Community-based streetwear brand: Hundreds

Brand Story

The Hundreds is a community-based streetwear brand and media platform emphasizing “People Over Product.” Founded in 2003 by Bobby Kim (Bobby Hundreds) and Ben Shenassafar (Ben Hundreds), the brand draws inspiration from 1990s workwear and California’s subculture tribes.

The Hundreds

Growth Journey

  • 2003: Bobby Kim and Ben Shenassafar establish The Hundreds in Los Angeles, focusing on storytelling through clothing.
  • 2007: The brand opens its first retail store in Los Angeles, followed by locations in San Francisco (2008), New York City (2010), and Santa Monica (2011).
  • 2011: Complex magazine ranks The Hundreds as the fifth-greatest streetwear brand.
  • 2023: The Hundreds celebrates its 20th anniversary with a collaboration with UCLA, highlighting its enduring influence in streetwear.

Fact-Based Information

  • Founded: 2003
  • Founders: Bobby Kim (Bobby Hundreds) and Ben Shenassafar (Ben Hundreds)
  • Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
  • Product Range: Clothing, footwear, eyewear, and a print magazine
  • Retail Locations: Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, Santa Monica

Why the Brand Is Popular

  1. Community Focus: The Hundreds prioritizes community engagement, emphasizing “People Over Product.”
  2. Authentic Storytelling: The brand integrates personal narratives and cultural elements into its designs, resonating with a diverse audience.
  3. Collaborations: Partnerships with various brands and institutions, such as the 20th-anniversary collaboration with UCLA, keep the brand relevant and innovative.
  4. Media Platform: Beyond apparel, The Hundreds operates a media platform that discusses streetwear culture, fostering a deeper connection with its audience.
  5. Pioneering Spirit: As one of the early adopters in the streetwear scene, The Hundreds has maintained its influence through consistent quality and cultural relevance.

Key Features

FeatureDescription
Community EngagementEmphasis on “People Over Product,” fostering a loyal customer base.
Diverse Product RangeOffers clothing, footwear, eyewear, and publishes a print magazine.
Cultural StorytellingDesigns inspired by 1990s workwear and Californian subcultures.
Strategic CollaborationsEngages in partnerships that enhance brand visibility and cultural relevance.
Media IntegrationOperates a media platform discussing streetwear culture and related topics.

Inspirational Thinking

The Hundreds embodies a philosophy that transcends traditional retail by intertwining community values with cultural storytelling. This approach fosters a sense of belonging among consumers, encouraging them to be part of a movement rather than mere purchasers of products. By maintaining authenticity and prioritizing people, The Hundreds inspires a new generation to value community engagement and cultural expression in the fashion industry.

For a deeper insight into the brand’s origins and philosophy, you might find this interview with Bobby Hundreds enlightening.