Ep 13. Brooks Brothers

John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 13 titled "Brooks Brothers" is an exploration of America's oldest and most iconic men's clothing brand. In this episode, Ratzenberger travels to the Brooks Brothers headquarters in New York City to learn about the history of the company and its enduring influence on American men's fashion.

The episode begins with Ratzenberger meeting with the current CEO of Brooks Brothers, Claudio Del Vecchio. Del Vecchio discusses the company's long and rich history, which dates back to 1818 when the first Brooks Brothers store opened in New York City. Over the course of the past two centuries, Brooks Brothers has become one of the most respected and innovative names in fashion, constantly pushing the boundaries of style and design.

Ratzenberger then takes a tour of the company's flagship store on Madison Avenue, where he learns about the various types of clothing and accessories that Brooks Brothers offers. There are traditional suits made from high-quality fabrics, as well as sportswear, casual wear, and accessories such as ties, belts, and watches. Ratzenberger is particularly impressed with the attention to detail that goes into every item produced by Brooks Brothers, from the craftsmanship of the tailors to the quality of the materials used in each garment.

Next, Ratzenberger visits the company's factories in Massachusetts and North Carolina, where he gets an up-close look at the manufacturing process for some of Brooks Brothers' most popular items. He is amazed by the precision and skill of the workers who create each piece of clothing by hand. From cutting the fabric to stitching the seams, every step of the process is done with care and attention to detail. Ratzenberger also learns about the company's commitment to sustainability and ethical labor practices, which are core values at Brooks Brothers.

Throughout the episode, Ratzenberger speaks with various people who are involved in the Brooks Brothers brand, from designers to store employees to satisfied customers. He hears stories about the role that Brooks Brothers has played in American history, such as the fact that Abraham Lincoln wore a Brooks Brothers coat to his second inauguration. He also learns about the company's involvement in charity work and its dedication to giving back to local communities.

As the episode comes to a close, Ratzenberger reflects on the enduring legacy of Brooks Brothers and what it means to be "made in America." He notes that, despite the challenges of the modern fashion industry, Brooks Brothers continues to thrive and innovate, staying true to its roots while also adapting to changing trends. He concludes that the company's commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and tradition is what sets it apart and makes it a true American icon.

In conclusion, John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 13 is a fascinating look at one of America's most beloved and enduring clothing brands. Through interviews, tours, and personal interactions, Ratzenberger gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the history, production, and innovation of Brooks Brothers. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply interested in American history and culture, this episode is sure to inform and entertain.