From the American factory worker to the fashion catwalks
Carhartt is much more than a workwear brand. It's an American legend, born in 1889 in Detroit, that has spanned more than a century while remaining true to its values: quality, durability, and authenticity. Today, Carhartt has become a global streetwear icon, worn by blue-collar workers, skaters, rappers, and urban fashion enthusiasts.
The origins: 1889
It all began in 1889 in Detroit, Michigan, when Hamilton Carhartt founded the Hamilton Carhartt & Company.
Its mission: to create robust and durable workwear for American workers who build the nation's railroads, factories, and infrastructure.
The first product: overalls made of thick cotton canvas, designed to withstand the toughest working conditions.
The slogan of the time: "Honest value for an honest dollar".
The expansion: 1900-1920
At the beginning of the 20th century, Carhartt experienced rapid growth thanks to the American industrial revolution.
Railway, mining, factory and construction workers are massively adopting Carhartt clothing for its exceptional durability.
In 1910, Carhartt opened factories across the United States and Canada.
During World War I (1914-1918), Carhartt supplied uniforms and work clothes to the American army.
The innovation: Duck Canvas fabric
Carhartt is developing its iconic fabric: Duck Canvas.
This thick, tightly woven cotton fabric is extremely resistant to wear, tear, and weathering.
Duck Canvas became Carhartt's signature fabric and remains the most used fabric by the brand to this day.
Iconic color: "Carhartt Brown", a beige-brown shade that is instantly recognizable.
Iconic products
- Detroit Jacket
• The iconic work jacket
• Duck Canvas
• Quilted lining
• Multiple pockets
• Durable and timeless
- Bib Overalls
• The classic work overalls
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Tool pockets
• Robust and functional
- Chore Coat
• Short work jacket
• 4 front pockets
• Straight cut
• Versatile
- Active Jacket
• Lined technical jacket
• Thermal insulation
• Wind resistant
- Beanie (Hat)
• The iconic beanie
• Embroidered Carhartt logo
• Warm and durable
The streetwear revolution: 1980-1990
In the 1980s and 1990s, Carhartt underwent an unexpected transformation.
American skaters, graffiti artists, and rappers embrace Carhartt clothing for its durability, authentic style, and affordable price.
Carhartt baggy pants are becoming a hip-hop staple.
Rappers like Tupac, Notorious BIG, Wu-Tang Clan and Snoop Dogg wear Carhartt, propelling the brand into urban culture.
Carhartt WIP: 1989
In 1989, Carhartt launched Carhartt Work In Progress (WIP) in Europe.
Carhartt WIP adapts classic American workwear for the European market with more fitted cuts and more urban designs.
Carhartt WIP quickly became a streetwear reference in Europe, worn by skaters, artists and urban fashion enthusiasts.
Today, Carhartt WIP is a brand in its own right, with its own collections, stores and collaborations.
Carhartt in hip-hop culture
Carhartt is deeply rooted in hip-hop culture:
- Popularized by the biggest rappers (Tupac, Biggie, Wu-Tang, Snoop, Eminem)
- Symbol of authenticity and street credibility
- Durable clothing for harsh urban conditions
- Affordable and accessible prices
- Raw, no-frills workwear style
Carhartt in skateboarding
Carhartt is also a cult brand in the world of skateboarding:
- Clothing resistant to falls and wear
-Loose and comfortable fit
- Authentic and unpretentious style
- Collaborations with skate brands (Vans, Supreme, Palace)
Iconic collaborations
Carhartt has collaborated with numerous brands and artists:
- APC x Carhartt WIP
- Junya Watanabe x Carhartt WIP
- Vetements x Carhartt
- Paccbet x Carhartt WIP
- Awake NY x Carhartt WIP
- Brain Dead x Carhartt WIP
- Commitment and sustainability
Carhartt is committed to more responsible production:
- Exceptional durability (clothes that last for decades)
- Repair program
- Use of organic cotton (some collections)
- Transparency in the supply chain
- Made in the USA (some models)
Why does Carhartt remain a safe bet?
- Exceptional quality and legendary durability
- Authenticity and heritage of over 130 years
- Timeless workwear style
- Affordable prices
- Versatility (work, streetwear, skateboarding)
- Rooted in hip-hop and skate culture
- High resale value on the vintage market
The vintage Carhartt
Vintage Carhartt pieces from the 80s and 90s are extremely sought after:
- Superior manufacturing quality (Made in USA)
- Authentic Duck Canvas
- Iconic faded colors
- Pieces worn by hip-hop legends
- Collector's value
Vintage price: €40-200 depending on model and condition
At Fripes Sélect
We offer a selection of authentic vintage Carhartt pieces, carefully chosen for their quality and condition. Detroit jackets, chore coats, overalls... Discover our collection.
Buying vintage Carhartt means owning a piece of American history and a garment that will last for decades.
At Fripes Sélect, elegance is what we respect!