Perry Ellis, a renowned name in the fashion industry, established his own fashion house, Perry Ellis International, in 1978 under The Vera Companies. Opening his showroom on New York’s prestigious Seventh Avenue, Ellis quickly made a mark with his Perry Ellis Menswear Collection. His innovative designs and sophisticated style earned him eight Coty Awards between 1979 and 1984 and a Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Award in 1983. Ellis also served as President of the CFDA in 1984, solidifying his influence in the fashion world.

Ellis’s approach to fashion was described by his colleague Richard Haines as “classic with a twist.” Ellis aimed to create clothes that were not only stylish and witty but also relaxed and accessible. His impact on the fashion industry continued even after his untimely death in 1986. Robert L. McDonald, a close friend and former film producer, took control of the company and guided it through challenging times. Under McDonald’s leadership, the brand continued to thrive, with notable designers like Marc Jacobs contributing to its legacy.

The journey of Perry Ellis International from its inception to the present day reflects a history of resilience and adaptability. The brand underwent several acquisitions, with Supreme Inc. acquiring it in 1999 and later renaming it Perry Ellis International. This era marked significant growth, with the acquisition of various other textile companies, including Original Penguin and Ping Collection. Despite the changes, Perry Ellis has maintained its reputation for timeless style and has left an indelible mark on both the fashion industry and popular culture.

Perry Ellis SS14 Showcase

How to tell if Perry Ellis is vintage from the logo

Perry Ellis has been a staple in the fashion industry for decades, known for its timeless and sophisticated style. The brand’s logo has undergone several changes over the years, reflecting shifts in design trends and branding strategies. Identifying the era of a Perry Ellis logo can help determine if a piece is vintage. Below are the distinguishing characteristics of Perry Ellis logos from different eras.

1970s to 2010s Perry Ellis logo

• The logo features “Perry Ellis” in a serif font.
• The text is stylized with the ‘P’ and ‘E’ slightly larger than the other letters.
• Brown color is commonly used, reflecting a classic and timeless aesthetic.
• The design exudes a traditional and formal vibe, consistent with the brand’s sophisticated style during this period.

2010s to now Perry Ellis logo

• The logo features “Perry Ellis” in a modern, sans-serif font.
• The text is all capitalized and evenly spaced.
• Black color is predominantly used, showcasing a sleek and contemporary look.
• The design is minimalist, aligning with modern branding trends and appealing to a younger audience.

How to tell if Perry Ellis is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Perry Ellis tags reflects the brand’s journey through various fashion eras, showcasing its adaptation to changing trends while maintaining its distinct identity. From bold serif lettering in the early days to more modern and minimalist designs in recent years, Perry Ellis tags provide a rich history of the brand’s aesthetic evolution.

Having difficulty identifying vintage tags or labels? Submit a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll assist you!

1970s vintage Perry Ellis tags

• Reflects the early branding with “Perry Ellis America.
• Tags often feature bold serif lettering and American flag motifs.
• Square or rectangular tags with clear size indicators.

1980s vintage Perry Ellis tags

• Continued use of “Perry Ellis America” with a strong focus on bold typography.
• Introduction of more colorful and varied tag designs.
• Size indicators often included alongside the main logo.

1990s vintage Perry Ellis tags

• Tags reflect a more refined and streamlined look.
• Incorporation of minimalistic designs with simple “Perry Ellis” text.
• Tags sometimes feature additional descriptors like “Knitted by Hand.”

2000s vintage Perry Ellis tags

• Transition to more modern designs with a mix of bold and minimalistic elements.
• Introduction of loop tags for the first time.
• Continued use of “Perry Ellis” in clear, bold serif lettering.

2010s vintage Perry Ellis tags

• Modern and sleek designs with the classic Perry Ellis logo.
• Variety in tag colors and materials, reflecting contemporary fashion trends.
• Tags often feature more elaborate and detailed layouts.