Top 16 high street fashion investors in the US
Top 16 high street fashion investors in the US
The high street fashion industry in the US thrums with activity, characterized by its blend of accessible style and affordability. It features a range of companies, from fast-fashion behemoths to boutique labels, each offering trendy apparel at competitive prices. As consumer preferences evolve, sustainability and inclusivity increasingly shape market trends. E-commerce is on the rise, with many brands enhancing their online presence to cater to digitally savvy shoppers. Retailers are not only competing on price but also on quality and ethical production practices. This dynamic mix is paving the way for transformation amid an increasingly conscious consumer base.
The investors listed represent a range of types including venture capital and private equity firms, primarily based in major cities like New York and San Francisco. Formed between 1976 and 2023, they range in size from small partnerships to large entities with over 10,000 employees. Collectively, these firms engaged in 2024, participating in 802 deals, reflecting their active pursuit of high street fashion opportunities. This robust engagement illustrates a strong market interest in fashion, highlighting potential avenues for growth and innovation in an evolving environment.
Top 16 High Street Fashion Investors in the US
1. 500 Global
- Website: 500.co
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 98
- LinkedIn: 500-startups
500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Notably, 500 Global has made significant investments in the fashion sector, including multiple funding rounds for Pomelo Fashion, a Thailand-based e-commerce firm that focuses on online fashion retail. They participated in Pomelo's seed funding in 2014, followed by additional investments in subsequent rounds, including a Series A round in 2016. Additionally, 500 Global invested in italist, a platform for luxury fashion, further showcasing their involvement in the fashion industry. Their diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting innovative startups across various sectors, including high street fashion.
2. Y Combinator
- Website: ycombinator.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 802
- LinkedIn: y-combinator
Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources like the Startup School. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the high street fashion context are Shoptiques, which raised $2 million in a seed round in 2012, and Curtsy, a clothing resale app that raised $11 million in Series A funding in 2021, along with earlier seed investments in 2016 and 2019. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's engagement with innovative fashion-related businesses, particularly in the e-commerce and resale markets.
3. FJ Labs
- Website: fjlabs.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 169
- LinkedIn: fj-labs
FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. They provide capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With over 1,000 companies in their portfolio, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has made notable investments in the high street fashion sector. Key transactions include a $110 million investment in Farfetch, a leading online luxury fashion retail platform, and a $6 million investment in Eloquii, a plus-size women's fashion brand. Additionally, they participated in the funding of Curtsy, a clothing resale app aimed at Gen Z women, which raised $11 million in Series A funding. These investments highlight FJ Labs' commitment to supporting innovative fashion startups that resonate with contemporary consumer trends.
4. Accel
- Website: accel.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1983
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 101
- LinkedIn: accel-vc
Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies. While the firm primarily focuses on the technology sector, it has also made notable investments in the high street fashion industry. For instance, Accel invested in ModCloth, a popular online retailer known for its vintage-inspired clothing, raising a total of $43 million across three funding rounds from 2010 to 2015. Additionally, Accel was involved in KupiVIP, a leading online shopping club in Russia that hosts flash sales of fashion and accessories from over 1200 high-street and luxury brands, raising $38 million in a Series D round in 2012. These transactions highlight Accel's engagement with the high street fashion market, despite its broader focus on technology.
5. L Catterton
- Website: lcatterton.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1989
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 23
- LinkedIn: l-catterton
L Catterton is a private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in investment management with a focus on consumer brands across various sectors. The firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the high street fashion sector, acquiring a 51% stake in the Danish fashion brand Ganni, which aims to leverage L Catterton's expertise for international expansion. Additionally, they acquired a majority stake in the French fashion label APC, supporting its international growth strategy. Other relevant transactions include investments in Everlane and Future Lifestyle Fashions, further demonstrating their commitment to the fashion industry. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton drives growth and innovation within its portfolio companies, making it a key player in the high street fashion landscape.
