Since its inception 119 years ago, Harley-Davidson has not only solidified itself as a renowned motorcycle manufacturer but as an iconic lifestyle brand, with petrol heads and non-motorcyclists alike often seen sporting a t-shirt with the instantly recognisable logo emblazoned across it. Along with Indian motorcycles, Harley-Davidson was one of just two American motorcycle manufacturers to survive the Great Depression, with the Wisconsin-based brand going on to become the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world.
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Now, for the first time in its storied history, Harley-Davidson has granted an outsider access to its archives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The outsider in question? American fashion designer Todd Synder. Along with Champion sportswear, Todd Snyder has created a limited-edition heritage Harley-Davidson capsule, inspired by the halcyon days of motorcycle racing.
Coveralls in vintage white
The history of the all-white coveralls dates back to 1919 when Harley-Davidson founded their first school for training mechanics. It was thought that an all-white uniform would instil confidence in consumers, similar to that of a pharmacist’s lab coat.
While Harley-Davidson hasn’t teamed up with other brands or individuals in the past, Todd Synder is an old hand at the game of collaboration. Founded in 2011, the eponymous label has partnered with the likes of Timex, Converse, and New Balance. Fusing the meticulous detail of Savile Row craftsmanship with military and New York style influences, Todd Snyder was an apt choice to bring the nostalgic energy of Harley-Davidson to life sartorially.
Comprising motorcycle jackets, chore jackets, crew neck and half-zip sweatshirts, t-shirts, camp collar shirts, and overalls, the limited-edition capsule collection is surprisingly extensive. Channelling the rebellious energy of old-school motorcycling, the collection exudes retro energy, infusing workwear staples with a heritage appeal and incorporating vintage graphics across the line. Collection highlights include a black, orange, and white colour-blocked cotton motorcycle jacket; vintage-style off-white overalls that draw from the uniform used when training motorcycle mechanics (the white hue was thought to instill confidence in customers); and half-zip sweatshirts in back and white, each featuring a Harley-Davidson patch on the sleeve.
“Harley launched their first catalogue in 1912 to sell parts, accessories and apparel,” noted Snyder in a press release, “And I was really inspired by the technical gear–racing sweaters that reminded me of vintage football jerseys–and the graphics, some which were over a century old and others from the 60s and 70s.”
Equal parts wearable and nostalgic, the heritage-infused Harley Davidson x Todd Snyder capsule is available via the Todd Snyder webstore.
Words by John Deckard
