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Reconstructed Through a Modern Interpretation, the Ancient American Work Brand "UNION HERCULES MADE"
Founded in 1886, the American department store "Sears, Roebuck and Company" operated the work brand "UNION HERCULES MADE" from 1908 until around 1965. It has gained considerable support among vintage fans in Japan as a collectible item.
This time, UNION HERCULES MADE is set to be reconstructed and released in Spring/Summer 2025 under the supervision of "Johnbull."
Johnbull, established in 1952 and based in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, is known as a longstanding brand that supported the era of domestic jeans. We spoke with Maria Salyukova from Johnbull Co., Ltd. about the domestic production background and the high quality of UNION HERCULES MADE items that are being produced.
An Updated Lineup of Vintage Items that Can Be Worn with a Modern Flair
Let's discuss the background of launching UNION HERCULES MADE anew from Johnbull, and touch on the brand's intended style."Johnbull operates about 12 brands. While each concept varies within the larger framework of denim, we noticed a lack of vintage-like work brands, which led us to take on UNION HERCULES MADE as a new initiative.
"We aim to incorporate iconic vintage elements but update them so that they can be worn with a contemporary style instead of merely reproducing them.
"By providing a rich range of sizes that are unisex and various wash types for color options, we will create a lineup suitable for people of different ages and styles."
UNION HERCULES MADE 2025 Spring/Summer Collection
Now, let's talk about the first collection from UNION HERCULES MADE, the Spring/Summer 2025 items.The lineup includes four styles: "Chore Jacket," "Overalls," "Denim Jacket," and "Work Pants." Please introduce each one in detail.
"The items are designed based on vintage styles and specifications from the 1950s to 1960s, embodying the essence of UNION HERCULES MADE while ensuring they are items that people want to wear now.
"Starting with the Chore Jacket, which represents the brand, we updated the silhouette to a modern one based on a 1950s design.
"Originally, it was worn by miners and railroad workers during the American Gold Rush, featuring a left chest pocket designed for a pocket watch and green color stitching on the triple stitches, reflecting its vintage lineage."
"Similar to the Chore Jacket, the Overalls are based on vintage design and specifications, featuring longer shoulder straps to allow for a silhouette that gathers slightly at the ankles when worn at the waist."
"The Denim Jacket is based on a design from the 1960s and features tucks on both front sides and double patch pockets typical of workwear.
"The 1960s version has an oversized collar and overly long pockets, so we reconstructed it to fit a more modern look."
Let’s take a look at the Work Pants alongside a vintage piece from the 1950s owned by Johnbull.
"The Work Pants feature details reminiscent of painter pants, but since the term 'painter pants' is a later designation, they are named Work Pants.
"The specifications, such as the pockets, are inspired by vintage designs. The left side has a hammer loop, while the pocket on the right was originally for storing spare candles used in the mines during the Gold Rush era.
"One of the distinctive features of UNION HERCULES MADE is the flap on the left back pocket.
"This detail was designed to prevent tools from falling out of the pocket during high-altitude work. It’s rare to find this type of back pocket design in work pants from the same era by other brands.
"The triple-stitching thread and bar tacks in green, which we also discussed with the Chore Jacket, are applied to both these Work Pants and the Overalls.
"Similar to the three styles, the stitching at the corners of the pockets is done in a rough manner, contributing to the vintage vibe from the 1950s.
"Taking unisex wear into consideration, the back pocket has been made slightly smaller, and the pattern has been carefully designed to ensure a beautiful silhouette when worn."
"The types of finishes vary by item, including 'non-wash' (rigid), 'used,' 'bleached,' and sun-faded 'fade,' creating a range of color variations. Additionally, there are items made from hickory stripe fabric, allowing for choices from up to five patterns.
"Another feature is that they are made from a lightweight 10-ounce fabric (except for the Denim Jacket), making them easy to wear. With this extensive selection of colors and sizes, I hope more people can enjoy denim through various silhouettes and styles."
The reconstruction of this well-known brand with its rich history was made possible by Johnbull, a professional with vast experience and knowledge in denim production and processing. I hope you have the chance to experience this quality in a free style.
PROFILE
Maria Salyukova
Johnbull Co., Ltd.
Executive Officer
Johnbull Press
Moy Store Director
Born in Russia and residing in Japan since the age of 13. Besides being the press representative for the denim brand Johnbull based in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, she also serves as the director of the concept store "Moy Store." She has a penchant for vintage fashion and interiors.
Instagram: @salyukovamaria
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