Mossimo Giannulli is a name that has become synonymous with both fashion innovation and legal controversy. As the founder of the iconic clothing brand Mossimo, he built a multi-million-dollar empire before facing a dramatic downfall due to his involvement in the 2019 college admissions scandal. This article delves into his background, career, and the controversies that have defined his public persona.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 4, 1963, in Los Angeles, Mossimo Giannulli was raised in Encino, California. Originally named Massimo, he changed his name to Mossimo in first grade after a teacher suggested it would be easier to pronounce. He attended the University of Southern California for three years but dropped out in 1987 to pursue his passion for fashion.
In 1986, Giannulli launched his eponymous brand, Mossimo, on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, California. With a $100,000 loan from his father, he started with beachwear and activewear, quickly gaining traction with his signature “M” logo. The brand’s early success was remarkable, generating $1 million in its first year and $4 million the following year. By 1992, Mossimo was earning $32 million annually in revenue.
Rise to Fame and Expansion
Giannulli’s business acumen led him to expand the brand beyond beachwear. In 1991, Mossimo introduced sweaters and knits, and by 1995, the line included women’s clothing and men’s tailored suits. The brand’s growth was exponential, and by 1996, it had 300 employees and was generating $70 million in annual revenue.
That same year, Mossimo went public on the New York Stock Exchange, making Giannulli the youngest CEO of a publicly traded company at the time. At its peak, the stock reached $50 per share, valuing his stake at $500 million. However, the company faced challenges when it attempted to transition into high fashion, which alienated its original fan base and failed to attract new customers.
Selling Mossimo and Launching G/FORE
After the decline of Mossimo, Giannulli sold the company to Iconix Brand Group in 2006 for $135 million in cash and debt absorption. He then founded G/FORE in 2011, a sportswear brand focused on golf. The brand gained popularity and was eventually sold to Peter Millar in 2018 for an undisclosed amount. Giannulli remained as the chief creative officer but left the company in 2019 after being implicated in the college admissions scandal.
The College Admissions Scandal
In March 2019, Mossimo Giannulli and his wife, Lori Loughlin, were arrested as part of the FBI’s investigation into the college admissions scandal. They were accused of paying $500,000 to falsely designate their daughters as recruits to the University of Southern California’s rowing team. Both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud.
Giannulli was sentenced to five months in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 250 hours of community service. He served four months before being released on home confinement in April 2021. Loughlin received a two-month sentence and was released in December 2020.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Mossimo Giannulli married actress Lori Loughlin in 1997. Together, they have two daughters, Isabella Rose and Olivia Jade, and a son, Gianni. The couple has been involved in several high-profile real estate transactions, including a $14 million mansion in Bel Air, California, which they sold in 2020. They later purchased a $13 million home in La Quinta, California, and another in Hidden Hills, which they sold in 2025.
Despite their wealth, the couple’s marriage faced challenges. In October 2025, it was revealed that they had separated after nearly 28 years of marriage. While no legal proceedings had been filed, sources indicated that they were living apart and taking a break from their relationship.
Net Worth and Financial Status
At the height of his career, Mossimo Giannulli’s net worth was estimated at $500 million. However, following the sale of Mossimo and the fallout from the college admissions scandal, his financial status has been affected. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $80 million, shared with his wife, Lori Loughlin.
Despite the challenges, Giannulli has continued to work in the fashion industry. In October 2025, he was spotted participating in a photoshoot for G/FORE, signaling his efforts to rebuild his career.
Legal and Public Impact
The college admissions scandal not only affected Giannulli’s personal life but also had a significant impact on his professional reputation. Brands like Target distanced themselves from the Mossimo brand, and his former partners and colleagues expressed disappointment. However, Giannulli has continued to work in the fashion industry, albeit under a different name.
His case has sparked discussions about the intersection of wealth, power, and legal accountability. While some view him as a fallen entrepreneur, others see him as a man trying to rebuild his life after a major setback.
Conclusion
Mossimo Giannulli’s journey from a young entrepreneur to a convicted felon is a complex story of ambition, success, and failure. His contributions to the fashion industry are undeniable, but his legal troubles have overshadowed much of his legacy. As he continues to navigate the aftermath of his past, Giannulli remains a figure of interest in both the fashion world and the broader public consciousness.
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