Despite their initial popularity, Ed Hardy shirts eventually became associated with over-the-top fashion and fell out of favor. By the early 2010s, the brand faced criticism for being too gaudy or “trying too hard.” Overexposure and counterfeit products diluted its exclusivity, and the flashy aesthetic became a punchline in some fashion circles. As trends shifted toward minimalism and streetwear, Ed Hardy’s loud style seemed out of step with the new wave of fashion sensibilities.