Who is the Biggest Clothing Manufacturer in the USA?

The United States has a rich history in textile and clothing manufacturing, and despite the global shift toward offshoring production, several companies still maintain a significant presence in the domestic fashion industry. In 2025, American clothing manufacturers are not only leading the way in volume production but also in innovation, sustainability, and job creation. Whether through producing iconic American brands or through private-label manufacturing, these companies play a vital role in the apparel market.

1. Hanesbrands Inc.

Overview: Hanesbrands Inc. is arguably the largest clothing manufacturer in the USA. The company, headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is known for its wide range of apparel, including underwear, activewear, and socks. Hanesbrands is a powerhouse in the American clothing industry, with an extensive portfolio of popular brands like Hanes, Champion, Playtex, and Maidenform.

Key Products: Hanes is best known for its basic essentials, including t-shirts, underwear, socks, and sweatshirts. The Champion brand, in particular, has surged in popularity due to its appeal in the streetwear and athleisure markets. Hanesbrands also manufactures performance and activewear, as well as workwear and outdoor clothing.

Manufacturing Reach: Hanesbrands operates in multiple countries and has manufacturing facilities in the United States, though the majority of its production takes place overseas in low-cost labor markets like Honduras, El Salvador, and Vietnam. However, the company still has a sizable U.S. manufacturing footprint, particularly in North Carolina, and is one of the largest domestic clothing manufacturers in the country.

Impact on the U.S. Market: Hanesbrands is a major contributor to the U.S. economy, with over 60,000 employees globally. The company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and domestic manufacturing has kept it at the forefront of American clothing production. It also emphasizes eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials and adopting renewable energy sources in its production processes.

2. Fruit of the Loom

Overview: Fruit of the Loom, owned by Berkshire Hathaway, is another major American clothing manufacturer with a rich history that dates back to the 1850s. The company produces a wide range of apparel, including underwear, activewear, and casual clothing for men, women, and children. Known for its high-quality basics, Fruit of the Loom competes closely with Hanesbrands in the mass-market clothing sector.

Key Products: Fruit of the Loom’s most well-known products include t-shirts, sweatshirts, socks, and undergarments. The brand is widely recognized for providing affordable, comfortable basics, making it a go-to choice for consumers looking for reliable, everyday clothing.

Manufacturing Reach: Fruit of the Loom maintains a substantial manufacturing presence in the U.S. and abroad. While much of its manufacturing is done in countries like Mexico, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic, it continues to have U.S.-based operations. The brand’s headquarters are in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where it oversees both domestic and international operations.

Impact on the U.S. Market: Fruit of the Loom has a major footprint in the American apparel industry, employing thousands across its manufacturing plants, retail stores, and corporate offices. As part of the Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate, the company enjoys significant resources, allowing it to maintain its competitive position in the marketplace.

3. American Apparel

Overview: American Apparel was once the epitome of American-made fashion, with a strong focus on domestically produced, sweatshop-free clothing. Though it filed for bankruptcy and was bought by Canadian company Gildan in 2017, American Apparel remains an important name in the conversation about U.S. clothing manufacturing. Gildan’s acquisition helped revive the brand, which continues to emphasize high-quality, made-in-the-USA apparel.

Key Products: American Apparel is renowned for its basic, stylish pieces, including t-shirts, leggings, hoodies, and sweatshirts. Its minimalist designs and focus on American-made garments continue to resonate with a growing consumer demand for ethical, locally-produced fashion.

Manufacturing Reach: Under Gildan’s leadership, American Apparel has returned to U.S.-based manufacturing. The brand operates its production facilities in California, ensuring that many of its garments are made domestically. American Apparel’s commitment to manufacturing within the United States is a major draw for those who prioritize supporting local jobs and sustainable production.

Impact on the U.S. Market: American Apparel remains influential as a symbol of ethical fashion, focusing on fair wages, labor practices, and local production. While Gildan now oversees the brand’s operations, American Apparel continues to promote U.S.-based manufacturing, which resonates with eco-conscious and ethical consumers.

4. Gildan Activewear

Overview: While Gildan is Canadian by origin, its significant manufacturing operations in the United States have made it one of the largest clothing manufacturers in the country. Gildan is best known for producing affordable, high-quality activewear, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and socks. The company owns a wide range of brands, including Gildan, Anvil, and Comfort Colors, and manufactures products for several private-label customers.

Key Products: Gildan’s product portfolio includes a broad range of t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, socks, and underwear. The company also manufactures sportswear and casual wear that can be found in many major retail chains across the U.S. and globally.

Manufacturing Reach: Gildan is one of the largest producers of basic apparel in the U.S., with several manufacturing plants in the country. The company also has an extensive network of operations in countries like Honduras and Nicaragua but maintains a substantial production presence in the U.S. Gildan’s commitment to quality and affordability has made it a go-to brand for many large retailers.

Impact on the U.S. Market: Gildan is a major employer in the U.S., with thousands of workers involved in production, logistics, and retail operations. The company also has a strong focus on sustainability, including initiatives to reduce water usage and improve waste management in its manufacturing processes.

