6 American Menswear Clothing Brands You Should Know

by Beau Hayhoe  |  in Smart Casual

If a T-shirt, why does it matter where it’s made? Well, my fellow Effortless Gent readers, it actually matters more now than ever.

Where your clothes and accessories are made can have plenty of ramifications for your wardrobe, to say the least. And that’s why today, we’re telling you all about the best American clothing brands your money can buy.

American manufacturing has weathered some ups and downs in recent years.

But the brands that are committed to making either all or part of their company’s stylish products here (from colorful socks to rich leather goods and timeless shirts) are doing it in the States for a reason.

Stylish All American Clothing: Menswear made here in the USA

American manufacturing often produces higher quality goods with a much greater attention to detail. That means a longer return on your investment.

Plus, if you’re American and / or living in the US, you’re voting with your dollars and supporting US manufacturing.

The brands highlighted below are doing things the old-fashioned way. Seeing as we’re all about investing for the long haul here at Effortless Gent, that’s to be applauded.

The best American-made clothing brands offer something for everyone, at a range of price points.

From your new favorite watch to an everyday wallet you’ll always carry with you, I’m certain you’ll find at least an item or two to add to your Lean Wardrobe from these noteworthy brands.

American Trench

american trench effortless gent

It’s refreshing to see a brand like American Trench keep churning out newer, better styles beyond what it was originally known for — a heck of a stylish trench coat and its trademark socks, both made with high-quality materials at two U.S.-based, family-owned mills.

Nowadays, the Philadelphia-based company partners with brands like Epaulet on vests, military jackets, knit caps, and toasty socks. It’s a one-stop shop for some of the best basics around.

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Billykirk

billykirk effortless gent

Serious quality, serious attention to detail, and seriously rugged appeal — that’s what you get with leather accessories and fine leather goods from Billykirk. The brand seems to be that rare leather goods maker that expertly toes the line between rugged and refined.

From handsome valet trays (for you) to beautiful peanut suede crossbody bags (for your significant other?), there’s something for everyone — and it’s all done the right way.

That’s because the brand has been around nearly 20 years — that’s nearly two decades of uncompromising, American-made quality. Our favorite piece might be the subtly stylish No. 109 Skinny Leather Belt — wear it every day.

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Dufrane Watches

Think you need to look abroad to pick up your next favorite watch? Well … think again.

DuFrane Watches is among a very small (but growing) crop of brands assembling watches in the U.S. This Austin-based brand goes so far as to source materials for its handsome, rugged leather watches right in Texas.

The brand’s watches are investment-level (the Bergstrom Premium Watch will run you nearly a grand), but they’re rich in quality and deliver style in spades.

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Knickerbocker Mfg. Co.

knickerbocker mfg co effortless gent

Wander into the right shop in Brooklyn and you just might find some of the best men’s T-shirts, henleys and crewneck sweatshirts on display — all made not that far away, either. Those fine knits are likely from NYC’s own Knickerbocker Mfg. Co., a brand that’s made it cool to produce great menswear in America.

Their efforts started in 2012 with the purchase of an old factory in Brooklyn, and it’s only grown since then. There’s no arguing against the results — the brand’s crisply cut, old-school henleys and tees are worth the price.

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The Hill-Side

the hill-side effortless gent

It’s surprising how brands can start with with simple ideas, such as commitment to beautiful fabric (like cotton denim) and rich color (like indigo dye). That’s where The Hill-Side (launched in Brooklyn) starts.

Founded in 2009 by brothers Sandy and Emil Corsillo and named one of GQ’s Best New Menswear Designers in America back in 2015, The Hill-Side began as an accessories brand.

At the time, it was located inside the duo’s fantastic Brooklyn shop Hickoree’s before transitioning into its own full-fledged brand.

It’s been an impressive expansion with a focus on making stylish gear right in the States. We love pieces like the classic Coupe Indigo Shirt in a neat flannel check. It’s an excellent addition to your Lean Wardrobe and a shirt that can be worn with everything from slim chinos and chukka boots to faded denim.

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Tanner Goods

tanner goods effortless gent

If ever you get the chance to visit Tanner Goods’ handsomely appointed shop in Portland, by all means … please do.

It’s packed with absurdly well-made leather goods and accessories, from the brand’s classic Standard Belts — available in plenty of shades to match your favorite dress shoes — to neat home goods like the Tanner Goods Record Rack.

These are the type of considered lifestyle and gear pieces that can make a guy’s life better. And they’re made right here in the States, to boot.

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