Early Beginnings (1918–1922)

The story of Dickies began in 1918, when business partners C.N. Williamson and E.E. “Colonel” Dickie established a company producing harnesses and equipment for horses. As industrialization expanded across America, they recognized the growing demand for durable clothing designed for manual labor.

In 1922, they officially founded the Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company, shifting their focus from horse equipment to work apparel. Their first major product was a rugged denim bib overall made for ranchers, railroad workers, mechanics, and farmers throughout the American Southwest.2

The Great Depression (1930s)

Despite the economic hardship of the Great Depression, Dickies continued to grow. The company built a reputation for producing affordable, dependable workwear while maintaining strong relationships with its workforce. Historical company records note that employees were even provided free meals on production lines during this period.2

World War II

During World War II, the U.S. government commissioned Dickies to manufacture military uniforms. The company temporarily suspended civilian clothing production and produced approximately nine million heavy-duty twill uniforms for the American armed forces.

This period significantly enhanced Dickies’ manufacturing expertise and reinforced its reputation for quality and reliability.2

International Expansion (1950s)

Following the war, Dickies resumed civilian production and expanded internationally.

Texas oil workers introduced Dickies clothing to oil fields in the Middle East, where its durable garments proved highly effective in demanding working environments. This helped establish Dickies as an internationally respected workwear brand.2

The Birth of an Icon: The 874 Work Pant (1967)

One of Dickies’ most important milestones came in 1967 with the release of the 874 Original Work Pant.

The 874 featured:

• Heavy-duty twill fabric
• Wrinkle resistance
• Stain resistance
• Reinforced construction
• Long-lasting durability
• Affordable pricing

The 874 quickly became Dickies’ signature product and remains one of the most recognizable work pants in the world.12

Beginning in the late 1980s, Dickies transitioned beyond traditional workwear.

Its loose-fitting pants became popular among:

• Skateboarders
• BMX riders
• Hip-hop artists
• Punk musicians
• Chicano culture
• West Coast youth culture

Skaters appreciated the durability and freedom of movement, while musicians and streetwear enthusiasts embraced the minimalist aesthetic.

Unlike many fashion brands, Dickies did not intentionally market itself to these communities; the adoption happened organically because the garments were functional, affordable, and tough.12

Today, Dickies manufactures a wide variety of apparel, including:

Workwear

• Work pants
• Work shirts
• Coveralls
• Bib overalls
• High-visibility clothing
• Safety apparel

Casual Clothing

• Chinos
• Cargo pants
• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Jeans
• Shorts

Outerwear

• Eisenhower Jackets
• Bomber jackets
• Insulated jackets
• Denim jackets

Professional Uniforms

• Medical scrubs
• Mechanic uniforms
• Industrial uniforms
• Tactical apparel

Accessories

• Backpacks
• Hats
• Belts
• Socks
• Bags1

874 Original Work Pant

Dickies’ best-selling product for decades and widely regarded as a workwear icon.

Eisenhower Jacket

Originally inspired by military jackets worn during World War II, it has become one of Dickies’ signature outerwear pieces.

Bib Overalls

The company’s original flagship product dating back to the 1920s.

Coveralls

Popular among mechanics, technicians, and industrial workers worldwide.

Dickies emphasizes:

• Durability
• Functionality
• Simplicity
• Comfort
• Affordability
• Timeless design

Rather than following fast-changing fashion trends, the brand focuses on creating garments built for long-term use in demanding environments.1

Dickies has become deeply embedded in global street culture.

Its clothing has been embraced by:

• Skateboarding communities
• Hip-hop artists
• Punk scenes
• Chicano fashion
• BMX riders
• Contemporary streetwear enthusiasts

Because of its authentic workwear heritage, Dickies is often viewed as a brand that naturally bridges utility and fashion.12

Dickies has collaborated with numerous fashion and streetwear brands, including:

• Supreme
• Stüssy
• Converse
• Vans
• BEAMS
• mastermind JAPAN
• Neighborhood

These collaborations reinterpret classic Dickies silhouettes while preserving their utilitarian character.

Dickies products are available in:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia
• Australia
• South America
• Africa
• Middle East

The brand distributes workwear, lifestyle apparel, and uniforms in more than 100 countries.1

Dickies was originally operated as the Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company. It was acquired by VF Corporation in 2017. In late 2025, VF completed the sale of Dickies to Bluestar Alliance, a brand management company, as part of VF’s portfolio restructuring.3

Dickies promotes values centered on:

• Hard work
• Reliability
• Durability
• Honest craftsmanship
• Practical design
• Accessibility

Its slogan and messaging consistently emphasize clothing that is “built to last” and designed for people who rely on dependable apparel in everyday life.1

From a small Texas overall manufacturer to a globally recognized workwear icon, Dickies has maintained its reputation for producing durable, practical clothing while becoming an influential name in modern fashion. Its signature pieces—especially the 874 Work Pant, Eisenhower Jacket, and bib overalls—remain staples for workers, skaters, and streetwear enthusiasts alike, reflecting a century-long legacy of functionality, quality, and enduring style.

1. Dickies History | 100 Years of Durable Workwear US
2. About Dickies® B2B Workwear | Industrial Safety Uniforms | Dickies® B2B
3. Texas-born Dickies gets acquired by New York private equity firm