Left Field

Martexin has been making high quality waxed fabrics since the 1930s. Many outdoor companies have used them for years, and I look for companies that have a high passion for what they do because I know I will be getting the best quality. The lining is a hearty Woolrich fabric, which is still made in America, in my home state Pennsylvania. The duck pocket is an original detail from a 1940s hunting vest and I like to incorporate key details like that even if the fit and other details are updated. I think it adds a lot of character. I would hope that some people who buy it would actually use it for hunting, but it'll likely end up to be a pocket for an iPad.

I have been making all my clothes here and pushing made in America since 1998. To me it's not a trend, it's the foundation for making vintage inspired American clothing.

Vintage inspiration is important, but I think a lot of brands take it too literally and don't update or create new details. It can get really boring seeing 500 different work shirts that all look exactly alike. Branding was the thing that made vintage clothing so cool and unique. I like to do it subtly and only if it adds to the aesthetic. I look at the key details that people love about vintage clothing and try to recreate them in my own style. I recently updated our jeans with a new pocket bag made from a Left Field canvas bandanna for extra durability. I always try to find something new to make rather than copy what the fashion pioneers are doing.