Crafting Your Unique Style: A Trucker Jacket Journey with Graziano & Gutiérrez
In the heart of Oaxaca, where tradition meets innovation, Alejandro Gutiérrez embarked on a journey that would redefine menswear through the lens of artisanal craftsmanship. His story began in 2016, when he landed at the Bautista Martinez family’s taller (Spanish for “workshop”) during an internship focused on textiles. The Martinez family, known for their mastery of handwoven fabrics, has utilized a fully analog pedal loom for generations—a complex machine that turns the arduous task of weaving into an art form. The fabrics they produce, traditionally used for tablecloths, pillowcases, and curtains, caught Gutiérrez’s imagination. He envisioned a new narrative: transforming these rich textiles into clothing that could be intimately experienced and adored, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Fast forward to 2020, amidst the global pandemic, Gutiérrez launched the brand Graziano & Gutiérrez. Cranking out workwear-inspired designs like trucker jackets and sturdy double-knee trousers—priced between $285 to $610—he utilized a home sewing machine set up in his spare bedroom. The brand emerged from a collaborative effort with his classmate Sam Graziano, who plays a consultative role in the design process. However, the day-to-day production, from cutting and sewing to logistics and promotion, is primarily a one-man show. Despite the brand’s humble beginnings, it quickly gained traction in the menswear media landscape. “That blew everything up,” says Gutiérrez, reflecting on the rapid rise in visibility that followed. Within months, his designs caught the eye of notable publications such as GQ, New York Magazine, Gear Patrol, and the Financial Times. High-profile figures like indie rocker Kevin Morby and celebrities Joe Jonas and Maluma expressed interest in his creations, further solidifying Graziano & Gutiérrez’s status in the fashion world.
The Workshop Experience: A Personal Touch
During a visit to Gutiérrez’s workshop located in the Ford Building, I was invited to partake in a unique experience: getting fitted for a custom garment. This personal touch is a hallmark of Graziano & Gutiérrez, where each piece is crafted to order, ensuring that every garment has a designated home before cutting the fabric. Gutiérrez’s designs evoke the structured rigidity of traditional workwear, reminiscent of brands like Carhartt and Levi’s, but they also incorporate the softness and texture of handwoven materials, creating a fresh aesthetic.
The studio is alive with the spirit of creativity, filled with sample garments that Gutiérrez tests by wearing around town or lends out for photo shoots. When I tried on a trucker jacket—his own distinct take on the classic Levi’s denim coat—I was struck by the color scheme: a vibrant firetruck red contrasted with a buttery yellow. The fabric felt soft and slouchy, yet the design maintained a flattering structure. “I love how things age,” Gutiérrez remarked as I flailed my arms to check the fit. He measured my arm, stating, “Twenty-five, 24-and-three-quarters,” before revealing that this particular jacket was the culmination of his college thesis project.
A Collaborative Design Process
What sets Graziano & Gutiérrez apart is the collaborative approach Gutiérrez embraces with each customer. Unlike most fashion brands, where the consumer is merely a passive participant, here, clients are engaged in the design process. As I browsed through the available fabrics, Gutiérrez emphasized the importance of personalization. “We talk about this ‘one-size-fits-all’ type of thing, right? But it’s not. Realistically, bodies are different, taste is different,” he explained. This philosophy allows for slight modifications to be made, such as shortening sleeve lengths, ensuring that each piece is tailored to the individual.
Despite the allure of scaling up through commercial retail partnerships—brands like Ssense and Mr Porter have expressed interest—Gutiérrez prefers to maintain control over his vision. The demands of mass production could compromise the artistry that defines Graziano & Gutiérrez. The brand’s one-at-a-time model intentionally slows growth, allowing for a focus on quality over quantity. This commitment to craftsmanship was evident during my visit as Gutiérrez tossed folded lengths of intricately patterned fabrics onto his workbench, each piece telling a story. From rich greens with variegated stripes to vibrant honey hues, the textiles spoke to the heritage of Oaxacan craftsmanship.
The Significance of Handwoven Fabrics
The fabrics used in Gutiérrez’s designs are not just materials; they are a testament to a rich cultural legacy. Handwoven textiles have been a part of Oaxacan culture for centuries, representing both tradition and innovation. Gutiérrez’s decision to incorporate these fabrics into contemporary menswear not only elevates the garments but also honors the artisans and techniques that have been passed down through generations. The process requires skill and patience, with each piece reflecting the artistry of the weavers who meticulously create them.
As we finalized the design for my custom jacket, Gutiérrez explained how he would create a patchwork composition to accommodate the larger patterns of the fabric. “It’s like lichen, mossy,” he remarked about the green fabric, a nod to the natural inspiration behind the design. The vision was clear: asymmetrical, everywhere—a nod to both modern aesthetics and traditional craftsmanship.
A Unique Identity in the Fashion World
In a world saturated with fast fashion, Graziano & Gutiérrez stands as a refreshing alternative. The brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices resonates with consumers increasingly seeking unique, meaningful clothing. Each piece is made to order, reducing waste and ensuring that every garment is crafted with intention. Gutiérrez’s approach to fashion reflects a broader movement within the industry toward conscious consumerism, where quality and storytelling take precedence over fleeting trends.
Returning a few weeks later to finalize my jacket, I witnessed the meticulous attention to detail that defines Graziano & Gutiérrez. Gutiérrez was busy adding bar tacks—thick, embroidery-like stitches that enhance the durability of the garment—while riveting the buttons with a press. As I tried on the finished product, he assessed the fit, patting down the shoulders and checking how the sleeves lay. The experience felt reminiscent of belonging to an exclusive community, akin to that of motorcycle club members or varsity athletes. He inscribed the date and production number on the tag: “1 of 1,” marking it as a unique piece crafted just for me.
Conclusion
Graziano & Gutiérrez represents more than just a clothing brand; it embodies a philosophy that celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Alejandro Gutiérrez’s journey from intern to founder illustrates the power of passion and creativity in redefining traditional textiles for a contemporary audience. As consumers increasingly seek meaningful connections with the products they purchase, brands like Graziano & Gutiérrez are paving the way for a new era of fashion—one that values quality, sustainability, and personal expression. Whether you’re drawn to the artistry of handwoven fabrics or the appeal of custom-made garments, Graziano & Gutiérrez offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of wearable art that tells a story.