RefrigiWear

RefrigiWear is an outerwear brand founded in New York in 1954 to make insulated clothing for cold storage workers, now also run as a fashion label from Italy. Its fashion collections combine workwear heritage with streetwear and include parkas, down jackets, knitwear and accessories.

What is RefrigiWear?

RefrigiWear began as a maker of insulated workwear and has developed a second life as a fashion brand. Two entities carry the name: RefrigiWear Inc. in the United States continues to serve the workwear market, while the Italian company RefrigiWear Distribution S.r.l., based in Rome, runs the fashion business.

History

Myron Breakstone and his brother-in-law Mortimer Malden founded the company in New York City in 1954 to make warm clothing for cold storage and meatpacking workers, under the motto "tough warm clothing for cold tough work". The company began exporting to Italy in 1994, and distribution agreements in 2000 and 2004 led to the acquisition of the brand for several territories including Europe, Japan and Russia. It celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2024.

Products and positioning

The fashion collections include:

• Men's parkas, down jackets, bombers and vests
• Women's jackets, coats and knitwear
• Trousers, denim, T-shirts and swimwear
• Accessories such as hats, scarves, gloves, bags and shoes

Collaborations have included Supreme in 2020, Staple, Ducati Scrambler and the VR46 Racing Team.

Why it matters

RefrigiWear is a clear example of a workwear heritage name repositioned as a fashion brand through territorial brand rights held in Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Where is RefrigiWear from?

RefrigiWear was founded in New York in 1954, and its fashion business is run by an Italian company based in Rome.

What does RefrigiWear sell?

RefrigiWear's fashion line sells outerwear such as parkas and down jackets, plus knitwear, trousers, swimwear and accessories.

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