6. Tiger Global
- Website: tigerglobal.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2001
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 25
- LinkedIn: tiger-global-management
Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology across various sectors. In the high street fashion context, Tiger Global has made significant investments in companies such as Allbirds, which raised $50 million in Series C funding in 2018 and $17.5 million in Series B funding in 2017, showcasing their commitment to sustainable and stylish footwear. Additionally, they invested in LimeRoad, which raised $15 million in Series B funding in 2014, and OQVestir, indicating their interest in online fashion retail. Their involvement in Vestiaire Collective further highlights their strategy to target younger, environmentally conscious consumers in the fashion space.
7. Sosv
- Website: sosv.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1995
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 170
- LinkedIn: sosv
SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, based in the United States, that specializes in funding and supporting startups across various sectors, including health, climate technology, and fashion. With a robust portfolio of 170 investments in 2024, SOSV has demonstrated its capability to identify and nurture innovative companies. Notably, SOSV has invested in Adore Me, a fashion brand that raised $2.5 million in Series A funding in April 2012 and additional undisclosed amounts in a later venture round in November 2012. Furthermore, SOSV has also invested in Styched, a fashion startup that raised undisclosed amounts in seed rounds in 2022 and 2023. These transactions highlight SOSV's engagement in the high street fashion space, showcasing its versatility as an investor.
8. SV Angel
- Website: svangel.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 44
- LinkedIn: sv-angel
SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth-stage investments, primarily in the technology sector, but has also ventured into the fashion industry. Notable transactions include investments in Bonobos, a men's clothing brand known for its innovative retail strategies, and Everlane, a direct-to-consumer fashion retailer that emphasizes transparency in pricing and production. Additionally, SV Angel participated in funding rounds for Shoptiques, an e-commerce platform that connects consumers with boutique fashion retailers, and ShopShops, which focuses on live-stream shopping experiences. Through these investments, SV Angel has demonstrated its capacity to support innovative fashion startups while maintaining a broader focus on technology-driven companies.
9. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)
- Website: nea.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1977
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 57
- LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates
New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. However, they have also made significant investments in the fashion industry, notably in companies like Moda Operandi, an online fashion retailer. NEA participated in multiple funding rounds for Moda Operandi, including a $100 million funding round in January 2020 and a venture round in May 2021. Additionally, they were involved in the Series E-K funding round for Gilt Groupe, a flash sales site for fashion. These transactions highlight NEA's engagement in the high street fashion sector, showcasing their ability to diversify their investment portfolio beyond their primary focus areas.
10. Advent
- Website: adventinternational.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1984
- Headcount: 501-1000
- Number of deals in 2024: 17
- LinkedIn: advent-international
Advent International Corporation is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1984. The firm specializes in buyouts and investments across various sectors, providing capital and strategic guidance to help companies achieve growth and navigate market challenges. Advent operates globally, focusing on long-term value creation for its portfolio companies. Notably, Advent has made several significant acquisitions in the high street fashion sector, including Charlotte Russe, which was acquired for $380 million in 2009, New Look in 1996, Fat Face in 2005, Maurices in 1994, and Takko Fashion, a German fashion discount chain, acquired for €770 million in 2007. These transactions highlight Advent's commitment to investing in and supporting the growth of high street fashion brands.
11. Lerer Hippeau
- Website: lererhippeau.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 23
- LinkedIn: lerer-hippeau-ventures
Lerer Hippeau is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2010, that specializes in early-stage investments. The firm has a diverse portfolio, but it has made significant contributions to the high street fashion industry through its investments in companies like Everlane, which raised $1.1 million in a seed round in 2011, and Allbirds, which has received multiple rounds of funding totaling over $25 million. Allbirds raised $2.7 million in a seed round in 2016, followed by $7.25 million in Series A and $17.5 million in Series B funding. These investments highlight Lerer Hippeau's commitment to supporting innovative brands in the fashion space that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.
