But right at the front of the main building, there was a bright yellow sign that said Roy Roger's x Dave's New York with a coffee bar and a display of clothes that mixes history and workwear. And that's where we stood, meeting people from all over the world (and all over the industry) and spoke about our 2nd collab collection with the Italian denim brand Roy Roger's.
While most brands didn't release collabs at Pitti, and most brands didn't present workwear, we realized that what we were doing was exactly what Pitti was all about - bringing heritage (2 multi-generation family brands), innovation (workwear done in a new and interesting way), and style (jacquard, tie-dye, herringbone) together.
The feedback we got from our latest collection was resoundingly positive! Many people saw the value in the elevated work jackets, pants, and shirts we presented. The prints were subtle but had character. The colors of the collection compliment each other for mixing-and-matching with ease. We learned that some people were not interested in workwear, and that's fine with us.
But we also learned that when Roy Roger's, who's the first Italian denim brand with over 70 years of history, and Dave's, with over 60 years of work wear experience, come together, then something special can happen. We can't wait to release this latest iteration of our collab and show everyone what we have been working on!
However, Fall '24 can't happen before Spring, so we are really excited to launch the Spring '24 collection in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more details and the upcoming release!
Adam
Dave's New York
Early this year (January and February) we had a few of our customers who took the FriDave’s thing seriously and to the furthest parts of the world! One friend of ours proudly wore his Dave’s New York beanie while on an expedition to Antarctica and helped us put a pin on our map in a place that we would have never thought possible! Another friend brought his Dave’s tee all over Japan to places that we hope to visit ourselves one day.
In March we launched the first full run of our Foundation Pants! We had tested the Navy back in October 2022, but this March we introduced two new colors to the line, Olive and Black, in addition to restocking the Navy. The Foundation Pants are such a source of pride for us with members of the team working to get the fabric, fit, and details right. We’re overjoyed with the response that we’ve gotten from people who are now back to buy their 2nd and 3rd pairs! We can’t thank everyone enough for how good it feels to hear people talk about the Foundation pants and use terms like “quality, fit, design, aesthetic, function, durability” and many more. We will continue to work to improve on the pants and offer them in more sizes and colors (coming soon!).
April was a milestone month for us. On April 11th Dave’s New York turned 60 years old. I wrote a blogpost about how it felt to have celebrated 60 years, that my brothers and I have been working in the family business for over 20 years, that our parents have been a part of it for over 50 years, and imagining what it was like for our grandfather to open the store 60 years ago. A lot of businesses do not make it this long, and we are proud, thankful, and dedicated to trying to make it last another 60 years! Thanks to everyone who shared their kind thoughts and well-wishes when we posted about it. We could not have gotten here without the love and support of our friends, neighbors, and loyal customers from all over the globe!
May saw the release of something that we called the Dave’s Alt-Camo logo tee. This was a special launch because the logo on the back of the tee was our DNY iconic logo filled with an alternative camo style print that was designed in-house Dave’s youngest grandson…Dave! It is special when something creative can come from someone who cares so much about the business.
June was also a really incredible month because Dave’s made an appearance at Pitti Uomo in Florence, an international men’s fashion trade show. We officially debuted a collab with Roy Roger’s, a heritage family workwear brand from Italy whose roots in denim and workwear are older than ours! Being a 3rd generation family business and meeting another 3rd generation business like Roy Roger’s made working together so easy. We both share a love for workwear and heritage that we put into a line that will be released this coming Spring. We can’t wait to share more details about it with you.
As the calendar turned towards September, we released a collab with the great people over at HIGHSNOBIETY. Having known some of the team for over 10 years, it was great that this project came together and was released at the HIGHSNOBIETY pop-up for NYC Men’s Fashion Week. It was fun to create products and designs that added some HighSnob style to Dave’s classics, and the iconic NYC Sanitation Truck tee was a hit! We hope that this is the start of future projects as well.
October had its own special project - and one that was amazingly designed by Henbo Henning. This was our 2nd project with Henbo and he designed an NYC cityscape featuring some iconic characters like King Kong, a Rat, Pigeon, Bagel and classic city staples like the subway, pizza, and water towers on rooftops. We were so excited to see this launch and the response from people who know Henbo was unreal. It was also great to see how many people who did not know Henbo just took to his design and really liked how uniquely NY it was.
Lastly (but certainly not least) in December we launched our Foundation Vest. The vest was a months-long process of design, trial, and error, but when it launched, it was a moment of pride for the team who tried to get every detail right. The vest has been a great addition to the Foundation collection. It is our first piece of outerwear designed in house, but it won't be the last!
And while we highlighted a lot of the events that happened, there is a huge list of people that we can't thank enough for their support. From the friendly faces that stop by and say hi to the new relationships created, it makes it all worthwhile.
We can't wait to see what 2024 will bring, and we are really excited to share some big updates too! Have a safe, happy, and healthy New Year. See you soon!
Adam, Dave's New York
]]>We're excited to add another piece to the Dave's New York Foundation collection: the Foundation Vest!
Just like our Foundation Pants, this vest is the result of a lot of brainstorming and drawing on our experience with work wear. Made with the same rugged 12-ounce cotton canvas as our Foundation Pants, this vest is tough, durable, and functional. But we also wanted it to look good, feel good, and last - regardless of what you do with it.
We always knew we wanted the same American-made canvas to match our pants, but it was all new design from there. We used a locally-sourced nylon quilted lining, as well as a custom cut rib knit collar. The lining holds in the warmth while not being bulky, making the vest a great piece to wear on top of a hoodie or under another layer. The rib knit collar is meant to hug the back of your neck to keep out the cold, but not be so high up in the front that you feel like it's choking you.
