Everything in menswear seems to be accelerated these days. There’s always a new collaboration or capsule collection to cover, a sale here or a new trend there. Creative directors come, fashion shows go. This is, of course, part of the fun of following the industry: it never gets old. But more and more, there’s a growing trend to slow down and take a breath. And there’s no better way to do so than by paying attention to artisan menswear brands.
These artisan brands can help you take stock of what you need versus what you want. Many also are the answer to the growing concerns about the human rights abuses and carbon footprint along the global production line of large fashion brands.
Then there’s the fact that handcrafted clothing tends to look way better than anything on the mainstream racks right now. With intentional design, quality, and the use of deadstock and artisan fabrics, there artisan menswear brands are leading the pack.
BODE
While BODE didn’t begin the trend of bringing artisan crafts into the menswear space, it’s safe to say that its cleverly made garments and distinct design style helped to bring a wider audience into the fold. Started in 2016, BODE has created some of the most interesting garments that utilize anything from quilts to appliqué to create one-of-a-kind pieces that double as art as much as they are clothing.
What to buy:
- Pony Appliqué Shorts: $460
- Biology Quilt Jacket: $1,154
Graziano & Gutiérrez
Based out of Portland, Oregon, Graziano & Gutiérrez partners with Mexican artisan textile makers in Oaxaca and Chiapas to create made-to-order garments that have an American workwear feel to them. G&G’s commitment to educating its followers on indigenous communities and using sustainable practices in its garment production shows that the company don’t just talk the talk, but walks the walk.
What to buy:
Harago
Harago utilizes the rich textile traditions of India to produce a gorgeous array of pants, shirts, and jackets. With an emphasis on highlighting techniques from small makers, Harago ensures that culture and craftsmanship go hand-in-hand with each new product release. WIth fans including Drake and Harry Styles, this is a brand that’s just at the precipice of making it big, but seems sure to never lose that artisan, small-business feel.
What to buy:
Karu Research
Established in 2021, it’s impressive to see the vision of Karu Research appear so realized in such a short span of time. Like Harago, Karu relies on artisan makers throughout the Indian subcontinent to lend their expertise to the final product. From Bengali weavers to embroiderers in Delhi, Karu utilizes a roster of craftspeople to create clothing that’s equally stylish and timeless.
What to buy:
- Benarasi Pleated Trousers: $420
- Yellow Beaded Camp Shirt: $345
Tony Shirtmakers
Based in Maine, Tony Shirtmakers creates bespoke, made-to-order custom shirts that mix elements of traditional menswear and Tony’s personal flavor. Utilizing anything from cashmere flannel to moleskin to linen and everything in-between (he’s even hand-painted a few shirts), Tony is able to use his know-how and natural good taste to create one-of-a-kind garments that you’ll wear for a lifetime.
What to buy:
- Black Duck Barn Jacket: $725
- Bespoke Shirting: By consultation
