J Brand was co-founded by Jeff Rudes in 2004.[2][3] In 2005, J Brand officially launched at the Ron Herman Melrose Denim Bar in Los Angeles, California.[4]
At its inception, the company only offered women's denim.[5] Their 811 Skinny style was popular.[6] Their most famous skinny is the Houlihan Cargo Pant, named for the M*A*S*H character Hot Lips Houlihan and originally perceived as a novelty item.[7] Frank Doroff, vice chairman of Bloomingdales department stores said it was their "best selling pant", selling thousands.[7] J Brand sold more than 300,000 pairs.[8]
In late 2012, Fast Retailing announced they had bought 80% of J Brand for $290 million.[9]