History and Meaning Behind Popular Apparel Brand Since 76

The History and Meaning Behind Since 76 Apparel

Since 76 Apparel is a clothing brand that has recently exploded in popularity on social media. The company was founded in 2020 by two friends who shared a passion for creating stylish, comfortable, and high-quality apparel. But what is the meaning and history behind the Since 76 name?

Where Did Since 76 Come From?

The "Since 76" in the brand name is a reference to the year 1976. The founders chose this year because it holds special meaning to them - 1976 was the year that some of their favorite fashion trends and music originated.

The 1970s were a iconic decade for fashion. It was the era of bold prints, bell bottoms, platform shoes, and oversized collars. Music also thrived in the 70s with the rise of disco, punk rock, and early hip hop. So for the Since 76 founders, using 1976 in their company name paid homage to the vibrant culture and nostalgic styles that inspired their apparel designs.

The Meaning Behind the Name

On a deeper level, Since 76 represents valuing creativity, authenticity, and craftsmanship. The founders aim to capture the essence of 1970s style while also breathing new life into classic design. Just as 1970s fashion was innovative and boundary-pushing for its time, Since 76 strives to break the mold with their clothing.

Additionally, the Since 76 name implies quality and commitment. It suggests that the brand has been perfecting their apparel since 1976, reflecting over four decades of experience and expertise. This gives customers confidence that Since 76 takes pride in making long-lasting garments.

How the Meaning is Reflected in the Clothing

Since 76 brings the 1970s into the modern era with unique t-shirt designs and retro-inspired casual wear. For example, their t-shirts feature graphic prints with a vintage look. These prints often incorporate classic 70s motifs like psychedelic flowers, abstract shapes, or old school music icons.

In terms of silhouettes and textiles, Since 76 gives 1970s staples like bell sleeves, high necklines, and soft flannel a fresh twist. Their apparel has a laidback, effortlessly cool vibe with enough modern details to keep the styles feeling current.

Since 76 also emphasizes quality in their clothing production. They use durable fabrics like heavyweight cotton and craft each garment to last. This attention to detail and construction echos the brand's commitment to excellence since 1976.

The Founders’ Inspiration

Co-founders Ava and Elijah Yang drew inspiration from family when naming and creating Since 76 Apparel. They were inspired by the 1970s era style and music that their parents and grandparents introduced them to at a young age.

Ava and Elijah grew up flipping through old vinyl records and photo albums that showcased the iconic 70s fashion trends. As they got older, the founders appreciated how 70s style allowed people to freely express themselves. They aimed to carry on that spirit in their own apparel line.

Beyond style, Ava and Elijah were also influenced by the values and dedication of previous generations in their family. They learned from their parents the importance of crafting goods by hand and running a business with integrity. This inspired them to start Since 76 - a company committed to quality and creativity above all else.

Blending Vintage Style with Modern Sensibilities

While the retro 70s themes are central to the brand, Ava and Elijah blend those vintage elements with a contemporary perspective. They expertise in translating iconic 70s designs in ways that feel fresh and relevant to how people dress today.

For instance, Since 76 has t-shirts displaying classic rock bands rendered in bold graphics and bright colors that appeal to youth culture. The co-founders also design using soft, lightweight fabrics that provide comfort and flexibility for the modern consumer’s active lifestyle.

Ultimately, the goal is to spark nostalgia while also capturing the spirit of current times. Since 76 brings old and new together - much like 1976 was a bridge between the old and new in culture.

Building an Inclusive Brand

In founding Since 76, Ava and Elijah set out to build an apparel brand that promotes values like diversity, equality, and self-expression. They aim for the message behind Since 76 to resonate across demographics.

The co-founders ensure inclusivity by offering apparel ranging from standard to extended sizes. Since 76 also regularly collaborates with artists to feature diverse perspectives in new designs. Past collaborations brought forth designs highlighting LGBTQ+ pride and celebrating Black culture.

Through these efforts, Ava and Elijah hope Since 76 can help give a platform to unheard voices. For them, inclusivity is about upholding the non-conformist creative spirit upon which the brand was founded.

How Since 76 Apparel Got Started

Ava and Elijah launched Since 76 Apparel in early 2020 with just a handful of general t-shirt designs. They spread the word about their vintage-inspired shirts through social media and word-of-mouth. The response was immediately positive, with customers drawn to the unique, artful style.

Transitioning to Full-Time

Within a few months, the demand for Since 76 shirts was high enough that Ava and Elijah decided to focus on the brand full-time. They quit their day jobs and set up a dedicated studio space where they could fulfill orders as well as design new merchandise.

Going all-in on Since 76 required major risk and dedication. But the co-founders believed wholeheartedly in the vision for their vintage-inspired yet forward-thinking apparel brand.

Expanding the Product Offerings

In 2021, Since 76 expanded beyond t-shirts and introduced a selection of 1970s-inspired casual wear pieces. This included releasing button-down shirts, hoodies, jackets, and more – all featuring original Since 76 designs.

Expanding into cut-and-sew garments allowed the brand to further develop its 70s-inspired aesthetic. Since 76 now offered head-to-toe looks enabling customers to fully embrace the retro vibes.

