The "Made in USA" label is synonymous with quality craftsmanship, ethical labor practices, and sustainability. While most clothing brands have shifted production overseas, some American companies still manufacture apparel domestically.
But is American Apparel still made in the USA, and what other garment factories remain?
This guide explores the state of USA-made apparel, key manufacturers, and why domestic clothing production has declined.
Is American Apparel Still Made in the USA?
American Apparel was once one of the largest "Made in USA" clothing manufacturers, but it no longer produces domestically.
The Rise and Fall of American Apparel
✅ Founded in 1989 in Los Angeles, known for its sweatshop-free manufacturing1.
✅ Grew rapidly by promoting ethically made, USA-produced fashion2.
🚫 Filed for bankruptcy in 2015 due to financial struggles.
🚫 Acquired by Gildan in 2017, which shifted production to Central America.
Alternatives to American Apparel
Since American Apparel is no longer USA-made, many brands have stepped up to continue ethical domestic production3.
✅ Los Angeles Apparel – Founded by American Apparel’s original CEO, still producing in California.
✅ Royal Apparel – Organic and eco-friendly USA-made basics.
✅ Goodwear USA – Specializes in high-quality cotton T-shirts.
💡 If you're looking for true "Made in USA" apparel, American Apparel is no longer an option, but several independent brands uphold its original values.
Are There Garment Factories in the US?
Yes! The USA still has garment factories, though the industry is much smaller than before.
Top Garment Factories in the USA
Manufacturer | Location | Specialty |
---|---|---|
Los Angeles Apparel | California | Casualwear & activewear |
Good Clothing Company | Massachusetts | Sustainable fashion4 |
Suuchi Inc. | New Jersey | Tech-driven apparel production5 |
Royal Apparel | New York | Organic, eco-friendly garments |
American Giant | North Carolina | Durable, high-quality basics |
Teg | California | Small-batch, ethical fashion |
Why Choose USA-Based Apparel Manufacturing?
✅ High-Quality Craftsmanship – Better materials and attention to detail.
✅ Ethical Labor Practices – Workers are paid fair wages under strict labor laws.
✅ Faster Shipping & Production – No long wait times for overseas deliveries.
✅ Sustainable Manufacturing – Many USA factories focus on eco-friendly production.
While USA manufacturing is more expensive, brands that prioritize quality and ethical sourcing continue to thrive.
Is Karen Kane Clothing Made in the USA?
Yes! Karen Kane produces a significant portion of its clothing in the USA.
About Karen Kane
✅ Founded in 1979 in Los Angeles.
✅ Known for timeless, high-quality fashion with an emphasis on comfort.
✅ Over 80% of its products are made in the USA.
✅ Uses sustainable fabrics6 and ethical labor practices7.
💡 If you’re looking for a brand that truly embodies "Made in America8" fashion, Karen Kane is one of the best options.
Why Aren’t Clothes Made in the USA Anymore?
In the 1960s, 95% of clothing sold in the USA was made domestically. Today, only about 3% of apparel is manufactured in the USA.
Key Reasons for the Decline of USA Clothing Manufacturing
Reason | Impact |
---|---|
High Labor Costs9 | U.S. wages are significantly higher than in Asia. |
Free Trade Agreements10 | Allowed brands to outsource production at lower costs. |
Global Supply Chains | Materials are cheaper and more accessible overseas. |
Rise of Fast Fashion | Brands prioritize speed and affordability over domestic production. |
Can USA Apparel Manufacturing Make a Comeback?
✅ Automation & Robotics11 – New technologies could reduce labor costs.
✅ Sustainability & Ethical Trends – Consumers demand ethical fashion.
✅ Government Incentives – Tariffs and tax breaks may encourage domestic production.
💡 USA apparel production is unlikely to return to 1960s levels, but niche markets—like premium, sustainable, and ethical fashion—continue to grow.
Conclusion
While most apparel production has moved overseas, "Made in USA" clothing still exists through small and mid-sized manufacturers. Brands like Los Angeles Apparel, Karen Kane, and Goodwear USA continue to uphold domestic craftsmanship and ethical production.
Key Takeaways
✅ American Apparel is no longer made in the USA, but brands like Los Angeles Apparel offer similar products.
✅ USA still has garment factories, focusing on premium and sustainable fashion.
✅ Karen Kane is one of the few brands still manufacturing in the USA.
✅ High labor costs and globalization have led to the decline of domestic clothing production.
For consumers looking for high-quality, ethical, and sustainable fashion, USA-made apparel remains a great investment.
-
Understanding sweatshop-free manufacturing can help you make more ethical fashion choices, supporting fair labor practices. ↩
-
Exploring ethically made, USA-produced fashion can lead you to brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor conditions. ↩
-
Learning about ethical domestic production can help you support local economies and reduce environmental impact. ↩
-
Explore how sustainable fashion contributes to environmental preservation and ethical labor practices in the USA. ↩
-
Discover the impact of technology on apparel production, enhancing speed, precision, and customization in the fashion industry. ↩
-
Learn about the environmental benefits and ethical considerations of using sustainable fabrics in the fashion industry. ↩
-
Discover how ethical labor practices contribute to fair working conditions and the overall quality of fashion products. ↩
-
Explore the top brands that support local manufacturing and ethical practices, ensuring quality and sustainability. ↩
-
Understanding the disparity in labor costs can provide insights into global manufacturing trends and economic policies. ↩
-
Exploring the impact of Free Trade Agreements reveals the complexities of global trade and its effects on domestic industries. ↩
-
Discovering the role of technology in manufacturing can offer solutions to high labor costs and boost domestic production. ↩