Then we turned our attention to the front of the vest. The zipper is such an important feature. It has to be heavy duty, but not so heavy that it's difficult to zip. The pull tab has to be large enough to grab with gloves, but not so big that it sticks out or flops around. The teeth have to be tough, but not so rough that it feels sharp to the touch. In essence, the zippers took a while to get exactly right. So we decided to use a heavy duty YKK zipper since their zippers are some of the best and can ensure quality.
The front pockets were also a challenge, and while they seem plain and simple, we put several versions on samples. Pockets have to be deep enough to hold things, but not so deep or big that you can't get stuff out. They have to be big enough for your entire hands, but if you make them too big, then it's not a natural movement to put your hands in; the pockets get set too far apart and it's awkward. Also most brands put the same nylon quilted lining in the front pockets, but in the winter the nylon gets cold, so we lined the front pockets with fleece for both comfort and warmth. We used a tighter knit fleece that is durable to stand the test of time.
We also have an inside security pocket that is pretty unique. Designed by our team, it features an angled opening with a square bottom and hook-and-loop closure (think Velcro). The design is ergonomic and makes it easy to get things out of, while the closure helps keep things in. No one wants to drop their phone, keys, or other valuables when they bend over. So we wanted to make sure that this interior pocket passed that test.
We are calling the fit of the vest “Original Fit.” And that means it's a workwear garment and isn't cut too trim. But we did give it enough room to wear with a sweatshirt underneath. We also made it a little longer than some comparable vests out there because a common complaint we hear is how short the vests are in the front. You don't have to size up or down from your regular size, but you can go up a size if you're trying to go for an oversized look. The vest comes in sizes from Small through 3XL.
Lastly, we are partnering with the same people to cut the fabric here in NYC. The Garment District in New York is still the best place to find people incredibly skilled in their craft. Once cut, the vests are sewn by a 3rd generation family business in New Jersey. One of the great things about being a small business is that we get to work with other small businesses to help each other thrive. Building these relationships in manufacturing has been greatly rewarding. This is why we are so proud to say that it is built in the USA.
When we launched our first Foundation Pants late last year, we were very unsure how they would be received. But the positive feedback from you all really gave us the confidence to keep going. We designed the vest to go with the pants, so it's available in Olive, Black and Navy.
We hope you'll check out the vest (and the pants too!) And please let us know what you think. We always strive to make a product that is of good quality, looks great, and lasts.
Henbo has been a customer of Dave's for years, and in a conversation he had with my brother a few years ago, he said something that really stuck with us: while he does tattoo a lot of people, his real passion is art. The medium he uses can change, sometimes it's canvas, sometimes it's on a person, and with us it has been on t-shirts. He has always been true to his style and has gained quite the following from people who share his love for a different take on classics.
If you remember two years ago, we did an in-store event where we screen printed some tees that were designed by Henbo. It was a large back print that featured some New York City icons: Rat, Pigeon, Bagel and King Kong himself, but done in a way that Henbo does best. We only did the event for one day and it was a blast. Here are a few of our favorite pics from that day:
A big difference with these new collab is that we will have the items in the store for sale, and they will also be available online. With our updated website we can now ship the products globally! So if you can't make it into the store, we still got you covered.
Like a lot of Henbo's designs, this new collab has a lot of elements that carry over, but some new ones too. The silhouette is our DNY iconic logo, with some local elements. A bit of the skyline and the bridges find their way into the design. Unique, yet classically New York, this take on the city reminds us how amazing it really is. Also, our favorite NYC icons make their way back through the design, so we are pulling elements of our first collab to continue the story. However, there is one new feature that we have to point out. The image on the right is based on our grandfather and one of the few pictures we have of him.
Since this is a Fall drop, we put the design on the back of the ultra cotton long sleeve t-shirt and a hoodie. The tee is the same 6-ounce cotton tee that we use for our work logo tees. It's a regular fit and it comes in navy and natural. The hoodie is our favorite sweatshirt. It's a 12.5-ounce, cotton face hoodie in a relaxed fit. It has room to move without being over sized. The rib knit cuffs and waistband hold their shape even after a ton of washes and wears.
And when you do go to wash your tee or hoodie, make sure you do so inside out and in cold water with a mild detergent to keep it in great shape for a long time. Try not to dry it too much in a hot dryer. We want this to last for you as long as possible, the collab will only be out for a limited time and won't be restocked.
We believe that doing a collab is more than just two people coming together; it's the opportunity to work with people you care about to create something special and different. We're proud to work with Henbo, not just for the art he creates, but the person he is. When you care about your craft, when you care about your customers, and you work with integrity, then something great can come out of it. Because it does not matter what you do, it matters how you do it; that is why we work hard every day.
We hope you love the Collab as much as we do!
Shop the DAVE'S X HENBO COLLAB COLLECTION
]]>Roy Roger’s, the first Italian jeans brand, is pleased to announce a collaboration with Dave’s New York, a premiere American workwear store that has been setting the trend and style of new generations for 60 years. Twenty-five workwear and workwear-inspired garments have been designed for a complete look with genderless taste. This collection perfectly captures the true essence and heritage of the two brands together.
“We have had collaborations with other brands for some time. What is essential for us is a natural affinity with the partner,” says Guido Biondi, Roy Roger’s Creative Director. “Dave’s is the American flag of workwear in New York, and Roy Roger’s was born as a workwear brand. But it is not the only point in common between the two brands: in fact, we share the heritage and know-how in the sector, characteristics that distinguish our product. What emerges from this collaboration could be called “vintage of the future,” a tradition that fits perfectly with the street and urban world of the city. Deciding to explore the American market, focusing on streetwear designed with an authentic style, is a very important step for us.”
