If you haven't already acquainted yourself with the Hank brand, I'm pleased to be the one making the introductions. A few Michigan natives started developing the brand this past fall, and in April they finally launched. I discovered Hank through Twitter, and soon recognized the same enthusiasm for good gear, and quality > quantity mindset that I have myself. Co-founder Adam Rice and I were able to connect over the phone a few weeks ago, and he gave me the scoop on the philosophy behind the Hank brand and what developments are to come.
Adam emphasized that in getting their Spring 2013 Collection together, consistent price points were a priority. The shame about the "made in USA" movement, he explained, is that customers have grown so accustomed to price gouging that they assume all fine quality American goods have to be expensive. When these customers see something more reasonably priced, they automatically assume that the quality isn't there, and that's just not correct. According to Adam, it's really not as expensive to manufacture here as people think. That being said, the Hank folks collaborated with some favorite American brands (Parrott Canvas Co., Pointer Brand, Ebbets Field, etc.) to create some exclusive items. Through their debut collection, Hank has established itself as a marketplace for thoughtfully curated American goods. The people of Hank are interested as much in the story behind a brand as they are in the goods themselves. This emphasis on people and stories turns their collection into a narrative that reads as much more than just a shop with some hats and shirts... it's a conversation about the American experience.
The move that Hank aims to make, however, is becoming a distinctive BRAND all on their own. While the Fall collection will include more collaborations with Pointer Brand (look for a few new Chore coats tweaked just for Hank), they're looking to put out their own shirting and chinos as well, and are enjoying going through the design process for the first time.
The folks at Hank have the right combination of ambition, integrity, and passion for fine men's goods. The Spring Collection includes a bunch of classic must-haves, and as the brand comes into their own I'm sure they'll come out with plenty of new favorites. As an un-femme lady, I have a few Hank picks of my own.
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