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Established over 20 years ago.The Difference Between Carhartt and Carhartt WIP: A Comprehensive Guide
When you think of rugged workwear that combines both durability and style, Carhartt immediately comes to mind. It's been a go-to brand for manual labourers, tradies, and anyone looking for tough, reliable clothing since 1889. But in the last few decades, a new line has emerged that takes Carhartt’s hard-wearing legacy and gives it a more streetwear-driven edge: Carhartt WIP.
You might have wondered—what exactly is the difference between Carhartt and Carhartt WIP? Are they just two names for the same thing? Or is there more to it? Here’s everything you need to know about these two distinct sides of the Carhartt brand.
What is Carhartt?
Before we jump into Carhartt WIP, let’s first take a look at the original Carhartt. Founded in 1889 in Michigan, USA, by Hamilton Carhartt, the brand started with a simple mission: to provide workwear that could withstand the toughest conditions. Over the years, Carhartt has become synonymous with high-quality, durable gear designed for people working in industries like construction, farming, and transport.
The original Carhartt line primarily focuses on heavy-duty fabrics like cotton duck and denim, offering tough outerwear, jackets, overalls, and trousers for people who need to get their hands dirty. If you're after workwear that stands up to long hours and hard conditions, Carhartt is what you’re after.
You can learn more about the rich history of Carhartt here.
What is Carhartt WIP?
Carhartt Work In Progress, or ‘Carhartt WIP’, is essentially Carhartt's more fashion-forward sibling. Founded in Europe by Edwin Faeh in 1994, Edwin and his partner Salomée were selling Original Carhartt for a couple of years before being granted the license to establish Carhartt WIP. initially a project to create a range that could appeal to a younger, more urban audience without sacrificing the brand's legendary durability.
Today, Carhartt WIP is a brand that melds workwear with streetwear, merging the iconic Carhartt toughness with contemporary, style-conscious designs. Think of it as Carhartt’s more polished and trend-conscious counterpart, offering everything from stylish jackets to relaxed-fit t-shirts, and even tailored trousers.
Key Design Differences Between Carhartt and Carhartt WIP
One of the first things you'll notice when you compare Carhartt and Carhartt WIP is the design aesthetic. While both brands are rooted in workwear, their styles have evolved differently over time.
- Carhartt sticks closely to the traditional workwear design—think sturdy, functional, and no-nonsense. The fits are more utilitarian and loose, designed for comfort and durability during long working hours.
- Carhartt WIP, on the other hand, draws heavily from street culture. The cuts are more fashion forward, the colours more varied, and the designs more experimental. Carhartt WIP tends to play with trends, creating garments that work as well on the street as they do in the workshop.
FAQ
Do They Use Different Materials?
Yes, there’s a noticeable difference in the materials used by both lines. Carhartt’s products are built to withstand hard labour, so they rely heavily on ultra-durable fabrics like cotton duck, denim, and canvas, which are ideal for heavy-duty work.
Carhartt WIP, however, uses a broader range of materials. While they still utilise the tough fabrics from Carhartt, they also experiment with lighter, more breathable fabrics like nylon and corduroy, which are better suited for urban environments and streetwear aesthetics. This makes Carhartt WIP gear more comfortable for daily wear in cities, offering a mix of durability and style.
Can I Use Carhartt WIP for Actual Work?
You might be wondering, “Can I use Carhartt WIP for the same types of heavy-duty tasks I do in traditional Carhartt?” While Carhartt WIP offers some durable pieces that could theoretically withstand a bit of hard work, it isn’t built for the same level of ruggedness.
Carhartt WIP garments often prioritise design and style over the raw durability needed for physically demanding jobs. So, if you're a tradesperson or someone who works in environments where you need real heavy-duty protection, you might want to stick with traditional Carhartt. However, if you’re looking for something to wear around the city or during lighter work tasks, Carhartt WIP offers a more fashion-forward approach while still remaining hard wearing.
Why is Carhartt WIP More Expensive?
You’ll likely notice that Carhartt WIP items are often priced higher than their more traditional counterparts. Why’s that?
Well, there are a few reasons:
- Premium Materials: Carhartt WIP often uses lighter, more refined fabrics that may cost more than the rugged cotton duck used in Carhartt's core line.
- Design and Branding: As a streetwear brand, Carhartt WIP spends more on design and trend-driven collections, often collaborating with other designers or artists. The added branding, premium materials, and creative direction all factor into the higher price tag.
- Craftsmanship: While still durable, Carhartt WIP items may incorporate more intricate stitching, custom hardware, and unique patterns that contribute to their elevated cost.
But in the end, whether the price difference is worth it really depends on what you're looking for. If you want something that marries style with functionality, Carhartt WIP is a great investment.
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the decision between Carhartt and Carhartt WIP comes down to what you need. If you're looking for reliable, hard-wearing clothing that will stand up to tough conditions, Carhartt is your best bet. However, if you’re after something that merges durability and style, Carhartt WIP is the perfect fit.
For those in the UK, both brands have become staples in the fashion world. Carhartt's classic appeal and Carhartt WIP’s twist are both hugely popular. Whether you're working or out in the streets, both lines offer something worth considering.
Shop our full Carhartt WIP collection here.