"Our grandfather had a very simple outlook when he started our business: do things the right way and provide customers with value in everything that you do," says Adam Levy, the owner of Dave's New York. "When we learned that Roy Roger's was a 3rd generation family business like us, and that they believe in the quality of their work like we believe in ours, it made it really easy for this collab to come to life. Guido and his team have really gone back to their roots with this collaboration and we are happy to contribute our perspective on timeless workwear classics. In our eyes we are not just building a product, but building a relationship with the family at Roy Roger's."
Roy Roger’s x Dave’s New York is therefore composed of iconic workwear items. The work pant comes in denim, canvas, and in unique jacquard and tie-dye versions. Work jackets are offered with a more classic cut made of indigo denim and in a cropped version in stone-washed, jacquard, tobacco, and tie-dye denim. The look is completed by a series of t-shirts with vintage prints from the Roy Roger’s and Dave’s New York archives originating in the 1960s, and cotton crewneck sweatshirts presented in various colors and a tie-dye version.
ABOUT ROY ROGER’S
Roy Roger’s is the first American-style denim designed and made in Italy. The brand is known for being eclectic, functional, versatile, resistant, practical, and durable.
Over 70 years ago, the American dream arrived in Italy with Roy Roger’s. In 1952, young Francesco, the founder of the brand, entered into a partnership with Cone Mills Corporation of New York, one of the largest suppliers of denim made in the USA.
Today, the strength of the Roy Roger’s brand is the result of a constant search for top quality materials and ongoing experimentation with innovative washes, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. But most importantly, most of its success comes from the ability to rework historical models to conceive new ways of wearing and experiencing blue jeans.
ABOUT DAVE’S NEW YORK
Dave’s New York is a third-generation family business located in New York City. After serving in the US Army and working as a retail store manager, the family’s grandfather, Dave Levy, opened Dave’s Army & Navy in Manhattan’s Garment District in 1963. There, he sold new and used military surplus, focusing on clothing, jackets, footwear, and gear.
In the late 1960s, local garment factory workers were Dave’s most loyal customers. So in addition to the military surplus items, he began carrying durable and functional work clothes to serve this group. By the 1970s, the store was full of canvas and denim to appeal to the construction workers who were redeveloping Manhattan.
Now in the care of the second and third generations, Dave’s New York has become synonymous with workwear and jeans in New York City. Dave’s focus is on providing exceptional customer service, high-quality and functional products, and value to all of its customers. In 2022, Dave’s New York was recognized as one of “The 100 Best Clothing Stores in the World” by GQ Magazine. The company recently launched the Dave’s New York “Foundation Pant” - a canvas work pant designed utilizing six decades of experience. These pants will serve as the foundation of the Dave’s New York workwear line.
]]>Long Story - Keen is known for their outdoor boots, blending function and durability in a hiker that can cross all terrain. Their work boots bring the same DNA but add much needed grit and functional features. The Kansas City work boot is a great example of this melding. From a functional standpoint these boots feature a full waterproof membrane. They also feature anti-microbial linings, a cushioned footbed, eyelets and speed hooks. The most notable feature are the flex grooves over the forefoot. These grooves help make the boot comfortable from day 1. Tested to withstand tens of thousands of flexes, these grooves mixed with a sneaker-like outsole give you all day comfort.
Keen also made sure to add durability with an abrasion resistant shell. There is a seamless toe cap to protect the top of the boot from shedding. They added a carbon fiber safety toe that protects you to OSHA standards but is also asymmetrical in design for comfort.
Combining all these features in a boot really gives you an option on how and where you can use this model. Built for a multitude of job sites and job functions, the Kansas City is a great choice.
Adam, Dave's New York
]]>As cargo pant sales have been increasing across the board and options of cargo pants have expanded, this staplestyle from Rothco is a go-to. The material is a midweight fabric that blends cotton and polyester to give it a soft hand and increased durability. It is pre-washed to give it a broken-in look. The fact that it comes in solid colors or military camo makes it versatile for a lot of situations.
The pant itself is relaxed fit in the seat and thigh and has a looser leg throughout. The classic military-style ties on the gif give you options on how you cinch, taper, or shorten the leg for different looks. What stands out is the double-cargo pocket on each leg. There are the traditional cargo pockets by the knee, but also lower ones by the ankle that give it a style unique to itself.
Lastly, the waist sizes are adjustable, so you can use the pull-tabs by the hips to adjust the waist depending on if you want a looser or tighter fit. If you are looking for a new set of cargo pants, definitely give these a look.
Adam, Dave's New York
]]>
When it comes to the actual pants, our goal was simple: build a utility pant that is durable, fits well, and has useful features, and whose value can be felt right away. So we started with a quality 12-ounce American-made duck canvas. We then added utility pockets on both legs that fit both tools and tech. We also use triple-stitched seams and bar tacks for reinforcement.
In addition to those more standard features, we also thought it was important to include more details like back pockets that are lined to prevent them from wearing out and angled for more ergonomic use. The single-front model was created for a clean look and the angled double-front model was created for greater durability. Seven belt loops were used to help keep your pants at your waist, and the leg opening was cut to fit over work boots. We use metal buttons and zippers for added strength. Our Original Fit was designed to hit that sweet spot of not too tight and not too loose, giving you room to comfortably work and move.
The name “Foundation Pant” was actually thought of before we even came up with the product because of what it signifies. In the construction world, the foundation of a great building is laid before anything else can be built. A foundation is also an underlying principle, something you truly believe in and stand behind. That is how we feel about these pants.
