Mossimo Giannulli was born and raised in southern California, a region of the country heavily influenced by a casual, beach lifestyle.  In 1987, while still in his early twenties, Mossimo had an idea to capitalize on that lifestyle.  With a loan from his father, he started a small beach lifestyle company out of a garage on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, California.  By marketing solely to surf shops, Mossimo’s company grossed $1 million in its first year.

In 1991, Mossimo expanded the line to include sweatshirts, knits and sweaters.  By 1995, the collection included women’s apparel and men’s tailored suits.  After only eight years in business, Mossimo, Inc. had grown into a multi-million dollar lifestyle sportswear and accessories company.  At the time, Mossimo was reported to be the youngest CEO ever of a New York Stock Exchange company.

In 1996, following expansion of the line, Mossimo realized a need to inject new energy into the brand.  As Mossimo explained, “From 1987 to 1996, we were on an absolute roll.  Tons of profit, tons of growth.but we needed a stronger infrastructure to keep up.”  On March 28, 2000, Mossimo, Inc. announced a major, multi-product licensing agreement with Target stores.

The Target agreement allowed Mossimo, Inc. to design a range of product categories broader than ever before, while taking advantage of the merchandising expertise and powerful distribution capabilities of Target.  As one of its early design partners, Mossimo brought Target guests fun fashion at a fair price and the collection continues to deliver exciting, affordable options.  Mossimo, Inc. and the Mossimo for Target designs reflect the person behind the brand – innovative, young, modern, fun and a bit rebellious. 

November 2005, was the beginning of Mossimo’s fifth year with Target.  His upcoming spring collection will appear in stores in February 2007.

Mossimo Giannulli married Lori Loughlin in 1998.  He is a father to three children: a son Gianni, and two daughters, Isabella Rose and Olivia Jade.  Mossimo lives in southern California with his family, calling Los Angeles home.

About Target

Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,494 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today’s best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives back more than $2 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.