The 2016 candidates are sporting a similar sweater style.
It’s the must-have look of the 2016 primary season — and we aren’t talking about that infamous hat.
Pulitzer Prize winning fashion critic Robin Givhan recently chronicled just how much the men on the campaign trail love themselves a zip-collar sweater.
Marco Rubio has rocked a “charcoal-gray pullover with his name embroidered on it.” Rand Paul has sported a “zip-front vest,” while Jeb Bush has turned up in sweaters in a variety of colors and styles. It’s not just the GOPers, either — Bernie Sanders “opts for a simple V-neck, because who needs all the extravagance of a zipper.”
Whatever style the candidates wear, we are here to remind them to Keep it Made in America — and we’re ready to help these candidates pick out a few American-made selections. After all, we wouldn’t want any of the candidates to get unwanted attention for wearing foreign-made fashion (cough Rubio cough).
Orvis: The company has the distinction of being America’s oldest mail-order outfitter AND longest continually-operating fly-fishing business. It also sells a quarter-zip pullover sweater that would suit any of the candidates, available in a variety of colors for $89.
All American Clothing Co.: At $39.99, the Ohio-based outfitter’s ¼ Zip Fleece is a real bargain. Featuring ribbed cuffs with a cadet collar, the sweater is available in black, charcoal, navy, and cardinal.
American Giant: The hipster-friendly company’s hoodie has been called the “greatest hoodie ever made,” and for good reason. (Full disclosure: I own two of the hoodies, and absolutely love them.) While the company doesn’t offer a half-zip style, the essential full zip or the classic crew are an excellent choice for the campaign trail.
Filson: Launched in 1897 to outfit the stampeders of the Klondike Gold Rush, Filson specializes in “tough, comfortable outdoor clothing” that continues to be Made in America. Presidential candidates might opt to sport a pose in the brand’s heavyweight crew sweater or wool shirts.
UPDATE: A reader lets us know we missed Maine-based American Roots, which makes jackets, pullovers and vests for both men and women. Another great campaign trail option!
One more thing: As Givhan notes in her piece, Donald Trump is the exception to the rule when it comes to the zip-collar sweater trend. He sticks to suits, probably from his own line (which is unfortunately made overseas).
We’d remind The Donald that he should practice what he preaches when it comes to supporting Made in America — and also put out a PSA to remind readers that Brooks Brothers manufacturers its ties just outside New York City. Joseph Abboud also sells a Made in America suit.
Did we miss your favorite Made in America men’s sweater maker? Send me an email at [email protected] and I’ll update the list.