The central theme of Engineered Garments' Fall Winter 2023 collection is "Heavy Duty Ivy," a concept that draws upon the rich history of rugged American clothing from the 20th century. The collection reimagines classic silhouettes and fabrics under the Engineered Garments brand, with Filson, the renowned Seattle-based outdoor company, as a significant source of inspiration.

On August 16, 1896, an American prospector and two First Nation men stumbled upon gold in Klondike, Yukon, Canada. This discovery sparked a gold rush, leading to over 100,000 men heading northward in a stampede. The repercussions of this "Klondicitis" included significant development in Northwestern American cities. Once a quiet town, Seattle became the launching point for the northward journey and experienced a population surge from 42,000 in 1890 to over 80,000 by 1900.

C.C. Filson seized the opportunity presented by the region's rapid expansion. He established "Pioneer Alaska Clothing and Blanket Manufacturers" on Seattle's First Avenue, just a block from the steamship dock. Here, he sold clothing, boots, and blankets to northbound prospectors. Filson's products, crafted from wool sourced from the company's mills, were so dependable that they came with a "lifetime guarantee," solidifying their reputation for quality.

Following the waning of the gold rush, Filson diversified into making clothing for fishing and hunting. However, their gear for the forestry industry, including thick, woolen jackets with ample pockets, remains their best known item, with the Mackinaw Cruiser, patented in 1914, becoming the quintessential attire of the lumberjack.

The Engineered Garments North Western Shirt pays tribute to Filson's enduring legacy, exuding rugged durability. Modeled after a Filson popover shirt, it features a distinctive pocket arrangement. In addition to the storage pocket on the left arm, the front boasts four flap pockets, three evenly spaced, with the fourth seamlessly sewn onto the placket. This hidden pocket conceals one of the buttons, creating a discreet side pocket accessible from the side. On the back, two darts facilitate a full range of motion, and a yoke loop allows for convenient hanging.

The shirt's generous proportions enable it to serve as both a shirt and a jacket, and the banded collar simplifies layering. For the Fall Winter 2023 season, Engineered Garments offers this item in Heavy Twill, Heavy Cotton, and French Twill, aligning with Filson's tradition of heavyweight fabrics.

C.C. Filson played a pivotal role in shaping the image of American outdoor gear. Designer Daiki Suzuki celebrates this heritage through a contemporary lens with the Engineered Garments North Western Shirt.