Esprit was founded in 1968 by Susie and Doug Tompkins in San Francisco, California. Initially starting as a small collection of clothing, the brand quickly gained popularity for its relaxed and casual aesthetic. Throughout the years, Esprit expanded its product lines and international presence, establishing itself as a prominent player in the global fashion industry. The brand has gone through various ownership changes and restructuring, but it continues to uphold its core values of quality and sustainability.