5. Nike, Inc.

Overview: Nike is arguably the biggest and most influential brand in the U.S. apparel industry. While the company is primarily known for its footwear, it also produces a vast range of athletic clothing and performance gear. Nike’s commitment to innovation, technology, and cutting-edge design has made it a global leader in both fashion and sportswear.

Key Products: Nike offers a wide range of apparel, from running shoes and workout gear to casual athleisure wear. The company is famous for its performance-driven apparel, such as running shorts, leggings, sports bras, and training jackets. Nike is also known for its collaborations with high-end designers and celebrities, which have helped elevate its fashion-forward appeal.

Manufacturing Reach: Nike’s manufacturing is primarily overseas, with facilities in countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. However, the company has a significant presence in the U.S. market, with research and development centers, retail outlets, and a strong presence in the sporting world.

Impact on the U.S. Market: Nike is a major player in the American clothing industry, with a dominant market share in the sportswear sector. The company continues to innovate with sustainable practices and technologies, such as the use of recycled materials in its clothing and footwear lines.

What is the Most American Clothing?

The most American clothing is often considered to be items that reflect the nation’s cultural heritage, history, and iconic style. Some of the most American clothing items include:

1. Jeans (Levi’s)

Jeans are perhaps the most iconic American garment, and Levi’s is the brand most closely associated with the history of denim. Created during the Gold Rush in 1850s California, Levi’s jeans became a symbol of hard work and American resilience. The brand’s 501 Original jeans are considered a quintessential piece of American fashion.

2. T-Shirts (Hanes, Fruit of the Loom)

The T-shirt is a staple in American casual wear, and brands like Hanes and Fruit of the Loom are known for producing these simple yet essential items. The T-shirt became a symbol of youth culture in the mid-20th century, popularized by icons like James Dean and Marlon Brando. It is now a symbol of freedom, comfort, and American style.

3. Baseball Caps (New Era, ’47 Brand)

Baseball caps are another piece of clothing that is deeply tied to American culture. The hat is synonymous with American sports, particularly baseball, and brands like New Era and ’47 Brand dominate the market. These caps are not only worn for athletic purposes but have also become fashion statements, often representing one’s favorite team or personal style.

4. Workwear (Carhartt, Dickies)

Workwear, such as Carhartt and Dickies apparel, has a deep connection to American labor culture. These brands are known for their durable clothing that was originally designed for manual laborers. Over time, workwear like cargo pants, flannel shirts, and durable jackets has also become a popular casual style.

5. Polo Shirts (Ralph Lauren)

The polo shirt, especially Ralph Lauren’s version, embodies the preppy American aesthetic. The brand’s use of the polo shirt with its signature logo has become a symbol of affluence, leisure, and classic American fashion. The polo shirt is a key item in the American wardrobe and is worn across a variety of settings, from casual outings to more formal events.

6. Denim Jackets (Levi’s, Wrangler)

The denim jacket, another piece of Americana, is deeply tied to the American West, rock ‘n’ roll culture, and rebellion. Brands like Levi’s and Wrangler helped popularize the denim jacket, which has remained a timeless and iconic part of American casual wear.

7. Leather Jackets (Schott NYC, Harley-Davidson)

Leather jackets, particularly the classic biker jacket, are another iconic piece of American clothing. Brands like Schott NYC and Harley-Davidson have helped define the leather jacket as a symbol of American rebellion, freedom, and the open road. These jackets are a staple in American fashion, especially within the motorcycle and rock culture.

8. Flannel Shirts (Plaid)

Flannel shirts, often in plaid patterns, are linked with American working-class style, especially in rural and farm settings. Brands like Carhartt and Dickies make flannel shirts that are not only functional for manual labor but also fashionable as part of the American “country” or “grunge” look.

9. Varsity Jackets (Letterman Jackets)

Varsity jackets, or letterman jackets, are strongly associated with American high school and college life. These jackets are worn by athletes or students who excel in sports or other extracurricular activities. The varsity jacket symbolizes youth, school spirit, and American pride.

10. Boots (Timberland, Red Wing Shoes)

American-made boots, such as Timberland and Red Wing Shoes, are iconic for their rugged durability and craftsmanship. Originally designed for work, these boots have become synonymous with American outdoor culture and fashion, popular for both practical use and as a fashion statement.

When it comes to the “most American clothing,” items like jeans, T-shirts, denim jackets, and workwear are quintessential symbols of American style. These garments are rooted in the country’s history, from labor and industrial wear to sports and youth culture, and have become globally recognized as emblems of American fashion.

Conclusion

The U.S. clothing manufacturing industry may have shifted toward global outsourcing over the past few decades, but several companies have maintained a strong domestic presence. Brands like Hanesbrands Inc., Fruit of the Loom, American Apparel, Gildan, and Nike continue to dominate the American clothing landscape, providing jobs, fostering innovation, and contributing to the economy. As consumers demand more sustainable and ethically produced clothing, American manufacturers are increasingly focusing on meeting these needs while keeping production close to home. The future of American-made fashion looks promising, with these manufacturers leading the way in both style and sustainability.