Hollister is a west coast clothing brand marketed under the aegis of Abercrombie & Fitch. The first Hollister company store opened in 2002, although according to company literature, Hollister was founded back in 1922. The company takes its name from Hollister Ranch, which was a very popular surfing place located near Santa Barbara. The first Hollister company store at the Topanga Canyon Mall won rave reviews from its target audience, kids between the ages of 13 and 22. Indeed, the number 22 has major significance for Hollister, and the company emblazons this number on a lot of goods, accessories, and apparel. Hollister stores are laid out according to a West Coast vibe. When you walk into the entrance, you will see a clay tile roof, a wooden board wall, and lots of faux palm trees and windows. Hollister stores feature a signature fragrance, which is reminiscent of the beach. Even the restrooms are evocative of surfing culture. The men's restroom is labeled "Dudes"; the women's is labeled "Betties." In addition to Hollister Jake Cologne, the brand sells T-shirts, baseball caps, pants, and jackets that meld the preppy east coast aesthetic with the relaxed feel of the California coast. Some people have compared Hollister with the early incarnations of the Banana Republic chain, since Hollister emphasizes its surfing roots and casual atmosphere with worn leather chairs and brown mesh netting along the ceiling of Hollister outlets. The company recently opened several store locations in Canada. |
