rian, Seattle-Based Men’s Bag Designer, Goes National
Start Up Fashion Company Expands into New York, Los Angeles and Chicago

rian co-owners Rian and Julie Berry

SEATTLE, Wash.—(May 20, 2008)— Local company rian, whose first design was sketched on a paper napkin at a Queen Anne diner, is poised and ready to claim a slice of the $300 billion fashion industry pie. With expansions into the New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland and Montreal markets, this popular men’s bag and accessory collection is breaking new ground in the growing men’s fashion sector.

Founded by husband and wife team Rian and Julie Berry in 2005, rian has gained international exposure in a few short years. The first men’s bag collection was unveiled in 2007 and includes messenger, travel bags and travel kits made from the finest leathers, metals and textiles. Since inception, revenues have increased 100% annually and are expected to do so again in 2008. Production, which started at 100 units, is currently reaching 1,800 units with no end in sight due to a growing demand for diversity in men’s fashion.

“rian is a lifestyle brand,” says Designer and co-owner Rian Berry. “We will be launching a new men’s collection in 2009 that will have small functional accessories for men like wallets, shaving kits, business card cases and passport covers.”

In 2004, when they were in the early stages of dating, the young couple hit upon a plan to start a business together over breakfast at a local diner. The idea was to incorporate Julie’s marketing talents with Rian’s background in art and design. They chose men’s bags and accessories because it offered a unique opportunity to incorporate key elements of lifestyle, fashion and design in the still budding men’s fashion market. In 2005, the duo not only launched the rian brand, they also got married.

“Watching our idea come to fruition has been amazing,” says Rian. “I think our attention to detail and use of progressive materials is what sets our designs apart. This is what has allowed us to expand into these important fashion markets and stand out among some of the most established designers in the world."

rian men’s collection is currently featured in the following upscale boutiques:

New York City

Lounge

Detour

Atrium

 

Los Angeles

Fred Segal

Kitson Men

Chicago

Akira

Portland

Michael Allen’s

Montreal

Eccetera

Seattle

Marqsmen

Bossi & Ich Ky