When looking for the next addition to your closet, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of mass-produced men's clothing. For the discerning buyer who values expert craftsmanship and investing in high-quality, long-lasting apparel, American-made menswear is more than a style choice—it’s a statement.
By choosing made-in-USA-produced apparel, you can elevate your wardrobe, support the stateside economy, and promote sustainability. This guide will walk you through the importance of American craftsmanship, how to identify it, and why it matters.
The Value of American-Made Quality
First, let’s start with the basics - what is American-made quality?
Simply put, it’s a combination of factors such as superior materials, expert craftsmanship, and attention to detail that results in a garment that looks good out of the box and lasts for years. When you invest in American-made menswear, you are investing in timeless style and longevity.
Choosing American-made products also means supporting sustainable practices, protecting our hard-won US labor laws, and benefiting from shorter, more transparent supply chains and energy-efficient, eco-friendly production processes.
Let’s elaborate:
American-Made Quality Is...Expert Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship of American-made clothing is second to none.
Skilled artisans take the time to carefully cut, sew, and finish each garment by hand. For example, Fall River, a notable location for American manufacturing and craftsmanship, is home to renowned brands like New England Shirt Co., Frank Clegg and other made in USA mens clothing brands.
At Devium, we prioritize all USA partnerships because the American community is at the heart of our mission. Building strong connections with small businesses (often family-owned and decades old) is fundamental to our values as a company and as individuals.
By supporting USA textile mills, thread producers, snap and zipper fabricators, button crafters, and bespoke sewing houses, we help create and sustain jobs in America and strengthen the resilience of those closest to us.
American-Made Quality Is...Attention to Detail
In addition to sourcing the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship, the best all-American-made brands also value attention to detail. From intricate stitching to custom buttons, every aspect of the garment is thoughtfully considered and flawlessly executed.
This attention to detail ensures that every piece is made with precision and care, resulting in a superior product. The result is a well-constructed garment that fits perfectly, feels comfortable and is built for the long haul.
At Devium, we meticulously focus on the details so you don't have to. Since all our design, sourcing, and manufacturing happens within the USA, we can closely oversee each stage of production. This dedication to quality assurance ensures that the fit, finish, and functionality of our products are always of the highest standard.
American-Made Quality Is...Using Best Material
A big part of what makes high-quality clothing so special is the use of high-quality materials from transparent origins.
The best American-made brands source their fabrics from local mills known for their premium textiles – rather than importing fabrics far across the Pacific Ocean. And while these domestic materials are more expensive than what mass-produced fast-fashion brands use, they last longer and age more slowly and gracefully.
For example, at Devium, we use only the materials that pass our rigorous standards for transparency, comfort, and longevity. Our signature items are made only from 100% US-sourced materials.
Bottom line? We create long-lasting, essential pieces that you won’t throw away after a few wears. And if, for whatever reason, it does end up in an unlikely condition... we have a Devium Lifelong Guarantee for that.
How to Identify American-Made Quality
Now that you understand the value of American-made quality, how can you ensure that the clothes you buy are truly authentic?
Here are a few tips to help you identify American-made menswear:
Look for the "Made in the USA" or "Made in America" Label
Looking for the 'made in USA' label is the most obvious way to identify American-made quality, but is also the “least common denominator” approach that can lead to heartbreak when you eventually realize you’ve been duped. If you’re shopping in person, start by looking for the Made in USA label on the garment, which, according to the Federal Trade Commission, can only be used if “all or virtually all” of the product is made in the USA.
If you’re shopping online, look for a reference to Made in USA on the product page of the style you’re contemplating buying. If a style is Made in the USA, there will be a prominent mention of such in the description! If, instead, the descriptor remains silent on where the product is made, you can bet that when you receive it, the labeling will disclose it’s been made somewhere outside our 50 states.
Be aware that some brands may use phrases like “Designed in the USA” or “Assembled in the USA” to evoke the Made in USA feeling without breaking an FTC law. Most likely, if a label says “Designed in the USA,” the brand has an office in the US where its products are designed.
These designs are then shipped overseas to be patterned and developed and then sewn, using foreign-produced fabrics and trims and a foreign sewing house that are all far beyond the protective arm of US labor laws.
Research the Brand
Many American-made brands are transparent about their production processes and proudly share this information on their websites or social media pages. For example, Duckworth is a brand that is transparent about its manufacturing processes, noting that while some items are made in the USA, some are produced using imported materials. Take the time to do a little research and see if you can find any information about where and how the clothing is made.
Look for Handcrafted Details
Many American-made brands take pride in incorporating handmade elements into their clothing, such as unique stitching or hand-painted designs. These small yet significant details are a clear indication of quality and attention to detail.
Check the Country of Origin for Materials
In addition to being made in America, some brands also source their materials from local suppliers. This means they’re not technically “all American-made.”
Being an “all-American-made” brand not only supports the economy but also ensures that the entire production process is held to high standards.
Pay Attention to the Fit and Feel
Quality clothing should not only look good but also feel comfortable to wear. American-made brands often prioritize fit and use high-quality materials that are soft and comfortable on the skin.