We are not only proud of how the pant design turned out, but also we are really grateful for the people we worked with on this project. Our fabric was sourced here in the US, as well as the thread, pocketing, labels, and more. The fabric was cut right here in NYC and the pants were sewn together in New Jersey. Each step of the process was done by a small business, just like ours.
We are excited the Foundation Pants are finally here, and we can’t wait to hear what you think about them!
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>Originally from Australia, this brand has been brought to the US and has found a following for several reasons: 1) These pants feature a blend of cotton and technical fibers that offer comfort and durability. 2) FXD pants fit really well compared to traditional canvas workwear. 3) The midweight materials lends itself to several environments. 4) The functional pockets and added nylon reinforcements make this ideal for a multitude of jobs. 5) Lastly, they just look cool.
When you look at the FXD WP-1 (as in Workpant-1), this pant is made of a blend of high tensile cotton canvas and uses nylon reinforcement on the pockets and high stress areas. The 8.2-ounce weight is not too heavy, but beefy enough to withstand the work you put it through. The functional cargo pocket and utility pockets are there to help carry all of your stuff, and the signature Cordura abrasion resistant knee overlays help keep this pair of work pants in great shape, no matter what you do.
We also brought in the FXD WP-3, which complements the original style very well. While it is built with a lot of the same DNA as the WP-1, it offers a few differences. This style of work pants tends to fit a little slimmer than the WP-1 and features a more tapered leg and trimmer leg opening. It helps that these work pants are made with stretch cotton canvas for movement, and an 8.8-ounce fabric weight for durability. You can see that it does not have the same front panels as the WP-1, but it still uses the advanced nylon overlays that reinforce the pockets. To keep with the clean look, the WP-3 uses back welt pockets and slightly lower profile cargo pocket on the left thigh.
You can’t go wrong with either of these styles from FXD, it’s just a matter of what you are looking for in terms of fit or function. Whether it’s the WP-1 featuring its heavier duty features, or the WP-3 featuring its cleaner and more tailored fit, each one has its own benefits and we are happy to have them in our store. The next time you are shopping for work pants, take a look at these two models from FXD, they just may be your next favorite pair.
Shop our new FXD work pant collection.
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>With its higher rise and fuller legs, the 874 is definitely trending right now. And it’s been the choice of guys and girls alike. The common questions people have are: do you stack the cuffs or wear them short? Do you wear the waist high or roll the waistband over? These pants are tighter through the seat and hip and give you more room in the knee and leg for a mix of traditional styling with a current look.
Our team member Abdramane is wearing an 874 in size 34x30. He needed to go up from his jean size of 33x30 due to the higher rise and straighter hips of the 874. You can see that the waistband is almost up to his naval, but the legs give him room in the thigh, knee, and ankle. The wider leg is comfortable, and whether it’s worn for work or for fun, the fit of twill can take you throughout the day and the weekend. The 874 is the #1 twill work pant in the world, and it doesn’t look like any other pant is going to take over that title any time soon.
However, the 873 is gaining some traction. Copying its bigger brother, the 873 features the same 8.75-ounce, 65/35 twill, clasp waist tab, and tunnel belt loop. It shares the same clean look with a patch logo on the back pocket. Where the differences start is with a slightly lower rise on the 873. The 874 sits very high and the 873 sits slightly lower on the waist more similar to standard fit jeans or pants. The shorter rise allows for more give in the seat and thigh, meaning you can get a fit closer to your standard size.
While the cut is still straight and Abdramane still has a bit of a gap in the back of the waist, the fit through the seat, thigh, and leg is more similar to the fit he wears on an everyday basis. So for the 873 he is able to wear his regular size of 33x30. From the knee to the ankle, the leg is not tight so you can have a little bit of room, but you still have a clean finish. This could be an ideal look if you are going for a more tailored look at work or on a night out. The width of the pants at the ankle helps show off more of your footwear, if that is something that you are trying to do.
You may wear different sizes in the waist, and depending on what type of look you are going for with these pants, you may also wear different lengths. You can’t go wrong with either look, but the best thing to do is try them on. You may prefer one over the other…or maybe you’ll want both for different fits!
Which style do you like to wear, 874 or 873?
Shop our Dickies work pant collection
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>First of all, several customers have told us that it is always important to keep a good pair of clean, white pants in your wardrobe. The reason that they chose the Dickies painters pants is that it has the functional utility look with its hammer loop and tool pockets. Also, the relaxed fit of the pants help make it fit a wide array of customers while staying on a trend of more relaxed styling. The kicker is the price: at $30, this work pant is easy on the wallet. And when it is no longer “white” and starts to show signs of wear, then it can be used as a real work pant. Doing the double-duty of style and function is what it’s all about these days.
The second thing that we have heard is that the white painter's pants are the perfect blank canvas for expression. We have several customers who tie-dye these pants to make cool and unique designs, or others who use paint makers (or just paint) to draw and add designs to their pants. Creating a unique looking pant and being able to express yourself through your clothing has become increasingly more important to a lot of customers.
The last thing we have heard is that there is something unassuming about putting on a pair of clean, white, painter’s pants. Unlike denim dungarees or canvas pants that people may jump to the conclusion that you are in a construction job, when you wear these pants no one assumes that you are a painter (though you may be). Having a fresh pair of white work pants is different from white slacks or white jeans. It blends the everyday work pants with a fresh new look and feel.
So whether you plan on keeping them white, using them as a canvas for self-expression, or somewhere in between, these Dickies painters are a go-to!
Shop Dickies Painter Pants and Overalls
And now the white painter style is available in bib overalls too!