Growing a Loyal Following

Over the past three years, Since 76 has cultivated a devoted customer base drawn to the brand’s commitment to creativity, quality, and individuality. Their followers especially appreciate the way Since 76 empowers personal expression through retro-inspired style.

Much of this growing following stemmed from the brand's savvy use of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Since 76 connected with young demographics online, resulting in viral attention for their products.

As their products gained more consumer interest online, Since 76 focused on scaling up operations in a sustainable way to meet demand. They expanded studio space and staff while also upgrading production and distribution processes.

How Since 76 Apparel Products Are Made

To turn out high-caliber apparel that reflects their values, Since 76 invests greatly in their product development and manufacturing. They always aim to produce clothing the right way - not just the fast and easy way.

In-House Design

Every single Since 76 clothing design originates from the hands of their talented in-house designers. They sketch out concepts for new prints, graphics, and garment silhouettes to capture that perfect retro-inspired look.

The design team pours over fabric swatches, vintage photographs, and 1970s pop culture materials to spark creative direction. They pride themselves on making pieces that are bold and artistic yet wearable.

Responsible Production Practices

During production, Since 76 partners with fair wage local manufacturers whenever possible to construct the garments. If they do source materials or labor outside the U.S., they thoroughly vet vendors for ethical practices.

Since 76 also utilizes recycled textiles in their fabrics and sustainable printing methods. Protecting both apparel workers and the environment is paramount to how they run their operations.

Quality Control

The last step before apparel ships out to customers involves in-depth quality checks. Since 76 employees inspect every garment to identify any defects and ensure the construction is sturdy.

If any product does not meet standards, the team goes back to identify how to improve for the future. This commitment to consistent quality is what the Since 76 name represents.

Popular Since 76 Apparel Styles

Shoppers will find a wide selection of retro-inspired apparel when browsing Since 76 designs. A few of the most popular product styles include:

Graphic Tees

Customers love the brand's soft, light cotton t-shirts printed with unique graphics and icons. The visual tees display everything from psychedelic 70s motifs to modern pop culture images.

Button-Down Shirts

Since 76's flannel button-down shirts call to mind the grunge vibes of the 1970s. But details like trendy oversized fits and cropped lengths modernize the style.

Denim Jackets

Denim jackets are a 1970s wardrobe staple that Since 76 has reinvented. Their versions feature vintage-style stone washing and distressing for that perfectly broken-in look.

Hoodies

Cozy fleece hoodies get a retro revamp with 70s details like bold graphics, contrast stitching, and striped print accents. The hoodies capture laidback 70s attitude.

Dresses

Since 76 takes on 70s maxi dress style with flowing fabrics, dainty florals, and prairie-chic prints. The loose, breezy fits keep the dresses feeling contemporary.

How Online Influencers Helped Boost Since 76’s Popularity

One major factor in Since 76's rise in popularity came from online influencers discovering and sharing the brand. In 2021, social media influencers started wearing Since 76's designs in posts, unboxing videos, and outfit photos on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

These influencers immediately gravitated towards the brands retro-infused aesthetic that felt fresh and fun compared to more minimalist apparel brands. Their endorsement played a key role in introducing Since 76's clothing to new demographics.

TikTok Trendsetters

Young TikTok creators especially promoted Since 76's t-shirts and other apparel through viral challenges, styling videos, and eye-catching transitions featuring the brand's clothes. This exploded interest in Since 76 among Gen Z consumers.

Instagram Partnerships

Since 76 strategically partnered with mid-tier and micro influencers on Instagram who embodied the brand's free-spirited vibe. These creators produced captivating sponsored content like product reviews and style guides that lent authenticity.

Influencer Feedback Driving Improvements

The founders also took constructive feedback from influencer partners seriously. If a common critique arose, Ava and Elijah worked quickly to improve - whether upgrading fabric or adding new sizes to increase inclusivity.

Paying attention to influencer and customer opinions enabled Since 76 to better align their products with people's wants and needs.

Future Goals for Growth and Impact

Going into the future, the Since 76 Apparel team aims to continue growing the brand while staying true to its core mission and values. They plan to collaborate with even more artists and partners to increase the brand's reach and inclusivity.

Since 76 also hopes to explore expanding their product categories. There is potential to apply their retro design perspective to accessories, shoes, or home goods down the line. However, apparel will always remain at the heart of the company.

Above all, Ava and Elijah want Since 76 to inspire creativity, authentic self-expression, and conscious manufacturing. They will measure success not through revenue or fame but through the joy, confidence, and purpose their brand brings to people's lives.

No matter how much Since 76 evolves and grows, their commitment to quality, individuality, and retro-inspired style will persist. The brand owes that consistency and focus to their excellent founders and inspiring name.

FAQs

What is the meaning behind Since 76?

The "Since 76" name refers to the year 1976, which has special meaning for the brand's founders. 1976 was an iconic year for fashion and music that inspires the vintage style of Since 76 designs.

Where are Since 76 clothes made?

Since 76 uses ethical manufacturing practices. Most of their clothes are produced locally in the U.S. at fair wage factories. Some materials are sourced internationally but are thoroughly vetted.

What is Since 76's sizing inclusivity like?

Inclusivity is a core value of Since 76. They offer standard and extended sizes ranging from XS-4XL to accommodate diverse body types. Since 76 also takes customer feedback on sizing seriously.