The logo which has defined the brand started in the early 1980s after Shawn Stussy and his assistant, Christian Anicete began scrawling their surnames on his handcrafted surfboards with a broad tipped marker.[2] He began using the logo on T-shirts, shorts and caps that he sold out of his car around Laguna Beach, California.[3][4] The signature was derived from that of his uncle, Jan Stussy.[5]
In 1984, Stussy and his friend, Frank Sinatra Jr. (not related to the singer),[6] partnered to sell the apparel.[7] The company expanded to Europe by 1988 and later opened a boutique store in SoHo, New York. The brand continued to open successful locations throughout the 1990s.[2] It was reported that revenues reached $17 million in 1991[4] and $20 million in 1992.[8] By 1992, the brand was sold throughout the United States at specialty boutiques and department stores alongside other high-priced "California lifestyle" clothing. Outside of the country, the brand was found in specialty shops alongside clothing from high-end international designers.[9]
In 1996, Stussy resigned as president of the company[10] and Sinatra bought his share of the company holdings. The design department has since been headed up by Creative Director, Nick Bower.[2] According to the company's website, the brand is available in company branded stores and other retailers in Europe, Asia, the United States, Canada and Australia.