BRAND

UGG, founded in 1978 by Australian surfer Brian Smith, has become synonymous with luxurious sheepskin footwear and expanded into a diverse range of products. Starting with the Classic Boot, UGG quickly gained popularity in Southern California's beach culture before capturing the attention of the fashion elite and the world. The brand's unwavering commitment to creativity, quality, and craftsmanship has propelled it beyond the iconic boot to include footwear, apparel, accessories, and homeware, maintaining its reputation for excellence.


HISTORY

The history of UGG dates back to the late 1800s, with recorded accounts of sheepskin boots worn by Australian shepherds who used leather straps to secure the sheepskin around their feet and ankles. Over time, these boots evolved and became commonplace in rural Australia, particularly among sheep shearers who found them resistant to the lanolin in sheep's wool. The term "Ugg" is believed to have originated from Australian and United Kingdom war pilots who referred to the makeshift sheepskin boots as "flying Ugg's," short for ugly. The international popularity of UGG began to soar thanks to competitive surfers, with advertisements for Australian-made UGGs appearing in Californian surfing magazines in the 1970s. Brian Smith, an Australian surfer, recognized the growing trend and ventured to Southern California with a suitcase filled with sheepskin boots. He co-founded UGG Imports and registered the trademark "UGG" in America, subsequently becoming the sole owner of the UGG name. UGG's popularity surged in California's surf and celebrity culture, ultimately dominating 80% of the global market for sheepskin boots. UGG's rise to prominence was further bolstered by celebrity endorsements and influential marketing campaigns. The brand received a major boost in 2003 when Oprah Winfrey included UGG boots in her segment "Oprah's Favorite Things," leading to a surge in global sales. UGG boots became a celebrity staple, worn by renowned figures such as Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, and Kate Upton. The brand's success continued with high-profile collaborations, including featuring New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in their first men's campaign and garnering attention from notable male A-list celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ronnie Wood. Beyond footwear, UGG expanded its product range to include sandals, winter coats, accessories, and even household items, transforming into a billion-dollar company. 


DESIGNER

Brian Smith, a visionary Australian surfer, played a pivotal role in establishing UGG as an internationally recognized brand. Smith, along with his business partner Doug Jensen, founded UGG in 1978, introducing sheepskin boots to Southern California and beyond. Their venture initially had a slow start, but in 1994, UGG gained widespread recognition when the U.S. winter Olympic team wore their boots. This significant milestone propelled UGG into the spotlight, solidifying its reputation as a go-to brand for comfortable and stylish footwear.