Reviving Vintage Workwear: The Story of Union Overall Company
Overall success: The small-town appeal of vintage workwear
Image: Washington Examiner
Brian Patrick and Brandy Collins run Union Overall Company in Norfolk, Virginia, specializing in curated vintage workwear and military apparel. Their shop, inspired by local history, connects fashion with the American labor narrative, blending modern designs with vintage aesthetics.
- 01Union Overall Company was founded by Brian Patrick in 2024, focusing on vintage apparel from the early 20th century.
- 02The store features unique items, including a 70-year-old wool jacket with 'Merchants & Farmers' chain-stitched on the back.
- 03Brian's designs incorporate historical elements, such as a denim jacket inspired by the original Union Overall Company, which operated from 1901 to 1922.
- 04The philosophy of wabi-sabi influences Brian's approach, celebrating imperfection in vintage garments.
- 05Brian aims for his creations to be cherished by future generations, fostering a connection between past and present.
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Brian Patrick, alongside his wife Brandy Collins, operates Union Overall Company in Norfolk, Virginia, a store dedicated to vintage workwear and military apparel. Launched in 2024, the shop reflects a rich history, inspired by the original Union Overall Company that existed from 1901 to 1922. Patrick's passion for vintage clothing stems from his upbringing in a region steeped in labor history, where the Navy and shipyards have shaped local culture. The shop showcases an array of items, including a striking wool jacket with 'Merchants & Farmers' stitched on the back, and aims to blend modern design with historical influences. Patrick emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, often drawing inspiration from the past while modernizing designs for today's consumers. His philosophy embraces the beauty of imperfection, influenced by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. Through his work, Patrick hopes that future generations will appreciate and connect with the stories behind the garments they wear.
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The revival of vintage workwear contributes to local culture and economy by promoting historical awareness and sustainable fashion.
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