Former Ed Hardy Exec Launches Own Lines
Henry Mandell, former president and chief operating officer of Christian Audigier’s Ed Hardy brand, has debuted Counts of Barcelona and Catalunya Nights, two tops lines for men and women, respectively. Launching for Fall/Holiday 2009, the his and hers collections include V-neck T-shirts, racer-back tank tops and hoodies, all produced in Los Angeles.
Mandell, who left Ed Hardy in late 2008, said the inspiration for the lines comes from his extensive travels through Barcelona, a city whose culture, history and architecture he finds fascinating. “Through [the lines] I’m trying to convey an attitude and something more substantial than [other lines] that are blinged-out or contrived,” Mandell said. “I want to convey a message that is about honor and valor and freedom.”
Working with a graphic designer, Mandell has created graphics that represent Barcelona and his ideals. He also enlisted a former Trina Turk patternmaker to create his silhouettes. Hangtags on the garments, which will be discharge-printed, will explain the meaning of each design. Wholesale prices for the lines will range from $21 to $35. —Erin Barajas
