Carhartt is a symbol of quality workwear and style due to its long-standing tradition of producing dependable clothing for tradespeople, alongside its more recent popularity among streetwear and fashion communities. Built on a foundation of strong materials, practical design, and a commitment to longevity, the brand has earned a reputation for garments that meet the demands of physical work while fitting seamlessly into everyday wardrobes.
From Overalls to Industry Icon
The story of Carhartt began in 1889 when Hamilton Carhartt started the company with just two sewing machines and a modest loft in Detroit. After early setbacks, he sought advice directly from railroad workers to design durable overalls suited to their needs. This hands-on approach led to the creation of the Carhartt bib overall and the enduring motto: "Honest value for an honest dollar."
Growth Through Demand and Utility
By the early 20th century, Carhartt had expanded operations across several U.S. states, including South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and California, as well as international locations like Toronto, Vancouver, Liverpool, and Paris. During World War I, the brand supplied military uniforms, underlining its commitment to practical, hard-wearing apparel.
The early 1900s also saw the introduction of the Carhartt Chore Coat, originally known as the Engineer Sack Coat. Remarkably, this design remains a key part of the collection today—an enduring symbol of utility and straightforward design.
Surviving Hard Times and Building Legacy
The Great Depression posed significant challenges, but Carhartt managed to stay afloat and continued supporting workers, both through product and principles. The brand gained further traction in the 1970s with large-scale orders for the construction of the Alaska Pipeline. These projects proved the resilience of Carhartt gear under extreme conditions.
From Jobsite to Global Recognition
In the 1980s and 90s, Carhartt began to resonate beyond its workwear roots, gaining visibility in the hip-hop scene and among artists, skaters, and musicians. The Work In Progress (WIP) division, launched in Europe, brought the brand to a wider fashion-conscious audience, maintaining its core identity while broadening its cultural reach.
The Ongoing Appeal
Today, Carhartt is worn by construction workers, creatives, and anyone seeking clothing that offers both form and function. Whether you're working outdoors or simply value rugged design, the brand’s pieces offer long-lasting performance without compromising on appearance. The ongoing stewardship by the Carhartt family ensures that each garment continues to reflect its original purpose: gear that works as hard as you do.
Explore the latest range of Carhartt clothing and discover why it's still trusted for quality and style across industries and generations.
by Neil Summers
