Bobby Bibs
Bobby Bibs
If you’re from Boston, or a vintage nerd, you’ve likely heard of Bobby Garnett, “Bobby from Boston.” Heavy hitting costume designers, Ralph (Lauren), Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford (to name a few), came to see Bobby and shop from his legendary collection in Lynn, MA. I’ll never forget the day I nervously told Bobby about the efforts behind this shop—especially our approach to the archeology of our products. I was truly floored when he expressed his support, and I am so grateful to have learned so much about workwear esoterica from our conversations (sidebar: if you ever have a chance to come to our R.I. shop, I hope you’ll ask me what Bobby thought about a storied workwear brand from around the corner, now owned by J.Crew).
Years ago, on a visit to Bobby’s shop in the South End, I came across a pair of waxed cotton US Army bibs—Bobby carefully explained why he thought they were so interesting, noting that the had never come across a piece like it, and didn’t really understand why the Army would have made them. He told me that he had them for quite a while, but nobody had expressed interest. I grabbed two pair from the dozen or so that were on the rack, tucked one into our archive and quickly sold the other pair in the shop. They became a bit of a joke around the office because of the number of people who inquired about when we would have more.
Enter our favorite collaborator, Ann Richardson, the archivist at Dickies and workwear aficionada, who was keen to check them out. We took our time considering how we might make a modern version that we would think of as an indispensable wardrobe staple—we toyed with various patterns, sampled all kinds of natural textiles, and tweaked various strap designs (strap knots are cute until you have to use loo/remove a layer!). We removed all the superfluous noise that typically plagues workwear until we landed on a version we think is unbeatable.
To honor a legacy with the kind of garments he cherished, and in remembrance of a beloved soul who taught us so much about the meaning of treasure, we are so proud to introduce the Bobby Bib.
Adjustable buckled straps, side thigh pocket with flap, back pocket.
Two inseams (28 and 30 in.) —given the rise & adjustable straps, this range of inseams works for most. The model pictured is a size S/M wearing a M and is 5’10.’’ (uncuffed, the bottom hits her boot)
Adjustable side ties perfect for layering & playing with proportions — especially if you’re expecting. Long enough for bows or slip knots-your choice.
Reinforced knees.
Washed, 100% cotton, imported 10 oz fisher stripe and olive 9 oz herringbone twill.
Made in Chicago IL.
See below for sizing info and details.
This piece is true to size, but here are a few sizing tips:
If you’re between sizes and prefer things to fit more tailored, order a size down.
If you typically fit XS or XL and are unsure if the sizing would work, please don’t hesitate to reach out to talk through points of measure. Size inclusivity has always been a priority here and the only way to know we aren’t meeting demand is to hear from you!
A note on the waist measurement below - we measure flat across the side ties, which tend to hit most at the natural waist. This measurement is much larger than the usual because of the envelope construction for our side ties.