Ask for Recommendations
If you're new to shopping for American-made menswear, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or family members who are familiar with this type of apparel. As more discerning men decide to go American Made, you’ll find more friends and colleagues who can offer valuable insights and guide you toward reputable brands known for their quality products.
Search “Made in USA” or “American Made” for folks who make it a mission to educate consumers on brands that are reliably made in the USA.
Website directories such as The Made in America Movement and StillMadeinUSA and old-school hardcopy directories such as Crafted With Pride spend a lot of time and effort curating American Brands.
Social network forums such as the MadeinUSA subreddit on Reddit have robust discussions on Made in USA products, including apparel and trade tips on how to find the best Made in USA clothing.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Don’t be duped! Overseas brands spend a lot of time masquerading as Made in the USA, hoping you won’t look too closely before hitting the “buy” button. While it's important to support American-made quality, it's also essential to slow down, take a closer look, and be aware of potential red flags. Here are a few things to watch out for when shopping for American-made menswear:
- Misleading Labels: Again, be cautious of phrases like "Designed in the USA" or "Assembled in the USA," which may not necessarily mean that the clothing was made entirely in America.
- Poor Quality Materials: Just because something is made in America doesn't automatically make it high-quality. Be sure to research the brand and check its materials before making a purchase.
- Lack of Transparency: Brands that do not provide information about their production processes or sources of materials may have something to hide. Transparency is key when it comes to authentic American-made quality.
- Unrealistic Prices: Authentic, high-quality American-made menswear may be more expensive than mass-produced clothing due to the use of superior materials and expert craftsmanship. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Pressing the Go Button
On the other hand, here are some indicators that a brand is genuinely committed to American-made quality:
- Transparency: Brands that openly share information about their production processes and sources of materials are more likely to be authentic.
- Collaborations with American Artisans: Collaborating with USA artisans for unique handcrafted details is a good sign that a brand values quality and supports the community.
- Community Involvement: Brands that give back to the Made in USA community or support these causes demonstrate a commitment to not just their customers but also their American neighbors.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Some American-made brands also prioritize eco-friendly practices in addition to high-quality craftsmanship. Look for certifications or initiatives that show a brand's dedication to sustainability.
Why It Matters
Choosing to invest in American-made men's clothing is not just a fashion statement—it’s also a conscious choice that has a positive impact on various levels:
Support the Local Economy
When you purchase from American-made brands, your money stays within the country and supports local businesses. Todd Shelton, for example, is a brand that supports local manufacturing in New Jersey. This helps sustain jobs and contributes to the growth of the economy.
At Devium, we are dedicated to revitalizing the small businesses within our country’s apparel supply chain—one Made in the USA garment at a time. Our carefully selected partners, from New Jersey to California, produce the highest quality materials and meticulously craft your next garment.
By proactively collaborating with these companies, we play an integral role in restoring these legacy entrepreneurial ventures, many of which are family-owned and operated for generations.
Promote Sustainability
American-made clothing often follows stricter environmental regulations and ethical production practices, making it more sustainable than mass-produced garments. Additionally, since these clothes are made with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, they have a longer lifespan and reduce the need for constant replacement.
Sustainability goes beyond sourcing eco-conscious materials woven offshores or promising to offset our international production by planting a tree for every garment. Choosing American-made products can lead to more sustainable practices due to shorter supply chains and energy-efficient production processes.
Remember: even if a sustainable fabric is sourced internationally, the environmental impact of shipping a container overseas produces pollution that counteracts that.
Preserve Heritage and Tradition
American-made menswear is often deeply rooted in the country's history and traditional craftsmanship techniques. By investing in these pieces, you are also preserving and celebrating American heritage. This not only supports the continuity of traditional skills but also keeps them alive for future generations to appreciate.
Make a Personal Statement
Choosing to wear American-made menswear is a statement in itself. It showcases your support for locally made products and signifies your commitment to quality, attention to detail, and ethical production practices. By wearing these garments with pride, you are making a personal choice that reflects your values and aligns with your lifestyle.
FAQs
Is American-made clothing more expensive?
Most of the time, the simple answer is YES. Think about it. The majority of a style’s cost is probably in its sewing, and American sewists make a living wage that is sometimes 10x-15x as much as third-world countries. However, it's important to remember that investing in quality clothing can save money in the long run by reducing the need for constant replacement. Be sure to check out our Super Savings section to get the best bang for your buck!
Can I find a variety of styles in American-made clothing?
Yes, many American-made brands offer a wide range of styles and designs to cater to various tastes and preferences. Many of these brands have 'best seller' items that are popular among customers. From classic suiting to casual streetwear, there is something for everyone in the world of American-made menswear.
Are there any guarantees on the quality of American-made clothing?
While there is no guarantee for perfection, American-made brands often have strict quality control processes in place to ensure that their products meet a certain standard. Additionally, many brands offer warranty or repair services for their products as an added quality assurance.
As mentioned, at Devium, we offer a Lifelong Guarantee on all products as a testament to our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Investing in American-made menswear is a decision that promises quality, sustainability, and style… By choosing American-made, you make a powerful statement about your values and priorities.
Explore our collection of American-made men's clothing today and experience the difference that true craftsmanship makes.