Get Schooled: The Stories Behind Designer Names
By Connie Wang, Designed by Naomi Abel

J.Crew
When J.Crew was founded in 1983, owner Arthur Cinader wanted a name to directly compete with the super-preppy Ralph Lauren Polo. The J was tacked on because Cinader thought it "added cache." While it isn't the most romantic of stories, it's a bit of strategy that has proved effective!
Photo: Courtesy of J.Crew



















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