In the bustling world of fashion, where trends change faster than seasons, there’s a local brand that’s rebelling against the norm. Fred & Co 1745, a clothing line based in Frederick County, is making waves with its unique approach to fashion.
The brand, which was established as a rebellion against the fast-paced, trend-driven fashion industry, is all about creating timeless, classic pieces that are sustainable, conflict-free, and predominantly made in the United States.
The name ‘Fred & Co 1745’ is a nod to the history of Frederick County. “In 1745, there was a rebellion after land speculation which led to Frederick being established as a city. Our line is our rebellion against fashion,” explains co-founder Chaz Stitely. He, along with AJ Naylor, started the company, later bringing in a third partner, Sam Delgado, as they delved deeper into the cut and sew aspect of the business.
Fred & Co 1745 doesn’t cater to a ‘typical’ customer. Instead, it aims to create versatile pieces that can be incorporated into various outfits. “I think the beautiful thing about Fred & Co 1745 is that we don’t have a ‘typical’ customer,” says Stitely. However, he does believe that their customers share a common mindset. They are conscious consumers who care about sustainability and ethical practices, mirroring the brand’s own values.
The brand was born out of a perceived gap in the menswear and streetwear market. Stitely and Naylor noticed that many people were buying new wardrobes every season to keep up with the latest trends. This ‘fast fashion’ approach often resulted in low-quality clothing produced in large volumes and through unethical practices. “We are trying to push the industry toward a different mindset. Slow Fashion – to buy higher quality pieces, less frequently,” Stitely explains.
Fred & Co 1745 is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a movement. It’s a call to consumers to think more ethically about their clothing choices, to prioritize quality over quantity, and to embrace timeless style over fleeting trends. It’s a rebellion against the fast fashion industry, and it’s a rebellion that’s gaining momentum.
photo cred: Fred and co. 1745
