Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: Designing Women

Photography by Inez Van Lamsweered and VInoodh Matadin

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who turn 25 on June 13, have taken the fashion industry by storm. Mary-Kate and Ashley  have  built a billion-dollar empire on marketing their own image via a successful line for Wal-Mart and contemporary line Elizabeth & James. But their high-end brand, The Row, has received critical raves  since its inception in 2006—and commercial success: annual sales are now estimated between $10 million and $12 million [Robin Givhan,The Daily Beast and Newsweek]. 

It all began, with a deceptively simple-looking, but actually French-seamed, soft, drapey tee. The Row started there because it pinpointed the territory of their own personal style; something utilitarian yet also able to be elevated to whole new heights, as comfortable—quite literally—when worn with vintage couture as when thrown together with ratty old biker leathers and leggings.  [Vogue]

The Row Named after historic and prestigious tailor's street Savile Row in London, super twins Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen founded The Row in 2007 with the simple mission to create the perfect t-shirt. With the aim to update classic basics with tailored precision, Mary-Kate and Ashley doesn't believe in trends but rather focus on clean lines, ultra-refined silhouettes and the perfect fit, for which the sisters have gained much appreciation and praise. A 100% manufactured in the U.S.A., the Row's low key tempered sensuality and quiet confidence has left the world in no doubt that their success is far from based on their celebrity status, but their unquestionable talent. 

This year, the Olsens have received much-awaited validation by the fashion community for their CFDA nomination. The Olsen twins were nominated for the Swarovski Award for womenswear. The Swarovski awards are for the best up-and-comers in fashion [Robin Givhan,The Daily Beast and Newsweek] Unfortunately for the Olsens the Swarovski awards for best up-and-comers went to Prabal Gurung