We’re on the lookout for more trends and getting this great feedback from our customers is invaluable. We can’t wait to share more with you.
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>Whether it is for work or for fun, wearing the right shirt that is made of moisture-wicking material comes in handy on those hot and sweaty days.
Long Story: Over the course of the last decade, we have seen tons of advancements in manufacturing, materials, and fabrics, and a big term that gets thrown around a lot is moisture-wicking. And there may be some misconceptions about what that means, so we will try to clear it all up for you with the three most common terms you hear about a product:
Any garment that does not absorb moisture can be considered moisture-wicking, so you have to be careful that the product is also breathable. And just because a fabric is breathable, does not mean that it is quick-drying, so you have to find a garment that is made from a good quality fiber that feels light to the touch, soft on the body, and combines the right amount of moisture management to be effective and comfortable.
The products that we feel do a great job of this are the ones that blend cotton and moisture wicking polyesters (like the Carhartt Force tees and the Dickies Temp-iQ tees). The cotton component really makes these shirts feel softer and breathe better. Combined with the polyester fibers, these shirts will also wick moisture away and help dry faster than a classic tee when you are sweating.
If you find yourself outside in the warmer temps this summer (for work or for fun) and you need a go-to shirt to keep you comfortable, then you should seriously consider the fabric and qualities of the tee that you are wearing.
Shop our Moisture-Wicking Workwear collection
Adam, Dave’s New York
PS: Thanks for reading. We will continue to work to give you information that can help you choose the best product for you, so check back for more reviews of brands and products!
]]>Shop Timberland PRO Work Summit and Hypercharge Work Boots
Adam, Dave’s New York
Shop our duck canvas workwear collection
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>Short Story:
Here is a quick list of the increases that we have seen over the last few months:
Each of these factors have left our partners with little choice than to raise their prices to deal with these increases. We receive letters on a regular basis with cost increases from almost all of our brands. Some companies managed their costs and were able to keep increases under 10%. However, there are certain brands that have seen 20-30% cost increases over the last few months. Unfortunately this means that several staple items will start to cost more. Regardless, we will always do our best to provide the best value that we can for the items that we sell.
The Longer Story:
It was not long ago that housing prices were within reach of most Americans. The same can be said for college education and health care. In fact it was about 20 years ago that for under $1 you could purchase a gallon of gas! However, as cost and pricing cycles dictated, those prices did not last. In fact, since that time, costs have accelerated at a pace faster than mass wealth creation causing a debt and health crisis (another topic for another day).
When it comes to apparel, there was a steady state of pricing for the better part of two decades. A pair of jeans (in our store) has seen increases of 2-5% every couple of years, meaning retail prices have gone up from about $35 to $45. Brands had been able to find cheaper places to make clothes (relative to cost of manufacturing in established places). However, as there has been a globalization of manufacturing and the “floor” of pricing had been reached, the cost of the goods being made could only go up. And while this floor had steadily risen, this pandemic has thrown many facets of apparel manufacturing into overdrive. As we cited, the costs of every aspect of the process of apparel creation has gone up. Regardless of material, country of origin, or product category, the average cost increase to us (the retailer) has been almost 20% over the last 12 months. These costs are now manifesting in increased wholesale costs, which is forcing higher pricing across the board. This isn’t isolated to one brand, it’s a story we have heard from every brand that we carry.
My feeling on this increase is that it is not seen as a temporary increase. Like the cost of education, these inflated prices will be the new norm. The pricing that you will see in our store and many other stores is going to be the new standard of pricing for things like jeans, work pants, work boots, and more. While this will lead to lots of conversations that start with “Wow, when did jeans start to cost over 50?” or “Didn’t I buy these for $45 just a few months ago?,” it will be one that we will have to explain over and over again.
However, it is not all doom and gloom! One conversation that we are having at Dave’s is that the increase in pricing of goods due to rising costs helps create a level playing field for items being made in countries that generally have higher costs of living. And while certain clothes may no longer be “cheap,” they will have more value for the money that is being spent for them. Clothes may not be as disposable (better for the environment), and clothing purchases may be made more thoughtfully (less wasteful purchases). People may think more about how and why they spend their money and may gravitate towards items that are of higher quality, items that have longer life-spans, and items that provide function and utility.
There is another conversation that we are having, and that one has to do with being the little guy. This increase in global manufacturing may have a domestic effect that allows US-made products to compete on a more level playing field. While most major brands cannot find the capacity to make clothing here in the US, smaller factories and smaller brands have an opportunity to develop and bring into the market locally-made products that are good or better, and serve the local people who make them too.
While we are not sure what the rest of 2022 will bring, we know that certain things, like costs, will change. And while we lament the end of cheap clothing, we know that there is a silver lining somewhere. We hope that in 2023 we can look back and say that the changing landscape of production has led to some amazing and innovative practices that will help so many more people. We know that this is a challenge that we will face as a result of the pandemic and current environment, but we will always work to find value in what we do and what we sell. We hope to see you soon.
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>These original work pants have one distinctive feature: Carhartt’s chap-style double front with metal rivets that frame the double front (both of which are for added durability). We have seen everyone from carpenters and bricklayers to celebrities and fashionistas wearing the same style pants. Carhartt has built a reputation for creating durable goods, but what we are seeing now is that the fit and look of these pants are what’s attracting a new crowd. These pants feature a higher waist, a looser seat and thigh, and a wider leg opening. Going along with looser fits and relaxed styles, these pants are unique and different from most others out there, and while they function great on the jobsite, they also can do double-duty. But it’s not just about the fit, or the rivets, these pants also serve as a foundation for a lot of streetwear and style.
