The Work of Carhartt WIP

Carhartt WIP ('Work in Progress') is an interesting brand. Founded in 1889 in Detroit Michigan, the brand is well-known for its utility-wear. From dungaree overalls to their oversized vests, they are a true all American brand. Over the past years, Carhartt has established itself more than a standard American workwear brand.

Since the rise of streetwear catapulted in the 90s, brands such as Carhartt catered to youth subcultures. From the rise of hip-hop to skate culture, Carhartt earned its spot of representing what the culture was and still is. This is all thanks to Edwin Faeh.

Created back in 1989, Faeh developed Carhartt Work in Progress. With this project, Faeh was able to expand the brand by manufacturing and delivered it in Europe. By introducing the new wave of an American fashion brand to Europe, Carhartt became bigger than it was before. Known as a brand that caters and honors blue-collar workers in Detroit, the brand established its versatility. Carharrt silhouettes are known for their ruggedness - which became a prevalent style in hip-hop in the 90s. Carhartt has established its own style while maintaining their roots. Many prolific hip-hop moguls such as Tupac to Asap Rocky have rocked the famous Carhartt attire.

Moving along to what it did to the youth, it brought out representation. In an article written by Calum Gordon, he describes Carhartt's history pertaining to the UK street underground culture. More specifically, he draws in how the Carhartt WIP archives book came about. Editors Michel Lebugle and Anna Sinofzik captured images of the brand's humble beginnings. To hip-hop legends such as Beastie Boyz and Eazy-E rocking Carhartt silhouettes to the London Riots in 2011, the book showcases the span of 30 years of what the brand and how influential it became across America and Europe.

Photos from The Carhartt WIP Archives.

Today, Carhartt is still liked by many fashion lovers. Through collaborations with brands like Awake New York Clothing, A.P.C, Converse, and even Detroit music legend Moodymann, Carhartt is one of the most dominant streetwear brands known to date.