin of the Brand's Name The Row
Right from the outset, the Olsen twins ensured that their past as child stars would remain detached from the brand. In fact, it's the very reason why they avoided doing interviews during the first three years of their brand's inception and why they decided to name it after Savile Row—a street in London known for its traditional bespoke tailoring for men—instead of naming it after themselves like other stars usually do. They never used their fame as celebrities to drive awareness for the brand; instead, they let the clothes speak for themselves.
The Brand History of The Row
Before the Olsens became bona fide fashion designers, they were first fashion icons. Spending most of their lives under the public eye, thanks to their appearances in sitcoms and movies such as Full House, Billboard Dad, New York Minute, and Passport to Paris, the two were quickly considered "it girls" even at a young age, dominating pop culture and becoming style inspirations for many girls growing up in the '90s and early 2000s. The two would wow everyone with their matching or coordinated looks, both on screen and on the red carpet. However, it wasn't until 1999 when they collaborated with Walmart to create a clothing line for young girls that they would take their first step into the fashion industry as designers rather than models. And yes, the clothes were indeed designed by the twins themselves—they were only 13 at the time.
Seven years later, in 2006, “The Row” would be founded. What first started as a personal project to create the perfect white tee then turned into a brand dedicated to bringing you the “perfect” wardrobe staples. From creating the perfect T-shirt to the development of a seven-piece collection with a focus on finding a common fit and attitude for women of all body shapes and ages, the collection included the T-shirt, leggings, and a tank dress. The whole collection was bought entirely by Barneys New York.
Over the years, The Row expanded its offerings to include ready-to-wear clothing, resort wear, sunglasses, handbags, and shoes. They have cultivated one of the best reputations in the fashion industry, known for their commitment to minimalist and luxurious basics. Clean lines, uncluttered silhouettes, and the lack of unnecessary embellishments are hallmarks of their aesthetic. The brand places a strong emphasis on the use of high-quality fabrics. From sumptuous cashmere and silk to fine wool and cotton, The Row sources materials that not only feel luxurious but also contribute to the longevity of the garments. So, if you're wondering why that button-down shirt costs over $1,000 or why a pair of trousers reaches up to $2,000, it's because you're buying pieces that aren't just timeless in style but are timeless in the sense that they will last you a lifetime.
In spring of 2011, The Row introduced their first menswear collection, and in October 2016, the label launched a new menswear collection in Los Angeles and New York. In August 2018, a complete menswear collection, including suits, denim, and knits, was announced and became available in-store in October 2018.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the brand faced financial difficulties in July 2020, reportedly the bankruptcy of Barneys New York, one of its major accounts also had a major impact. However, in September 2021, The Row expanded its offerings by introducing its first children's collection.
The brand has been recognized for its minimalist and luxurious basics, establishing itself as a high-profile label in New York. The Olsens have received acclaim for their collections, winning various awards from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), including Womenswear Designers of the Year in 2012 and 2015, as well as Accessory Designers of the Year in 2014 and 2018.
After The Row, they also founded the contemporary line Elizabeth and James in 2007 and launched Olsenboye, an affordable teen line, in collaboration with JC Penney in 2009. Additionally, they have engaged in partnerships with StyleMint and Bik Bok.
SHOP: Must-Have Pieces from The Row
Wesler Top in Cotton, $350 (approx. P19,734), THE ROW, therow.com
Moon Shirt in Cotton, $1290 (approx. P72,713), THE ROW, therow.com
Ophelia Top in Wool and Cashmere, $ (approx. P), THE ROW, therow.com
Rufos Pant in Silk, $1850 (approx. P104,278), THE ROW, therow.com
Melonia Dress in Scuba, $1590 (approx. P89,623), THE ROW, therow.com
Obine Jacket in Viscose and Wool, $2390 (approx. P134,716), THE ROW, therow.com
Eglitta Jeans in Cotton, $720 (approx. P40,584), THE ROW, therow.com
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