Carhartt

CARHARTT

Quick history

Carhartt was founded in 1889 in Detroit as a workwear brand making tough clothing for railroad workers and laborers. Built for durability, its jackets, overalls, and pants became staples for people who needed clothes that could actually take a beating. In the 1990s and 2000s, Carhartt was adopted by skate, hip-hop, and DIY scenes, turning functional workwear into street style. That crossover helped make rugged, practical clothing part of everyday fashion and creative self-expression around the world.


Why it mattered

  • It proved that functional workwear could become cultural style

  • It bridged blue-collar labor and street, skate, and music scenes


Why it shows up at Diversity

  • Carhartt pieces are endlessly remixed in queer, punk, and DIY fashion

  • Resale keeps durable garments in use instead of being thrown away