Seattle-based casual wear retailer Tommy Bahama has weathered the recession by changing strategies from primarily a wholesale model to opening stores of their own and expanding their online presence. While many retailers have struggled to maintain same store sales levels during these past years, the new strategy for this retailer of tropical-themed vacation wear has grown to more than $600 million in sales.
Washington State has a robust apparel industry with over 1,540 apparel companies, more than 3,100 self-employed fashion designers and over 34,500 industry jobs reported in 2010. From business legend clothing retailer Nordstrom and outdoor wear pioneer Filson to fashion forward new designers and internationally acclaimed wedding gown designer Luly Yang, Washington State has been leading the fashion trend for decades. Read more about Washington’s apparel industry in Puget Sound Business Journal.
Today, Tommy Bahama keeps the dream of living the good life on a tropical island alive and well, no matter what the weather is outside. Read more about Tommy Bahama in the Puget Sound Business Journal.