Buy True Religion Before the Epiphany Wears Off

<font>This article covers a growing trend I have noticed over the years. Now I typically don’t write about or analyze retail stocks. However, I just wanted to make a few general and lighthearted observations (see my Back Pocket Indicator below) about a particular brand which doesn’t get too much attention on the Street. When I was in college, I noticed True Religion brand jeans starting to take off. Growing trends are easy to spot on any campus across the country, especially if you have any relationship to someone of a younger generation. True Religion Apparel Inc. (TRLG) manufactures and sells a wide variety of apparel, but I would say their bread and butter are their high end designer jean segment. The company is headquartered in Vernon, California and was founded in 2002 by the 53 year old Jeff Lubell (CEO) who has quite an extensive background in denim and apparel.</font>

<font><font>The unique thing about these jeans is that they sell for upwards of $200 - $300. They can be found in major retailers such as Nordstrom’s (JWN), Saks Fifth Avenue (SKS), Neiman Marcus, and Macy’s (M) as well as in smaller boutique shops. True Religion Apparel Inc. not only sells their clothing in major retailers, but they also own and operate 42 company branded retail stores around the world. Now you might think these prices are ridiculous compared to your average $25 Levis, but I know many people who wouldn’t be caught dead in a pair of Wranglers. </font></font>