Black America’s Hard Fought Integration of Southern Textile Mills
The mills and the stories we hold so dear in our visions of Americana belie a history of unjust exclusion that took generations to correct.
History
We look behind the scenes at the stories that inspired and created some of the best known brands, items, and materials on the market today.
Remembering the Zoot Suit Riots on Their 77th Anniversary
The Zoot Suit Riots, spurred by racist backlash against Mexican-American youth from American servicemen, are now more relevant than ever.
Bad Air, Bad Judgment, and Unwashed Hands – A History of Medical PPE
Not the typical accessories one might usually wear, but we are not in typical times! Learn about the development of protective equipment through the ages.
Tie-Dye – A History of Shibori Gone Global
My most vivid memories of tie-dye took place at a rather tedious summer camp I attended. As a child, I…
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What Ended Child Labor in the US – Labor Rights History
We may take it as a forgone conclusion, but kids weren't always spared from horrific working conditions. Learn what made the change.
How Miners Lived, Dressed, and Died in the 1800s
Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis made their patented rivet pants to serve the needs of miners in the 19th century, here's how they spent the rest of their days.
The Rough History of Biker Cuts
The biker vest (or cut) is the way most motorcycle clubs show their affiliation and has been a staple of the outlaw culture since WWII.
Martin Luther King Jr. and the Workwear of Civil Rights
On MLK day, we take a look at the workwear styles of Civil Rights and their immense cultural influence on politics as well as fashion.
Labor Rights History – Crystal Lee Sutton, the Real Life Norma Rae
We look to the people who not only made our clothes popular, but the workers that made them in the first place in our new series on labor rights.
Behind Bleu de Travail – Denim’s European Cousin
Bleu de Travail, or France's "work blues" are the European answer to workwear and we're here to explain what it's all about on that side of the Atlantic.