The Dickies 874: More Than a TikTok Trend

Founded in 1922, they have a long history!

Ingrained in American culture, Dickies boasts a rich history as the go-to uniform for blue-collar workers and niche subcultures. But after going viral in 2021 on TikTok, they’ve found a new, younger, fashion-savvy audience. The Dickies 874 pants have fast become a wardrobe staple for a new generation.

The trend, tracing back, was kicked off by Madison Beer, who posted an image on her Instagram with the waistband of her 874s folded. Over the past year, the trendy look hasn’t subsided, picking up steam among a slew of TikTok creators with large followings.

via Instagram @madisonbeer

In the 2020s, most viral fashion moments have little substance, but that’s not the case with Dickies – they’re more than just a TikTok trend.

A Brief History
Founded in West Texas by EE ‘Colonel’ Dickie and CN Williamson, Dickies began its workwear journey selling denim overalls to farm workers. Their business was booming in its early years but experienced a lull due to the Great Depression by the late 1920s. Picking up in 1939, they were enlisted by the US Government to create 9 million military uniforms for World War II soldiers. After the war, Dickies continued their production of workwear for the masses as their brand presence grew throughout the United States. It wasn’t long before their garb became the supreme choice for tradespeople across all fifty states.

During the 1950s, Texans introduced the brand to punters on the Middle Eastern oil fields, allowing Dickies to become an international entity, expanding across Europe and the Middle East. The iconic 874 pant was born later in 1967 and was an instant hit with their community of loyal customers.

Sub-Cultural Involvement
Dickies have always been inclusive, readily available and an authentic part of everyday life, especially in America. This authenticity meant they became synonymous with certain subcultures, such as 90s Los Angeles skate. The 874 pants were always a favourite for skaters thanks to their durable nature and affordable price. Always cuffed at the hem, they’d be styled by draping over chunky shoes.

Hip-hop and street culture, going hand-in-hand with skate, also jumped on the Dickies train in the late 80s and early 90s. Rappers like Eazy-E, Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube began cementing their icon status during this period, and despite making millions, all wore Dickies pants, shorts and shirts regularly.

Throughout the 2010s, Dickies continued as a force to be reckoned with, remaining one of the world’s top workwear suppliers and a skate and streetwear must-have. Kanye West even wore a full Dickies look to the MET Gala in 2019!

with thanks to Getty Images

Cementing Their Legacy
The 2021 TikTok boom has proven mighty successful for the brand, allowing the 874 pants to be cemented as an icon in the pop-culture sphere. If you want to take part in the trending look, acquire a pair of Dickies 874 pants, make sure to size up so they’re baggy and fold down the waistband to reveal the branding on the inside. Wear them with a slightly cropped t-shirt or basic tank to really make those logos pop, or team with your rotation of vintage t-shirts and sweats for an iconic 90s fashion look.