Designer Tommy Hilfiger Sues Malibu Rental Company Over Pricing Dispute

MALIBU, CA - Fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger is suing a company that rents out Malibu homes, alleging he was wrongfully denied a $53,000 refund after being told he'd have to pay more for short-term use of a property than what both sides originally agreed.

Hilfiger's Los Angeles Superior Court lawsuit was filed Tuesday against Wyoming-based Malibu Venues Inc., alleging breach of contract. The suit seeks a return of the $53,000 rental fee, plus interest and compensatory damages.

A representative for Malibu Venues did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

The suit states that Hilfiger and Malibu Venues agreed last July 28 on the rental of the property for five nights for $53,000. But less than a month later, the company told Hilfiger that the cost would be higher than the parties previously agreed upon, the suit says.

The next day, Hilfger refused to pay the higher rate and asked for a refund, according to his complaint. He says that despite a promise by the firm to give him back his money by Aug. 31, he still has not received it.

The 66-year-old New York resident founded the Tommy Hilfiger Corp. in 1985.

-- City News Service, photo credit: Saloca, Wiki Commons