The Impact of Your Clothes: Exploring Economical Choices of Buying American Made

Nov 5

4 min read

Have you ever considered the origin of your clothing and the economic implications associated with it?

American Made. Made in USA. Made in USA List.

Typically, the perception when discussing products labeled as 'Made in America' is that they are too costly. In most cases, this holds true. However, there are some notable exceptions like Okabashi, a sandal brand based in Buford, GA, that sells sandals for less than $30 (around $24.99), and Dearborn Denim from Chicago, which offers a variety of denim fits with customizable inseam options for under $100.

Gustin is another valued company that initially started by offering jeans through crowdsourcing, ensuring they only acquire enough fabric based on customer orders, known as "True Wholesale." Today, they are a reliable supplier of distinctive fabrics, denim, and limited-run clothing at wholesale prices. Despite potential delays, the value provided by Gustin is outstanding. Keep in mind, they now provide a stock section for customers who prefer not to wait.

Nevertheless, the belief that products made in America are more expensive is usually accurate, and I have strongly defended this notion on numerous occasions.

It wasn't always like this. Prior to the 1980s, the majority of clothing in America was produced domestically. However, following the ratification of the NAFTA agreement in 1994, it is now estimated that only 2-3% of clothing (merely 1% of footwear and eyewear) is manufactured in the United States.

The "Boots" Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness: A Lesson in the Value of Quality Purchases

During my research to find more convincing reasons to support purchasing products from local suppliers, I stumbled upon a relatable passage from Terry Pratchett's 1993 novel 'Men at Arms':

“Take boots, for example. He earned $38 a month plus allowances. A really good pair of leather boots cost $50. But an affordable pair of boots, which were sort of OK for a season or two and then leaked like hell when the cardboard gave out, cost about $10.”

“But the thing was that good boots lasted for years and years. A man who could afford $50 had a pair of boots that'd still be keeping his feet dry in 10 years' time, while the poor man who could only afford cheap boots would have spent a hundred dollars on boots in the same time and would still have wet feet.”

While it comes from a fictional book, this passage accurately portrays the very real life dilemma of how being poor can be more expensive and how spending more up front ensures less is spent over time. This is referred to as the “boots” theory of socioeconomic unfairness.

This was eye-opening for me and has been a useful talking point ever since. After all, the reason for my ‘made in USA’ journey was partially due to me finding so much clothing from my late-father. Wearing his clothes not only brought sentimental value and a sense of closeness to him, but also linked me to a bygone era. That experience highlighted the significance of heritage clothing and the worth behind every purchase. It goes beyond fashion and trends like vintage or up cycling, holding a deeper meaning for me. So, coming to the realization that paying more initially actually can save you money in the long run was an unexpected but welcomed surprise.

Empowering Global Citizens: Reducing Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion

This perspective is not limited to patriotism. It transcends borders and can be adopted by individuals worldwide. Each of us has a role to play in reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion by conducting thorough research on the products we intend to buy. Factors such as the manufacturing process, materials, safety standards, fair wages, and equipment maintenance should all be taken into account before making a purchase. In a society where the allure of inexpensive clothing is strong, it becomes more of an obligation – an obligation to our society and our planet. It involves leveraging our spending power to influence a more conscientious market through economic choices.

“When a product is made in the USA, it’s traveling distance from the manufacturer to the store for purchase is significantly less than a product made in China, which could easily be three times the distance. This means less fuel use, and by extension, fewer emissions released into the air to get to its final destination.” - COMUNITYmade

This is where we are seeing companies with great ethos thrive among the 2-3% who are still manufacturing here in the United States:

“Buy less, Buy better. Wear more, Wash less.”

These are statements you will see and hear in the slow fashion community.

“Make Things Better, Make Better Things” - American Giant

“Slow is Fast” - Studebaker Metals

Ultimately, after all this, it probably doesn’t change the amount of money you have. At times, it can feel like you are in between a rock and hard place when it comes to making ethically and financially conscious purchase. I completely understand and relate with that. I have had to take advantage of many resources, outlets, and SALES to obtain many of the products/garments I own. So many sales!

I wrote an article specifically about sales and acquiring heirloom quality products through deals, discounts etc.

(You can read that HERE)

I am linking some similar articles and sources below:

The History of American-Made Clothing - GoodWear

The Ecological Impact of Buying American-Made Products - COMUNITYmade

Climate Town: ‘Fast Fashion is Hot Garbage’ - YouTube

Why Made in USA is Better for the Environment - Authenticity50

Understanding the 'Boots Theory' of socioeconomic unfairness - Moneywise

The Importance of Buying Made in America Products - Fluoramics

Goodwear has some great write-ups by Peter Liquori, son of the founder and now Goodwear Brand Manager - be sure to read them.

Books & Similar Reading:

‘American Flannel’ by Steven Kurutz