5 of the Top Western Apparel Fashion Brands to Work For
If you’re looking to start your career in Western fashion, you may wonder where to start. Should you go with a younger cowboy boot startup or an established brand with a suite of western products? Here are some of the top western brands to explore:
1. Wrangler
Not many companies have endured over 70 years, but Wrangler is an exception. Wrangler’s passion for being a fashion industry pioneer began with Rodeo Ben, who tailored jeans for professional rodeo cowboys. Since then, celebrities like Jason Aldean have endorsed Wrangler jeans for their comfort and durability. Boasting more than 15,000 employees worldwide, Wrangler carefully fosters growth in its employees’ careers and personal lives. Fashion design graduates can apply for Intern Design positions where you’ll encounter hands-on learning and gain exclusive industry knowledge. Just as founder C. C. Hudson advanced from textile factory to fashion mogul, you too can fulfill your career ambitions at Wrangler.
2. Ariat
Headquartered in Union City, California, Ariat accrues roughly $300 million in annual revenue. Co-founders Beth Cross and Pam Parker encourage innovation, dedication, and exploring possibilities. They know the company’s success rests on its employees’ shoulders, and Ariat’s dynamic work environment proves it. Ariat offers a range of opportunities, from Denim Designers to Footwear Product Developers. Ariat also promotes from within, so you can work your way into your dream job, gaining invaluable experience along your journey. And while you’re busy chasing your aspirations, you can even bring your dog to work. What’s better than that?
3. Levi Strauss & Co.
Although Levi jeans have branched out from Western wear, their roots are essential in the American West. Levi Strauss immigrated to San Francisco during the Gold Rush. While operating a dry goods store, he realized prospectors could use higher quality clothing. Teaming up with tailor Jacob Davis, Strauss patented a durable pair of jeans ideal for the hardworking population. Now, Levi Strauss & Co. operates in over 100 countries. Self-described as “a company of trailblazers and creative thinkers,” there’s no better opportunity to launch your fashion career. Their summer internship program for college juniors and grad students is the perfect place to get started.
4. Cavender’s
Established in 1965, Cavender’s is known as the Western apparel champion of the American Southwest. Entrepreneurs James and Pat Cavender set up a boot store in rural eastern Texas. Throughout the following decades, that store blossomed into many more across the state. In 2015, Cavender’s launched private labels Rafter C and Old Gringo boots that are known for their quality and affordability. The Cavender family has been a part of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame since 2019, and Cavender’s prestige only seems to increase. Still family-owned and operated, Cavender’s celebrates a spirit of belonging in the workplace. If you’ve always fantasized about living an idyllic Western lifestyle while attaining your career goals, consider becoming a part of the Cavender family in Tyler, Texas.
5. Miller International
Owner of Cinch, Cruel, and Miller Ranch jeans, Miller International prides itself on producing exceptional Western clothing. They’ve been in business in Denver, CO since 1918, remaining one of the top Western apparel outlets in the country. Instilling integrity and accountability in their staff is a deeply-felt priority. Ample benefits packages, tuition reimbursement, and advancement opportunities are just a few of their employment perks.
