Why Does American-Made Clothing Cost More?

If you’ve ever looked at a price tag on American-made clothing and compared it to a non-American counterpart, you might have scratched your head. $120 for a plain white t-shirt? Really? Meanwhile, that fast-fashion brand down the street has one for $10—and, heck, they’ll throw in a second one for a penny.

But here’s the deal. That extra money you’re spending on American-made clothing isn’t just vanishing into thin air or lining someone’s yacht fund. It’s actually going toward things that matter—things like quality, sustainability, supporting hardworking neighbors, and fulfilling a responsibility to produce goods ethically.

Today, we’re breaking down why American-made clothing costs more and why it’s one of the few situations where expensive doesn’t just mean “overpriced.”

FACT: Buying American-made isn’t just about spending; it’s about investing.

The Real Cost of Made-in-China

Here’s the ugly truth most people don’t want to admit. That $10 shirt from Fast Fashion Co.? It comes with hidden costs…

And they’re costs we all pay eventually.

First, there’s the quality issue. Fast fashion is, simply put, built to fall apart. It might survive a couple of washes before the seams split, the fabric pills, and the whole thing becomes your new dust rag. Then you’re buying another $10 shirt. And another. And another. Before you know it, you’ve spent $100 trying to avoid spending $50 upfront on something built to last.

Then there’s the environmental damage. Fast fashion isn’t just cheap—it’s dirty. The textile industry is one of the largest polluters on the planet. Synthetic fabrics shed microplastics into the water supply, and the clothes themselves often end up in landfills within months (illegally, too… just out check this landfill).

Finally, worst of all, there’s the human cost. Many low-cost garments are made overseas in factories where workers earn pennies an hour (among having to wash their hair on lunch breaks because they have so little time off… we wish we made this up). 

Grueling shifts, unsafe conditions, and no concept of “fairness.” Every time we choose the “bargain” over the “responsible buy,” we’re voting with our wallets for this cycle to continue. 

And once you see it for what it is, it’s pretty hard to un-see it- just take the Rana factory collapse in Bangladesh. 

Investing in America: What You're Really Paying For

Okay, now that we’ve dragged fast fashion, let’s talk about why American-made clothing costs more—and why it’s actually worth it.

Preserving manufacturing capacity is crucial to support the economy and drive innovation, ensuring that domestic manufacturing can sustain communities and align with responsible and sustainable practices.

Here’s what you’re paying for when you choose that garment with the “Made in the USA” label:

1. Durability That Saves You Money in the Long Run

Want to buy fewer clothes while looking like someone who’s got their act together? American-made clothing is often crafted with far better fabrics and workmanship. High-quality stitching, ethically sourced materials, and actual attention to detail mean these pieces, including hoodies, are built to go the distance (and we have a guarantee to prove it).

Think about it. Wouldn’t you rather own one $100 hoodie that lasts for years than buy a $20 hoodie five times in two years? That’s $100 vs. $100—but one saves six trips to the store, endless frustration, and keeps your trash can…you know, less full.

When you buy American-made, you’re getting clothes that are investments, not disposable TikTok trends. And trust me, your future wallet will thank you.

2. A Better Planet (and Future for Yourself)

Fast fashion ≠ sustainability. The clothing industry is a leading contributor to pollution, water waste, and deforestation. American-made clothing brands often prioritize sustainable practices, and there’s nothing better than wearing a clean, crisp shirt that you know didn’t destroy a river to create.

From utilizing locally sourced materials to adhering to strict environmental regulations, it’s a greener choice. Buying American-made isn’t just “saving the Earth”—it’s saving your future, your kids’ future, and all the animals you like to see in nature documentaries.

3. Jobs for Your Neighbors

Every time you buy American-made clothing, you help pay someone’s rent, send their child to college, or ensure they can afford their medical bills. You also fuel local businesses and strengthen the economy in your community.

Unlike when you buy from overseas conglomerates, the money you spend on American-made products stays in the U.S. That means more jobs, more innovation, and an economy that isn’t tiptoeing toward collapse (thank you very much).

Ever heard the phrase “a rising tide lifts all boats”? Supporting American manufacturing creates a ripple effect. When these businesses thrive, the entire economy benefits—yes, including you. Call it karma. Call it justice. Call it a virtuous circle. The point is, when you buy American-made, you’re fueling a positive cycle that benefits everyone around you.

4. Non-Negotiable Standards (That Also Save Lives)

Workers’ rights in the U.S. aren’t perfect, but they’re a hundred times better than in countries where garment workers can literally die on the job. American-made clothing is manufactured under stringent labor laws, ensuring fair wages, safe conditions, and ethical treatment.

When you buy American, you’re saying, “I won’t wear clothes stitched together with exploitation.” It’s putting your money where your morals are—and seriously, when’s the last time a purchase left you feeling proud?

Yes, It Costs More—But It Comes Back to You 

Here’s the kicker. When you choose American-made, that extra cost isn’t a “waste.” It’s an investment, and it pays you back in ways you don’t immediately see.

• It saves you money in the long run because you’re buying clothes that won’t fall apart.
• It ensures you’re leaving a smaller environmental footprint, so you’re not contributing to the gradual destruction of your own backyard.
• It strengthens your economy by putting cash directly into the hands of people who work, spend, and produce in America

Ultimately, it’s not just about what you’re buying. It’s about how you’re buying, who it’s helping, and what it stands for. And isn’t that exactly the kind of world you want to live in?

Are You One of Us?

Your choices have power.

Devium is made for the relentlessly passionate—those who refuse to settle for average and are driven to live life on their own terms. We’re for the men who value quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, who see beyond trends and aim to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Our community, from San Francisco to Maine, is built for those who embrace American-made excellence, who forge strong partnerships, and who care about the details that make all the difference. They are the ones who strive for greatness, take the road less traveled, and care deeply about the future they’re helping to shape.

At Devium, we’re proud to be champions of American-made clothing. We believe that quality garments can (and should) be made with integrity, and we refuse to compromise on our commitment to ethical production practices.

If you’re someone who values timeless style, purpose, and a commitment to doing things the right way, you’re one of us and Devium is for you.

FAQs

How can I be sure that it's made in America?   

Do your research on the label! The FTC requires all products to have a country of origin label, so you can easily see where the garment was made. You can also do some research on the brand's website or reach out to them directly for more information. 

What about international brands that claim to be ethical? 

It's always best to do your research and make sure their claims align with their actions. Sometimes, international brands may outsource part of their manufacturing process to other countries where labor laws and working conditions may not meet ethical standards. 

It's important to dig a little deeper and understand the full story behind a brand's production methods before making a purchase decision. 

How can I support American-made clothing without breaking my budget? 

Three words... Devium's Super Savings.

Aside from that, look for sales and discounts from other American-made brands, shop at local markets or small businesses, and consider investing in quality pieces that will last longer instead of constantly buying cheap, fast fashion items.

Invest in What Matters

If you made it this far, congratulations—you’re now better informed than 90% of shoppers out there. The next time you’re browsing racks (or clicking “Add to Cart”), think about where every dollar is going.

Is it fueling positive change or making a bad system worse?

Buying American-made isn’t just a fashion choice. It’s a commitment to quality, ethics, and sustainability. It costs more, but its value is immeasurable.

Want to start small? Pick one piece of clothing to invest in. A well-made jacket, a solid flannel shirt, reliable chino pants, or some timeless boots. Trust us—once you experience the difference, it’s hard to look back.

Because at the end of the day, you’re not just buying clothes. You’re buying into a better world.