Midwest R&D: Carhartt WIP

Midwest R&D by Xhibition — a platform dedicated to developing, creating, and styling that resonates with the cultural trends of the Midwest. Merges local inspiration with innovative fashion, offering a perspective that embodies the spirit and diversity of the region.

Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) has taken workwear from the job site to the runway, redefining how utility and style intersect. Originally built for durability and function, Carhartt’s classic designs like the Detroit Jacket and double-knee pants have evolved from tools of the trade into fashion icons. So how did rugged gear become a streetwear must-have?

The key lies in Carhartt WIP’s ability to blend heritage with contemporary design. Launched in 1989, the European arm of Carhartt reimagined workwear for a new generation. By keeping the brand’s authentic roots intact — known for it’s heavy-duty fabrics and utilitarian cuts — while introducing contemporary fits and collabs with new designers, Carhartt WIP captured the attention of trendsetters.

Worn by artists, skaters, and creatives, Carhartt WIP’s pieces now represent cultural crossover. The rise of normcore and functional fashion further cemented its role in the fashion scene, making workwear not just practical, but a symbol of understated cool.

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