12. Goodwater Capital
- Website: goodwatercap.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Burlingame, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2014
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 41
- LinkedIn: goodwater-capital
Goodwater Capital is a venture capital firm based in Burlingame, California, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in consumer technology and supports seed-stage entrepreneurs by providing investment, resources, and a community to help them grow. While Goodwater Capital focuses on various sectors, including healthcare and financial services, it has also made significant investments in the high street fashion industry. Notably, Goodwater led multiple funding rounds for Frank & Oak, a New York-based menswear brand, raising a total of over $20 million across Series B and C rounds. Additionally, they have invested in Stylemyle and Postmoda, further showcasing their engagement in the fashion sector. This blend of technology and fashion investments highlights Goodwater's versatility and commitment to supporting innovative brands across different industries.
13. General Atlantic
- Website: generalatlantic.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1980
- Headcount: 501-1000
- Number of deals in 2024: 32
- LinkedIn: general-atlantic
General Atlantic is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in growth equity. Founded in 1980, the firm provides capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs and growth companies across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, General Atlantic has made significant investments in the high street fashion context, such as Sezane, which raised funds in 2018, and Gilt Groupe, a fashion e-commerce platform that raised substantial amounts in multiple funding rounds from 2009 to 2015. These transactions highlight General Atlantic's engagement with the fashion industry, showcasing their capability to enhance the growth trajectories of fashion-related companies through their global network and expertise.
14. Kkr
- Website: kkr.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1976
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 74
- LinkedIn: kkr
KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a leader in asset management, providing tailored solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. Among its notable transactions, KKR acquired SMCP SA on April 18, 2013, a company known for its high street fashion brands, which showcases KKR's commitment to investing in the fashion sector. Additionally, KKR has participated in significant funding rounds for Reliance Retail, raising substantial amounts in 2020 and 2023, further indicating its strategic interest in retail and fashion-related investments. This diverse portfolio highlights KKR's ability to navigate complex investment landscapes while achieving strong financial returns for its clients.
15. Goldman Sachs
- Website: goldmansachs.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1998
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 59
- LinkedIn: goldman-sachs
Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, headquartered in New York, New York. It provides a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the high street fashion context, Goldman Sachs has made notable investments such as acquiring a minority stake in Modanisa, a Turkey-based Muslim fashion retailer, to support its global expansion. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Gilt Groupe, a flash sales site for fashion, and Vestiaire Collective, a platform for pre-owned luxury fashion. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' engagement in the fashion industry, particularly in supporting innovative retail models and expanding market presence.
16. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)
- Website: av.vc
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2023
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 258
- LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund
The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notable transactions include investments in Rhone Apparel, a performance apparel brand that raised $1.4 million in Series C funding, and Verishop, an e-commerce platform that has raised significant funding rounds. These transactions suggest a connection to the fashion industry, particularly through Rhone Apparel, but the fund's broader focus on technology and e-commerce may dilute its relevance to high street fashion specifically.
High Street Fashion Insights: Key Investors in the US
| Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 Global | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 2010 | 98 |
| Y Combinator | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2005 | 802 |
| FJ Labs | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2015 | 169 |
| Accel | Palo Alto, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1983 | 101 |
| L Catterton | United States (USA) | 201-500 | 1989 | 23 |
| Tiger Global | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2001 | 25 |
| Sosv | United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1995 | 170 |
| SV Angel | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2009 | 44 |
| New Enterprise Associates (NEA) | Menlo Park, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1977 | 57 |
| Advent | Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA) | 501-1000 | 1984 | 17 |
| Lerer Hippeau | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2010 | 23 |
| Goodwater Capital | Burlingame, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2014 | 41 |
| General Atlantic | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 501-1000 | 1980 | 32 |
| Kkr | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 1976 | 74 |
| Goldman Sachs | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1998 | 59 |
| Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) | Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2023 | 258 |
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