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    Von Dutch
    Fashion and Apparel

    Von Dutch

    United States flagUnited States

    "California Cool Since 1996"

    Founded 1996 Los Angeles, California
    Community

    About

    The commercial entity known today as Von Dutch traces its roots to Kenny Howard, a pinstriper and artist who died in 1992. His daughters sold the rights to his name and logo to Mike Cassell and Robert Vaughn in 1996, launching Von Dutch Originals. This purchase transformed a niche subcultural symbol into a global streetwear phenomenon under French designer Christian Audigier. The brand dominated pop culture in the early 2000s with signature trucker hats and graphic tees worn by icons like Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, and Madonna.

    Ownership has shifted multiple times since that peak era, moving through Groupe Royer S.A. before returning to U.S. control under White Space Group (WSG). As of 2024 and 2026, WSG operates the brand from Los Angeles while expanding its portfolio to include Nasty Gal. Recent strategic moves include a 2026 collaboration with Aéropostale to reintroduce Y2K aesthetics and a fragrance license deal with Horizon Beauty.

    Products & Sub-brands

    Trucker HatsGraphic T-shirtsDenim JacketsCargo PantsHandbagsAccessoriesFragrances

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns Von Dutch now?
    The brand is currently owned by White Space Group (WSG), which acquired it and recently purchased Nasty Gal from Debenhams in 2026.
    Is Von Dutch still in business?
    Yes, the brand is active and expanding, having returned to the U.S. market as a nine-figure powerhouse with new collections in 2026.
    What is the difference between Von Dutch and Aeropostale?
    While formerly separate entities, they partnered in 2026 to create a joint collection reviving Y2K aesthetics, though Von Dutch remains a distinct luxury streetwear brand.
    Why did Von Dutch become so famous in the 2000s?
    The brand exploded due to Christian Audigier's marketing and heavy adoption by A-list celebrities like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears, making it a symbol of Y2K cool.
    Is Von Dutch still selling trucker hats?
    Yes, the iconic trucker cap remains a flagship product, with regular restocks and new variations like camo and velvet styles available on their official site.

    Keywords

    streetweartrucker hatY2K fashionChristian AudigierKenny HowardWhite Space GroupNasty GalAeropostale collaboration

    Sources

    WikipediaOfficial WebsiteVogue DocuseriesLaw360 Acquisition NewsStupid Dope Collaboration

    Company Info

    Founded
    1996
    Founder
    Kenny Howard
    Headquarters
    Los Angeles, California
    Industry
    Fashion and Apparel
    Parent Company
    White Space Group
    Commercial Launch
    1996
    Key Figure (2000s)
    Christian Audigier
    Current Owner
    White Space Group
    Acquisition (2026)
    Nasty Gal for $16 million

    Official Website

    vondutch.com

    Links

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