Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

Creating a clothing brand from scratch is no easy feat—especially when sourcing and manufacturing in the U.S. In this episode, we sit down with Brian Patrick from Union Overall Co. to talk about his journey in building a brand rooted in American craftsmanship. From navigating the complexities of sourcing materials to fostering a strong creative vision, Brian shares insights on entrepreneurship, storytelling, and the power of community in the fashion industry.

photo: Courtesy of Union Overall Co.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The challenges of sourcing American-made materials and manufacturing.
• The history of Union Overall and its relation to a Sears brand.
• Seeing community in action when small businesses came together to help Opie Way in Asheville, NC after Hurricane Helene.

Takeaways:

• Persistence and research are crucial when starting a niche business.
• A strong creative vision helps set a brand apart.
• Community and shared knowledge, not gatekeeping, are key to growing an independent brand.

Links:

• Union Overall Co. – founded in 1901, is now reborn just blocks away from where its story began in Norfolk, Virginia. Union quality, small batch, Made in USA.
• Union Overall Co. Instagram – Clothing & goods, made in house. Zero waste. Curated vintage
• Black Bear Brand – An International menswear brand based in the USA. Black Bear is a journey of designing and creating items that are
• The Stronghold – We use the finest Japanese selvage denim to create our jeans. LA’s Oldest denim brand since 1895.
• Shockoe Atelier – meticulously crafted denim and related apparel in our Richmond VA workshop. Founded in 2012.
• Cee Blues – Made in USA Casual vintage clothing and eclectic smalls.
• Clauss Studios & Manufacturing – ​All products are made by us here in the USA! Making Classic Motorcycle parts affordable Since 1991!
• North End Bag Co – in Virginia Beach produces handmade bags and aprons using the highest quality leather and canvas.
• Werther Leather Goods – Family-owned business in Norfolk, VA making heirloom quality leather goods: minimalist wallets, belts “made while you wait”, tool-bag-inspired canvas & leather bags.
• Mister Freedom – Boutique offering a variety of vintage clothing for men & women plus shoes, books & rare textiles.
• Raleigh Denim
• Opie Way – brand focused on quality leather shoes made in USA. Crafting shoes and leather goods in our factory in Asheville, NC.
• Ship John – Made in USA Clothing and Accessories. Waxed Canvas, Denim and leather goods.
• Southland
• Go Fast Campers – The worlds lightest and most offroad worthy Wedge Camper, Topper & Rooftop Tent! Made in America and built for adventure.
• Proximity Manufacturing Company – White Oak Legacy Foundation, Inc. established Proximity Manufacturing Company in 2021 as a for-profit subsidiary that will operate as a textile manufacturing arm of the non-profit organization. First opened in 1905 in NE Greensboro.
• Hudson Hill – When Greensboro’s historic denim mills closed, a vital part of American manufacturing seemed lost. Hudson’s Hill was founded to restore and preserve that legacy by focusing on high-quality, Made-in-USA goods that tell a story of craftsmanship and heritage.
• Mount Vernon Mills – Diversified and integrated manufacturer of textile, chemical, and related products for the apparel, healthcare, industrial, institutional, and commercial markets. 
• Crafted With Pride: A Directory of Made in USA Gear – Discover local wonders with the newest edition. The ultimate sourcebook of thoughtfully produced, quality gear made right in your neighborhood.