We have seen people bleach, dye, decorate, taper, deconstruct, and reconstruct these pants in such creative ways. We have customers who tailor these double fronts to create a more tapered leg while maintaining the looser seat and thighs. We have other customers who use bleach to create works of art on the canvas, or screen print their designs right on to the garments. And what we hear from these creators is that Carhartt provides a great base for design and expression. The cotton canvas is heavy duty and can hold the designs, the name has been trending due to its heritage, reputation and value, and the fit is just right for this trend cycle.
We love to see that workwear has more to offer than just function. We love to see that people have these creative ideas on how to take a classic garment and turn it into something new. And we love to see the general population look at Carhartt work pants as more than carpenters’ pants. However, when trends seem to simmer-down, we are proud to carry Carhartt for its roots as a durable and functional work pant.
Shop Carhartt Double Front Work Pants
We get these insights from our customers and we are excited to share these trends with you. Check back for more soon!
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>Currently we have more than 10 different items that we carry in a version of the hickory stripe. We tried to stay true to the original by carrying Dickies men’s overalls and women’s hickory stripe carpenter pants and overalls. Every day we have guys come in asking for hickory stripe pants, so it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. In their own iconic style, Ben Davis does a classic hickory stripe half-zip in their poly cotton twill, but they also do a heavy-weight cotton button down that has been our best-selling shirt this Spring. There is something about the simplicity of the pattern and the way it looks with denim, twill, or canvas that lends itself to a multitude of styles. We have carried the short sleeve half-zip for years, but now we have added hickory stripe items in white with burgundy, black, gray, light blue, and green. In fact, we are looking at expanding our selection even further as more and more people are asking for the stripes.
Carhartt has brought the stripes into their work shirts as well. This Spring we have added the classic cotton chambray shirt in a brown stripe and a blue stripe. While these are not the traditional hickory stripes, they have blended the work shirt with a bit of style to make a product that looks great both on and off the jobsite.
Lastly there is a Levi’s long sleeve hickory stripe shirt that has an instant-classic look and feel. While it is new for this season, the washed cotton and slightly faded look give it a broken-in feel that goes well with your favorite pair of jeans. The blue in this work shirt is slightly lighter and the cotton is midweight, so the shirt feels like it has some structure without being heavy, and can be worn as an everyday style piece.
When we ask our customers what draws them to the hickory stripe style, a lot of them say it’s the classic look and feel. While the style originated around 100 years ago, it has found its way into everyday use today. As workwear has purveyed into every part of life, the addition of colors, stripes, or workwear details have really stood out. We agree that hickory stripes have style, but to combine the pattern with tried-and-true workwear pieces is really where the value lies. A quality garment, made to be durable and functional, with a bit of style; now that is something we see trending all the time.
Shop our Hickory Stripe Collection
Adam, Dave’s New York
Our most popular sizes for relaxed fit used to be around 36-40 inch waist, but we are getting asked for sizes 29-32 inch waist…so regularly that we are adding more inventory as often as we can. For those who want a traditional stonewash or bleach denim, then the 550 is the way to go. They are 100% cotton, heavier (12.5-13 ounce) denim, and sit a bit higher in the waist. These are a style that has been consistent for decades.
We have also brought the Levi’s 559 Relaxed Straight Leg jeans back into our offering. The 559 is relaxed in the seat and thigh, like the 550, but the leg opening is slightly wider and the washes tend to have more fading and wearing. The 559 also differs in that we carry two washes that have stretch and are in a slightly lighter weight denim for everyday comfort. If you are looking for an already broken-in look and feel, then the 559 gives you an option that you don’t have to spend time wearing, washing, and beating up your jeans.
We have always seen a dedicated base of customers who love relaxed fit jeans. Now with an addition of a more fashion-forward customer, these fits are proving to be some of our most popular.
Shop Levi's Relaxed Fit Styles
We will continue to write about updates on style and trends, and try to add a bit of our experience as well. We are looking forward to sharing more with you soon!
Adam, Dave’s New York
]]>They state: “The North Face® fundamental mission remains unchanged since 1966: Provide the best gear for our athletes and the modern day explorer, support the preservation of the outdoors, and inspire a global movement of exploration.”
This couldn’t be more accurate. As we receive new products from The North Face each season, we are always amazed at the technical features that they have incorporated. And we don’t even carry their most high-tech items!
What they are doing to improve their production techniques to benefit the environment is really impressive. The company is working to become the most sustainable clothing company in the world.
Their goal is to never compromise on product quality or performance, but to make sure that production does not harm the environment. From talking to our sales representative, we learned how TNF is committed to using more recycled product, better processes for manufacturing, and only partnering with companies that are as committed to saving the planet as they are.
TNF always stands for the most technical outdoor gear. Their pieces are built to perform in a multitude of environments and activities. But they want to make sure that it doesn't take away from the environment.
All of these incredible attributes are part of what makes The North Face a truly premium brand. It's not just the technical apparel, but the efforts to be sustainable, conscientious, and industry-leading in quality that set them apart from its competitors.
Shop our The North Face collection
]]>Universally Essential: The 874 Work Pant evolved from the original Dickies 100% cotton work pant. During the 1960s the apparel market rushed to integrate a new fabric called polyester into products to increase durability. From this, the 874’s perfect mix of 65/35 poly cotton blend was born, and its durability has been tried and tested by workers and skaters alike for over 50 years.
Shop our Dickies 874 Work Pant collection
]]>Corduroy gets its name from a coarse fabric that was woven in a line pattern and originally made of woollen cloth in England. The texture was tough, durable and meant to be worn in the cold/wet weather. The vertical nature of weaving of the Duroy fabric gave way to the name Corduroy. The extra weight of the fabric and durability of it make it a great choice for Fall.
