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Top 5 Best brands in vintage clothing
by Jonas Elbæk on Jul 16, 2024
Vintage clothing has surged in popularity over the past decade, with fashion enthusiasts and sustainability advocates alike flocking to thrift stores and online marketplaces in search of timeless pieces with a rich history and great craftsmanship. Among the many brands that have stood the test of time through decades, five names consistently rise to the top: Nike, Champion, Adidas, Jerzees, and Gildan. These brands have not only left a mark on the fashion industry but have also become staples in the vintage clothing scene. The most popular vintage clothing pieces we from these brands see are from the 90’s and early 2000's. A little trivia for you, clothing has to be at least 20 years old to be considered vintage clothing. Let's dive in and take a closer look at what makes each of these brands a must-have for vintage aficionados.
1. Nike: The one to rule them all
Nike, the globally renowned athletic brand, has been a powerhouse in the fashion world since its inception in 1964. Known for its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, Nike's vintage pieces are highly coveted. From classic sweaters and iconic hoodies to logo tees and bags, Nike's vintage apparel offers a unique blend of sporty aesthetics and timeless style with great quality and exciting clothing innovation that made the ground for what we have today.
Why Vintage Nike?
- Iconic Logos and Slogans: The "Just Do It" slogan and the unmistakable Nike swoosh logo, probably one of the most iconic and best looking logos of all time..
- Quality and Durability: Nike's commitment to quality ensures that vintage pieces remain in great condition even after decades. The materials and craftsmanship was on another level back in the 80s, 90’s and early 2000’s.
- Cultural Impact: Worn by athletes and celebrities around the globe and a huge impact in hip-hop and sports legends like Michael Jordan, vintage Nike pieces are a symbol of the mix of athletic and streetwear style.
We are always on the lookout for vintage Nike clothing, see our curated collection here.
2. Champion: The original sportswear brand
Champion, with its roots dating back to 1919, has been a pioneer in sportswear for over a century. The brand's vintage sweatshirts, hoodies, and track suits are beloved for their mix of classic designs and comfort. Champion's iconic "C" logo has become synonymous with retro fashion, making their vintage pieces highly sought after. In the USA, universities have long relied on Champion sweatshirts as the ideal blank canvas for their school logos, often with embroidery. This partnership blends Champion's quality and durability with collegiate pride, resulting in iconic sweatshirts that are both comfortable and emblematic of school spirit. These customized pieces have become staples in the world of vintage and some are really sought after. An example of this could be this Champion ASU sweater from the University at Albany, New York, USA.
Why Vintage Champion?
- Classic Silhouettes: The reverse weave hoodies and crewnecks are timeless pieces with a wide variety of prints and embroideries.
- Heritage and Authenticity: Champion's long and rich history in sportswear lends an air of authenticity to its vintage items, that are known through the industry.
- Comfort and Fit: Known for their exceptional comfort, Champion's vintage clothing is perfect for casual, everyday wear.
3. Adidas: Timeless German engineering
Adidas, founded in Germany in 1949, has become a global leader in both sports and fashion. Vintage Adidas apparel, characterized by the iconic three stripes and trefoil logo, is a staple for vintage lovers. From t-shirts to sweatshirts, Adidas pieces offer a blend of sporty style and innovative engineering in clothing. The brand's timeless designs and exceptional quality make vintage Adidas a must-have for any vintage fashion enthusiast. Whether you're looking for classic pieces with the three stripes, retro tees, or stylish sweatshirts, Adidas offers a wide range of options that seamlessly combine functionality with a fashionable edge. Alongside Nike, Adidas is one of the most easily recognizable brands in vintage fashion, embodying a rich history and cultural significance that continues to influence modern trends.
Why Vintage Adidas?
- Distinctive Design: The three stripes and trefoil logo are instantly recognizable and exude a retro vibe.
- Versatility: Vintage Adidas pieces can be effortlessly styled for both athletic and casual looks.
- Cultural Significance: Associated with hip-hop culture and sports legends, Adidas has a rich cultural history that adds value to its vintage items.
4. Jerzees: Classic American apparel
Jerzees, known for its high-quality basics, has been a staple in American wardrobes since the early 1980s. Specializing in sweatshirts, t-shirts, and athletic wear, Jerzees' vintage pieces are appreciated for their simplicity and durability. Jerzees are the go to blank hoodies and crewnecks for companies around the globe, they are used for all sorts of prints, everything from universities, cities, companies, events and much more. They were used a lot in the 90’s and early 2000’s, an example could be this Fairfax High School Hoodie from the early 2000's.
Why Vintage Jerzees?
- Timeless Basics: Jerzees' classic tees and sweatshirts are wardrobe essentials that never go out of style - everything from basics to exciting prints.
- Affordability: Vintage Jerzees items are often more affordable than other brands, making them accessible to a wider audience.
- Customization Potential: The simplicity of Jerzees pieces makes them ideal for companies, schools and more to put their print and logo on. That’s why you will find a wide variety of prints on Jerzees blanks, making them popular among the vintage field.
5. Gildan: Affordable quality
Gildan, founded in 1984, is known for its affordable, high-quality basics. The brand's vintage pieces, including t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts, are popular for their reliability, comfort and endless possibilities for prints. Gildan's commitment to producing durable, comfortable clothing has made it a favorite among those seeking quality vintage items with prints from companies all around the world. Gildan is another brand that is a stable for blanks, used by hundreds of companies around the world to express their creativity, logo and slogans. An example of this could be this black cotton vintage Gildan Heavy Blend 2000's hoodie with orange Salem Massachusetts, USA “Witch City” print on the front, that they used as souvenirs in Massachusetts in the early 2000’s.
Why Vintage Gildan?
- Reliable Quality: Gildan's commitment to quality ensures that their vintage pieces remain in good condition even after decades.
- Budget-Friendly: Vintage Gildan items offer great value, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers that still want a great vintage piece.
- Versatility: Simple and understated, Gildan's vintage clothing can be easily incorporated into any outfit with their endless amounts of colors and prints.
Embrace the vintage revival
The allure of vintage clothing lies in its unique blend of history, style, and sustainability. Whether you're drawn to the athletic elegance of Nike, the timeless comfort of Champion, the distinctive design of Adidas, the classic simplicity of Jerzees, or the affordable quality of Gildan, there's something for everyone in the world of vintage fashion. Embrace the past and add a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe with these iconic brands. This is our first top 5 vintage brand list, when we add new and exciting brands we will make updates to the list, maybe someone can steal vintage Nike’s #1 place. Stay tuned and follow our blog for new and interesting blog posts about the world of vintage clothing.
