Everlane is a company I learned about through Jade of Endlessly Enraptured. In fact it was one of the first companies I came across that inspired American Threads.
Everlane is what I think of as a model company for consumers. They are very open about their production, including where products are made and the forces behind that.
Not all of their merchandise is domestically made, but Everlane tees and Sweatshirts are made in their L.A. factory.
I opted for the Cotton V-Neck Tee in Black. At only $15 it was a good start. I created an account and put the item in my cart, but didn't order yet, I was still contemplating the size. A few days later customer service reached out to see how my experience was so far and offer any assistance I needed. Wasn't pushy or forced, it was actually pretty great to see a company that notices it's potential customers before they even make a purchase.
I explained my project and they kindly credited me $20, so shortly after I took the plunge, and ordered the Cotton V-Neck Tee in Black in a size small.
The tee arrived a day before it's estimated arrival, and I put it right on and never wanted to take it off. It's soooooo soft. The weight is beautiful, it's light but not flimsy, and softer than any vintage tee I own. What I really appreciate is the cut. The dip in the v-neck is perfect, the sleeves are just the right length, and the hem relaxes nicely on the hips.
Next time I order I might go for an xs just because when I wear tapered jeans I like looser tees, and when I wear straight leg I prefer them tighter. But that's a personal preference, the fit is as described on the site.
Everlane has a great range of tees and tanks made in the U.S. and I'd highly recommend them. They're great basics, and $15 for a perfect t-shirt can't be beat.
Bracelet-Allen Company
I found Imogene + Willie from a post Beth did on Local Milk. They're a Nashville based brand, but have a store in Portland Oregon as well as their flagship so I was able to see their products in person before buying.
I was initially attracted to the fact that not only are the jeans crafted domestically, but they have a high waist option, with a true high waist. My natural waist hits pretty high, so while some pants are advertised as "high waist", 90% of the time that means a mid-rise, or reach a couple inches below at best. But these looked pretty promising, so I went to the Portland store to try them on.
And walked out wearing them.
The staff was very helpful, and made sure I got the best fit and was comfortable in the denim I picked. The sizing can get a bit complicated with Imogene + Willie, so if you're unsure and not able to try them in person, know your measurements, contact them, and they can help you find the perfect fit. I measure at a w-25.5 h-38, and tried the 25" Elizabeth in Indigo which I thought fit great, but the employee recommended trying a size down. I put on a 24" and they fit even better, a bit snug at first, but as with all denim it'll relax and form to your body the more you wear it. Which it did, months later and they're just as easy to wear as any other denim in my closet.
This was my first pair of jeans I don't intend to wash much. So far so good, there hasn't been a need and as I mentioned, they have already formed beautifully so I don't want to mess with that. A part of me loves the fresh color and lines, but I also look forward to some getting some wear here and there and a bit of darning and patching.