The space in between each vertical strip of fabric is called a “wale” and the width of the wale is determined by the number of rows that are in an inch of fabric. The most common amounts are 10-12 wale cords. The lower the number, the wider the wale!
The texture in a cord comes from weaving fibers through the base of the fabric that stick out in a ridge. This leads to the textures you feel when holding the pants.
The word "corduroy" does not come from a French background. It's been debunked that it stems from "corde du roi," or cloth of the king. However, you may feel like a king while wearing a pair!
Check out the cords that we have to offer this season.
Adam, Dave’s New York
One of the first pieces sold by Dickies, these authentic and timeless bibs continue to be the go-to style for workers and creators from all walks of life. Dickies Bib Overalls are functional year-round, providing ultimate comfort and functional utility you rely on from Dickies workwear.
The 100% cotton construction first debuted around 1906, making these classic bibs a long long-standing staple of comfort, convenience and durability for American workers- on and off the job. The time-tested construction will stand up to any job, offering practical pocket placement featuring a hammer loop on the left and dual tool pockets on the right, the perfect home for all your necessary tools.
Plus, the sturdy triple-stitch seams keep you worry free as you move about for work or weekend wear. Button side closures and adjustable shoulder straps with classic overall clasps make the Dickies Bib Overalls an enduring and universal fit, both then and now.
As if there was not enough tough news with the ongoing pandemic, there has been a confluence of events that have snowballed into a worldwide increase in costs that have affected every facet of production of clothing. Here are Dave’s, we are doing our best to balance increasing costs of goods and increasing prices. We wanted to shed some light on why things are changing. It boils down to increases in costs of raw materials, manufacturing, transportation, and labor that coincide with a decrease in production capacity, supply, and logistical solutions to create price increases across the board. Even in the face of these changes, we at Dave’s will always work to provide quality products filled with functionality, utility, and durability, and present them at the greatest value to our customers. We hope that we can shed some light as to what is going on in the clothing industry.
Long Story:
First and foremost we are thankful that we can still remain open and operate our business. There are many small businesses that were never able to reopen and many people were left in a very bad situation. But being open has only been half the battle; there have been more ramifications that continue to cause issues that make a “return to normal” seem even further away.
We feel that when a customer walks in the door and is looking for items that we normally stock, we should have it on-hand and ready. However, as supply chains reach every corner of the world, and as disruption has reached every corner of the world, there have been ongoing issues for well over a year.
We wanted to share a bit of what we see so that you know what is going on in the world of apparel, sourcing, supply, and pricing. A lot of this information has been gathered in our conversations from our brands and suppliers.
The first factor that we see is a great imbalance between supply and demand. Due to ongoing manufacturing issues (as a result of COVID closures and political & trade issues), brands have entered into a manufacturing super-cycle. They are trying to catch up from time that was lost, they are trying to prepare for the season ahead, and they are all vying for space in factories and raw materials. However, factories are having a hard time finding help, and they are limited in their ability to produce more than they have in the past. Before the pandemic global supply chains were already stretched to the max on capacity. This has created a fight for factories, and brands are paying more to get products made, and especially to be made first in line. This has increased costs for manufacturing, upwards of 30%. This is just the cost to get things made.
The second factor we have seen is an increase in demand for raw materials; specifically cotton. Cotton is used by every one of our suppliers, and as they are trying to play catch-up, there is a greater need for it. However, there has been a global ban on the supply of Chinese cotton, which accounts for 25% of the world’s supply. An over-demand of raw materials and a cut in supply has also made the manufacturing costs rise between 10-20%.
The third factor is logistics. Logistics of international supply chains are carefully planned and coordinated, but right now there are breaks in every part of the chain. Due to imbalance of imports and exports, there have been issues supplying containers for finished products. There is such a big demand for finished goods that brands are competing for space on freighters (increasing costs). That is only the beginning of the journey. When the goods are finally getting to the US, ocean-freighters are backed up and cannot come to port and actually unload the containers. The next step continues to slow the process; the shortage of truck drivers and commercial delivery services are causing 10-week delays to get from ports to warehouses. Lastly, the increase in end-user delivery (like UPS and FedEx) has caused increased delays to get to our store (or to your home). These increases in delivery have caused another 5-10% increase in costs per unit.
Combining all of these factors, we are left with a very tough reality; price increases are coming and some are coming sooner rather than later. It seems like every day we are receiving letters from all over the industry regarding impending changes in cost. When we read letters like these, we find it tough striking a balance between what costs can be absorbed and what costs make it necessary to raise our prices. We believe that every product should be based on the value it provides. We believe in consistency, fairness, and making sure that we can deliver the quality products at a great value. We appreciate your support and your understanding in some price increases that you may see on items in our store and on our website. No matter what challenges the store or the industry face, we promise to always do our best to serve those who work hard every day.
Adam, Dave's New York
]]>The Work Shirt, one of Dickies’ earliest products created over 90 years ago, is the ideal complement to the 874 Work Pant. And when worn together is often referred to as the Dickies suit. The Work Shirt completes the head-to-toe Dickies uniform and its blend of quality, durability, and comfort that give them a wide range of uses. From a maintenance uniform for work, or a clean look to complete an outfit, these shirts are as versatile as they come.
Dickies Short Sleeve Work Shirts | Dickies Long Sleeve Work Shirts |
They are made of 5.25-ounce poly cotton twill that is vat-dyed to match their classic work pants like the 874 Original Fit or 873 Slim Fit. Both the short and long sleeve feature two chest pockets with button-through flaps as well as a pencil slot if you need it for work.
