LONDON?The company behind Calvin Klein has bought fellow US fashion brand Tommy Hilfiger for $3 billion (2.2 billion euros), Hilfiger's current owner said in a statement on Monday.

"Funds advised by Apax Partners today announced a definitive agreement to sell Tommy Hilfiger Group... to Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation for a total consideration of approximately 2.2 billion euros," Apax said.

Apax Partners, a leading British private equity group, bought Hilfiger in 2006 for 1.2 billion euros and has since boosted revenues, increased the brand's global presence and lowered its debts, Apax said.

"We've enjoyed working with them and now look forward to the next chapter in the Tommy Hilfiger story," Hilfiger chief executive Fred Gehring said.

Apax chief executive John Megrue said: "We are pleased that the company and brand are poised for continued growth."

Phillips-Van Heusen is one of the world's largest apparel companies and owns the Calvin Klein brand worldwide, the statement added. Its licensed brands include Kenneth Cole, DKNY, Sean John and Timberland.

Tommy Hilfiger is known for its all-American casual and sports clothes, often featuring the preppy look of Ivy League American students, along with fragrances and accessories.

The company was struggling in its main US market when it was bought by Apax.