Steal This Look

April 8, 2008 / Add comment

Koyen writes a neutral, informative look at Forever 21, one of several clothiers offering "cheap-chic" replicas of designer clothing. The chain has thrived in the face of piracy lawsuits from designers, earning over $1 billion in 2006 for its "devoutly religious" husband-and-wife owners. The clothier's "journeyman designers" troll trade shows and runways worldwide, duplicating with breathtaking speed, and allowing for astonishingly quick turnover at its stores. The owners, Don and Jin Sook Chang, are apparently unapologetic, clinging to their evangelical faith as they storm the fashion industry.