Anna Sui
United States
Anna Sui is a New York fashion brand started by the designer Anna Sui in 1979. It sells ready to wear, accessories, beauty and fragrance, and has a particularly strong business in Japan through its partnership with Isetan.
| Founded | 1979 (business launched) |
|---|---|
| Founder | Anna Sui |
| Headquarters | New York, United States |
| Segment | Luxury and designer houses |
| First runway show | 1991 |
| Japan partner | Isetan (since 1997) |
| Website | annasui.com |
What is Anna Sui?
Anna Sui is an American designer brand founded by Anna Sui, born in Detroit in 1955. The signature collection is designed and produced at its New York headquarters in the Garment Center. The official online shop sells runway collections, dresses, knitwear, accessories, fragrances and beauty products.
History
Sui started her business in 1979 with 300 US dollars of savings, and an advertisement for her work in the New York Times helped launch her career. In 1991 Madonna wore her clothing at Paris Fashion Week and she held her first runway show. She opened her first store in SoHo in 1992 and won the CFDA Perry Ellis New Talent Award. She received the CFDA Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009 and the Women's Entrepreneurship Day Pioneer Award at the United Nations in 2018.
Business model and distribution
- Japan: Isetan partnered with the brand in 1997 under a distribution and sales licence, opening the first freestanding boutiques in Tokyo and Osaka. Dolly Girl by Anna Sui has over 50 standalone stores in Japan.
- Cosmetics: Anna Sui Cosmetics launched in 1999 with Albion Cosmetics, followed by skincare in 2000.
- Fragrance: first launched with Wella AG in 1999, with the current licence held by Inter Parfums.
- Own channels: an online shop and, historically, a SoHo flagship that left its Broome Street location in late 2020.
The sources reviewed do not state ownership details or financial figures.
Why it matters
Anna Sui is one of the longest running independent American designer brands, and a clear example of how licensing and regional partnerships, particularly in Japan, can sustain a business beyond the home market. Its beauty and fragrance activities are a major part of its international visibility.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Anna Sui?
The sources reviewed do not state who owns the Anna Sui company. It is led by its founder Anna Sui, and its Japanese business operates in partnership with Isetan Mitsukoshi.
Where is Anna Sui from?
Anna Sui is an American brand based in New York. The designer was born in Detroit in 1955 and launched her business in 1979.