About
Nautica is an American apparel brand owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG). Its focus is on men's, women's, and children's apparel and accessories, as well as home goods, watches, and fragrances. Founded in 1983 by clothing designer David Chu and a partner, Nautica was initially acquired by State-O-Maine, a New York-based apparel company, in 1984. State-O-Maine later changed its name to Nautica in 1994. VF Corporation purchased Nautica in 2003, before ABG acquired it in 2018. Since its acquisition by ABG, the brand has been repositioned as an upper mid-range brand, targeting a market segment above brands such as Izod and Chaps, but below Tommy Hilfiger and Polo Ralph Lauren. The brand name is derived from the Latin word "nauticus," meaning naval, reflecting a nautical theme in its designs. In 2020, ABG also acquired the Brooks Brothers brand name, further solidifying its presence in the apparel market; Nautica's brand positioning is now marketed as a more affordable, modern athleisure brand compared to the upscale Brooks Brothers brand. In 2021, ABG's acquisition of Izod added another layer to its portfolio, with Nautica now positioned between Izod's lower price point and Brooks Brothers' higher price point.