By BEN BUTLER
CELEBRITIES and underworld identities may shop at clothing chain Ed Hardy, but it seems ordinary Australians don't. Administrators have taken control of the tattoo-inspired American brand's local licensee, shutting four of the brand's 10 stores.
The move follows the closure of Ed Hardy's six stores in Westfield shopping centres six weeks ago.
Ed Hardy's international operations are unaffected.
The chain's lines, including pricey designer T-shirts, handbags and swimwear, have been favoured by celebrities including Lara Bingle and Wayne Carey's former girlfriend, Kate Neilson.
Locally, it recruited Melbourne underworld figure Mick Gatto, who yesterday confirmed he received free clothes as an Ed Hardy ambassador.
Administrator Simon Wallace-Smith has taken control of two companies, Ed Hardy and Ed Hardy Operations, and plans to hold a first meeting of creditors in Melbourne next Thursday.