Ben Davis (clothing)
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Ben Davis is a U.S. based work clothing line. It was founded by its namesake in 1935.
Company founder Benjamin Franklin Davis' grandfather Jacob Davis was instrumental in the creation of the original Levi's Jeans. Despite absolutely no advertising Ben Davis is very popular amongst many music related subcultures, especially West Coast rappers. The clothing is very popular among Chicano and "cholo" youth culture. Ben Davis shirts have been shown in the 1992 "Fuck Wit Dre Day" video from the artist Dr. Dre, and the Beastie Boys, a New York based hip-hop outfit, have mentioned the brand in their music. Chicano rapper Lil' Rob has mentioned Ben Davis clothing in his songs. Ice Cube mentions Ben Davis in his song "Ghetto Vet" on his War and Peace Vol. 1 album. He also wears a Ben Davis shirt on his "Friday" music video.
Ben Davis is run by his son Frank, who was interviewed in a 1995 Grand Royal magazine article.
The iconic logo of the brand is a smiling gorilla which has been said to be the inspiration for the xlarge clothing logo, also a gorilla.
Originally, and up until comparatively recently the tags on Ben Davis items boasted "Union Made Plenty Tough" although this has now been changed to "USA Made Plenty Tough" as they had a dispute with the union workers[1]. As of Dec 2004, the workers are unionized[2].
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After remixing the Ben Davis work-inspired brand Fifth Sun obtained the license as t-shirt apparel licensee for the Ben Davis Co. The Ben Davis recipe is a combination of current, brand name inspired, high quality art with the ability to instantly react to market trends and demands. The new Ben Davis line created by Fifth Sun is designed to communicate a message of working class chic and urban credibility. The new Ben Davis product line currently ranges from t-shirts to hoodies.
Ben Davis is well known for being a core work wear brand and its urban culture appeal. Ben Davis will continue to build awareness in brand driven niche urban street wear markets such as hip-hop, action sports and designer fashion. Ben Davis prides itself on its genuine support and respect for all loyal customers, trendsetters, entertainers and celebrities. Ben Davis inspires the working class with this message through its support of entertainment industry personalities and action sports athletes.
Ben Davis is available at Zumiez, Tilly's, Workman's, PacSun, Urban Outfitters, and specialty boutiques nationwide. For more information please email info@5sun.com or add Ben Davis at www.myspace.com/bendavisbrand
