3 women getting ready in bathroom

Give Sustainably: Shop the 2024 Holiday Gift Guide2024 Holiday Gift Guide

Cotton | The Fabric of Our Lives
Back to News
Cotton Partner Banner 2 desktop hammies

Small Shop, Big Cotton Finds: Meet Hammies

Small Shop, Big Cotton Finds: Meet Hammies

Grant, founder of the brand Hammies, wore the vintage OP shorts for many years and always had people taking interest in them. He thought that if someone or some brand didn’t bring them back soon, it would be up to him. And thus – Hammies was born in the spring of 2017! Grant’s goal for his shop is to bring back lost and forgotten styles from 1960-80s beach culture. If you’re looking for retro, unique pieces that will be sure to make a statement, look no further than Hammies.

“We are committed to using natural fibers because we want to minimize the impact that Hammies has on the environment, and we want our products to be as authentic to their vintage counterparts as possible while being breathable, comfortable and stylish”

When we asked Grant why he includes so much cotton in his product assortment, he shared that, “there was a time in recent history when all clothes were made of natural fibers such as cotton, wool, or silk. Synthetic fibers are very useful for messy situations but they’re also very messy to manufacture and dispose of.” He added that, “all of our products are made of cotton and natural fibers except for our swimwear (our trunks are still made with 50% cotton).” We think it’s admirable how committed Grant is to choosing natural fibers, especially as a way to preserve vintage style and history. We asked him to elaborate on this goal and he shared that, “We are committed to using natural fibers because we want to minimize the impact that Hammies has on the environment, and we want our products to be as authentic to their vintage counterparts as possible while being breathable, comfortable and stylish.” When your fashion choices can also be eco-conscious, we think that’s a win-win. When it comes to the iconic Hammies shorts, which are the cornerstone of Grant’s brand, he found that the benefits of using stretch corduroy (98% cotton, 2% elastic) in his products includes the perfect amount of stretch to avoid tearing. When fashion, comfort, and function can come together, it's an ideal harmony.

By taking a closer look at Grant’s collections, you will notice that they clearly fuse fashion with an active beach and skating lifestyle. Grant grew up in California and, “is obsessed with all things from the 1960-80s, and especially obsessed with early California surf and skate culture. This time period was revolutionary in so many ways.” After finding inspiration for his products from old photos of skateboarders and roller skaters wearing the Hammies style of shorts in Venice Beach, he has been encouraged to seed the shorts “to likeminded people in those communities, and the shorts are making a comeback!” With such a fun activity like roller skating, it’s great that he has revitalized the sport’s roots and brought that energy back to the community and culture.

"Hammies is designed and made with moving in mind"

Speaking of roller skating, Grant let us know that he “took up roller skating because of Hammies,” and that he “basically takes up sports that fit well with the Hammies vibe.” He also enjoys surfing, rock climbing, skiing and even paragliding in Hammies! With the versatility of his cotton products, it’s great that he can rely on them for any and all sports. We asked Grant if he thinks it’s possible to be comfortable, stylish, and active all at the same time, and he remarked that “athleisure has proven that it’s in fact possible.” We agree! While Grant is not a fan of the traditional athleisure look, he said, “Hammies is designed and made with moving in mind. So, in my humble opinion, Hammies is the tried-and-true athleisure.” We love that interpretation!

To wrap things up, Grant exclaimed, “Do I feel comfortable and confident when I’m wearing my Hammies? Always!” And we think you should too! Check out Hammies in store or online here, and rock that vintage skating look, in cool, versatile cotton.