Brand Profile: Norman Porter - A Philadelphia Company

Brand Profile: Norman Porter – A Philadelphia Company

Posted February 11, 2013

Philadelphia is not only known for it’s rich history, but also it’s culture. A culture that once included many factories and garment manufacturers has since disappeared leaving Philadelphia with a void, and old-fashioned garment makers like Norman Porter is filling this void. A three man denim and leather goods operation run by denim lovers Michael and David Stampler and John Mahaffey, Norman Porter makes simple, well-made, no-frill, heritage inspired products that are built to last a lifetime.

They offer one cut of denim, available in American and Japanese selvage denim ranging from 12 oz. to 16 oz. and leather wallets and belts made custom. All their products are made in a small workshop by the three of them, no one else. There are no factories or employees, just three hardworking individuals who make amazing products the old fashioned way. Each pair of denim is made individually using a collection of vintage sewing machines they have collected over the years. The fact that they are meticulous about details is easily recognized in their jeans. Each handmade pair is filled with details like beautiful chain stitch hems, hickory stripe pocket bags, and hand hammered rivets, to name a few.

You can learn more at Norman Porter’s website and blog or read an interview with the guys at philly.com.

Pictures: Norman Porter.

Norman Porter, North America

Wesley Scott

A student at Temple University in Philadelphia, Wesley Scott grew up in Delaware skateboarding in denim, the only fabric tough enough to stand the harsh wear and tear. Once he discovered how raw denim fades he was instantly hooked. His favourite brand is Philly’s own locally produced Norman Porter yet it’s that one pair of jeans he made himself from scratch he’s most proud of. Wesley’s dream is to launch his own product line of American-made garments under the Scott Supply Co. name.