The end of the year marks a period of reflection, and brands are using this time to identify their most iconic pieces that have sustained decades.
For heritage workwear brand Carhartt, that includes garments that travel as far back as 1889, when the company got its start providing durable clothing for railroad workers. Since then, the brand has become the go-to choice for consumers seeking out utility-inspired apparel currently flooding the runway.
Carhartt compiled four of its most iconic garments for a special collection released on Wednesday. The Heritage Icon Collection consists of a Watch Hat folded beanie in black, tan and navy; a Workwear Pocket T-Shirt in tan and black; an Active Jac hooded zip-up jacket; and Firm Duck Double Front Work Dungaree with added reinforcement through the leg. The collection is immediately available on the Carhartt website.
Each piece further nods to its heritage with a “Car in Heart” logo patch used when the brand first launched. This collection also sees its signature “Red Duck” fabric used during World War I when indigo was impossible to source from other countries.
This is just one of many history lessons supplied by the brand, which in 2017, released a campaign directed by “Game of Thrones” actor Jason Momoa focusing on its railroad worker legacy.
While the brand continues to stay loyal to its worker demographic and release functional updates such as better mobility in its garments, it’s also tapped into an audience of fashionistas. In November, the brand partnered with Motown Records for an anniversary collection that showcased Carhartt’s artistic range.
“With over 130 years of crafting high-quality, hardworking gear, our goal is to continue pushing the industry forward while always remembering where we came from,” Alex Guerrero, senior vice president, general manager, global product at Carhartt, said. “We will continue to look for ways to evolve and innovate our pieces with durability, reliability and quality remaining our highest priority.”