As its 100th anniversary approaches, Dickies is celebrating these five icons, and so are we!
The Dickies Coverall was first created over 90 years ago with the intention of protecting ‘street’ clothes at work. Originally made of heavy denim with button up fronts, the Coverall has evolved with new fabrics, colors and zips, but remains undeniably one of the most loved and ubiquitous Dickies products.
Dave’s New York proudly carries three coverall styles, for men and women:
Dickies Long Sleeve Coveralls
- The classic jumpsuit that is used by mechanics, HVAC, plumbers, movers and more
- Made of a durable 7.5-ounce twill that’s 65% polyester / 35% cotton
- Metal zip chest pockets for security
- Side entry pockets to give access to whatever you are wearing underneath your coverall
- Exterior hammer loops to hold accessories
- Elastic woven into the waistband for a better fit
Dickies Men's Short Sleeve Coverall
- Lighter weight for the warmer weather, made of 5-ounce twill that’s 65% polyester/35% cotton
- Still provides protection from most stains, dirt, and oil
- Open chest and back pockets to help carry all of your tools
Women's Long Sleeve Coverall
- 100% cotton, washed for comfort and softness
- Tailored fit for a woman, but still leaves room to move and work
- Cinched waistband for a better fit
- Open pockets, large back pockets for holding tools
As discussions between Henbo and the team here progressed, we narrowed down the details into two main ideas: After a very long year that was tough on so many people, we wanted to host an event that was live so that people could get together to experience something in-person again. And the second thing was that we wanted to do something that was uniquely New York; highlighting things that are iconic to this city. This led to the 2 great designs that Henbo created: King Kong and the Rat-Pigeon-Bagel. This also led to working with Matt at Classy Screens (out of Brooklyn), who could bring his screen-printing setup here to our store.
When someone mentions King Kong, there is only one iconic image that comes to mind: scaling the Empire State Building. So with that in mind, Henbo created his own flair and design for the gorilla where his artistic style is shown in the eyes, face, and expression. The Empire State Building finds its way into the background and of course he is wearing some heavy-duty overalls and a Dave’s tee.
The Rat-Pigeon-Bagel design was created to pay homage to the 3 things that are present in everyday city life. Regardless of where in NYC you live, work, or go, you will see all 3 of these things throughout your day. Henbo added such great details to each character that made everyone smile as soon as they saw them. The bagel wearing overalls was a fan favorite!
When the day arrived, we did not know what to expect as far as the crowd goes, or the number of shirts that may be sold. However, from the moment that we opened Saturday morning, we were greeted by familiar faces that came out to show their support, see the screen printing process, and get a t-shirt of their own. One part of the event that really resonated was that you could pick any Dave’s tee that you wanted (any color, any logo) and then you could pick which design you wanted to put on the back. It gave a custom-designed feel and experience for each customer. We were thrilled that so many friends of Henbo and Dave’s crossed over and came together for a few hours on Saturday.
After 6 hours, and hundreds of tees, we sadly had to end the printing event. The guys doing the work on the printing and drying (Matt and Francisco), as well as the Dave’s team that was doing the sorting, folding, packing, and order-taking were all spent. The event was filled with so many smiles and so much good energy, it was tough to wrap it up. In the days after, talking about how much fun it was to see such a great group of people get together, we have a feeling that this won’t be the last event that we’ll host.
Thanks again to everyone who made Saturday a huge event. Thanks to Henbo for his creative ideas, designs, and efforts he put in to get the event noticed on social media. Thanks to the team at Dave’s for promoting the event in the store, running the operations, and making sure the day went smoothly. Thanks to the guys at Classy Screens for doing flawless work on each and every tee. And thank you to all the people who came to support the event, it is truly appreciated!
Until next time,
Adam, Dave’s New York
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Shirts with Sun Protection
If you are working in an area that is in direct sunlight, then you'll want to wear long sleeves to protect you from getting burned.
1 - CAT Hi-Vis UPF Hooded Banner Long Sleeve T-shirts
A fabric that provides a UPF rating of 30 with a hood to protect your neck. Lightweight and moisture-wicking.
2 - Carhartt Force Hi-Vis Long-Sleeve T-Shirts
A lightweight, moisture-wicking, Force FastDry material that helps block the sun and dries quickly.
3 - Gildan Long Sleeve Ultra Cotton T-Shirts
Solid colors are 100% cotton, hi-vis colors are 50/50. These tees are basic, simple, breathable, and keep your arms covered.
Lightweight Footwear with Protection
1 - Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Safety Toe Work Sneakers
Made with lightweight, breathable mesh. Featuring an alloy toe that meets all safety requirements. Sneaker-like build for comfort and flexibility.
2 - Timberland PRO Men’s Composite Toe Reaxion Waterproof Hikers
These hiker-style boots are waterproof and lightweight. Featuring composite toe cup and heel cup protection. Made with full-grain leather. These are great if you need a boot, need it to be waterproof, but want lightweight protection.
3 - Irish Setter Men’s Kasota Waterproof 6-inch, Composite Toe Work Boots
Lighter weight synthetic leather upper and lightweight flexible outsole. Composite toe cap and heel cup protection. Built like a waterproof hiker for comfort for all day walking.
Head Coverings
1 - Dave’s New York DNY Logo Bandanas
100% cotton that will dry quickly and keep your head protected from the sun.
2 - The North Face Norm Hat
Features a moisture-wicking sweatband. Quick-drying for outdoor activities or work, and offers UPF protection from the sun.
Adam. Dave’s New York
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