Remember when Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were the queens of teen TV and movies? From their early roles as Michelle Tanner on Full House to their iconic films like It Takes Two and New York Minute, the Olsen twins ruled Hollywood throughout the ’90s and early 2000s. But after stepping away from acting in 2004, the twins took a major turn—into the world of fashion. Fast forward to 2024, and Mary-Kate and Ashley are now full-fledged fashion moguls, running their luxury brand The Row.
In a rare interview with Vogue published on September 23, 2024, the twins shared an exciting update: they’re opening a new store in Paris, marking their fifth global location. So, what else have Mary-Kate and Ashley been up to since their last film? Let’s take a look at their incredible evolution from child stars to fashion powerhouses.
The Transition from Film to Fashion
Mary-Kate and Ashley’s last major film project was New York Minute in 2004. After this, they gradually retreated from acting but were hardly stepping back from the public eye. In 2006, they launched The Row, a luxury fashion brand that redefined minimalist fashion and distinguished the twins from other celebrities who ventured into fashion. The Row quickly became a staple in the industry, known for its understated elegance and timeless appeal.
What set Mary-Kate and Ashley apart was their dedication to high-end craftsmanship, focusing on quality and design rather than relying on their celebrity status to sell their clothes. Even as they kept their personal lives out of the spotlight, their work in fashion remained front and centre. The Olsen Twins have spent their latter years propelling The Row into one of the most respected luxury brands in the industry .
Rare Public Appearances and Keeping a Low Profile
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Olsen twins’ post-Hollywood life is their extreme privacy. They’ve rarely made public appearances or granted interviews, opting instead for a low-profile lifestyle. However, they do step into the limelight for significant business moments, such as their recent interview with Vogue to discuss the upcoming opening of their Paris store.
The Paris location will be housed in a historic restaurant building, which the twins have meticulously renovated. This store marks their fifth global location, following successful launches in New York, London, and Los Angeles. As hands-on owners, the Olsens are deeply involved in every detail of the expansion. So much so, they are always continuing to ensure each store reflects their minimalist aesthetic and offers a unique experience for shoppers .
The Growth of The Row
Since its inception in 2006, The Row has grown into a major force in the fashion world. Its reputation for clean lines, sophisticated cuts, and attention to detail has made it a favorite among fashion lovers who value timeless elegance. Mary-Kate and Ashley are highly involved in every aspect of the brand, from fabric selection to store layouts, ensuring that The Row remains true to their original vision.
Personal Life: Divorce and Moving On
Although they prefer to keep their private lives out of the media, there have been moments when the Olsen twins were thrust back into the spotlight. In 2020, Mary-Kate’s divorce from Olivier Sarkozy made headlines, attracting unwanted attention. Despite the public interest in her personal life, Mary-Kate maintained a low profile throughout the proceedings, focusing on her work with The Row.
Both sisters have remained fiercely private about their personal lives, and very little is known about their day-to-day activities or relationships. Their ability to separate their high-profile business success from their private lives has helped them maintain a level of mystique that few celebrities manage to achieve .
Looking Forward: What’s Next for the Olsen Twins?
Even though they no longer appear in Hollywood, Mary-Kate and Ashley’s influence in fashion continues to rise. With the Paris store set to open soon, they’re focused on expanding their brand’s global reach while continuing to cultivate the understated, behind-the-scenes lifestyle they’ve grown accustomed to. The Row remains a beacon of minimalist luxury, and the twins’ dedication to maintaining the brand’s integrity shows no signs of slowing down.
As Mary-Kate and Ashley continue to push the boundaries of fashion while staying true to their vision, fans and fashion enthusiasts alike are eager to see what’s next for these former child stars turned fashion icons.
