Let's be honest, in the grand scheme of things, what kind of jacket you're wearing probably doesn't mean anything. But try telling that to someone in the Midwest who sees you rocking a Carhartt WIP chore coat and immediately assumes you're a poser who's never seen a shovel. If you've ever found yourself explaining that, no, you actually do understand what manual labor is, despite your "fashion" Carhartt, then this one's for you. Because apparently, the world needs a deep dive into two brands that share a name but not necessarily a vibe.
The OG: Carhartt, The Blue-Collar Uniform
So, you've got your classic Carhartt. Founded in Detroit in 1889 by Hamilton Carhartt, this brand was literally built for the hardworking individual. Think farmers, construction workers, folks who actually need durable gear that can withstand being dragged through mud, grease, and questionable barnyard situations. It's about "honest value for an honest dollar," and their stuff is designed to be high-quality, super durable, and reliable in the worst conditions. Hamilton Carhartt himself was all about giving "a square deal" to everyone, whether they worked for him or bought from him. Basically, it's the uniform of anyone who knows the true meaning of a "hard-earned dollar" because they've actually earned it. And if you're like me, living in a place where blue-collar is practically a religion, you've heard the comments. "Oh, a Carhartt jacket, huh? You gonna go, uh, type in that?" Hilarious. Because apparently, the only valid reason to wear something durable is if you're actively wrestling a tractor. The pride some folks attach to this original workwear identity is almost adorable, if not slightly annoying.
The Younger Sibling: Carhartt WIP, For When You Just Want to Look Cool
Now, fast forward about a hundred years. While the original Carhartt was busy outfitting America's workforce, a different idea was brewing across the pond. Enter Carhartt Work In Progress, or WIP, founded by Edwin Faeh in 1994. He started by distributing original Carhartt products in Europe, then got the brilliant idea to modify them for a European audience. The result? A line that keeps the quality and durability of the original but injects a "European twist" with refined designs and a more fashion-forward approach.
This is where your farmer uncle's brain might just short-circuit. Carhartt WIP isn't about working on the farm; it's about looking like you could work on the farm, but probably won't. It's streetwear, with "edgier styles & slimmer fits," always following the latest trends and collaborating with other brands. And yes, it's more expensive. Why? Because it's a fashion brand, not just a practical workwear brand. Different purposes, different demographics, different price points. Mind blown, right?
The best part? Some of the items might look similar, but the fit, material, style, and even the logo are different. So, while you're strutting around in your perfectly tailored WIP jacket, some dude in a beat-up original Carhartt might be silently judging your life choices. And honestly, who cares?
So, What's the Big Deal?
Ultimately, the core of this "debate" is pretty silly. One brand was built for function, the other for fashion. Both have their merits. Both offer quality and durability. One just happens to be a status symbol in certain circles, while the other is a literal tool for many.
The whole "do you even do hard labor?" commentary just highlights how obsessed we are with categorizing everything. Can't a jacket just be a jacket? Does it always have to mean something profound about your work ethic or your social standing? Nah. It just means you bought a piece of clothing you liked. Whether it's to haul hay or to look good while grabbing a latte, in the grand scheme of the universe, it really doesn't mean anything. So wear what you want, and let the gatekeepers stew in their durable, no-nonsense feelings.