Avirex began as a purveyor of authentic flight jackets and rugged apparel that paid homage to the brave aviators of yesteryear. By the 1980s, the company became renowned for re-issuing the iconic A-2 flight jacket for the U.S. Air Force, a project that solidified its status as a leader in military-themed outerwear. Today, Avirex’s vintage leather and bomber jackets from the ’80s and ’90s are highly sought after by collectors, particularly for their impeccable craftsmanship and timeless designs.

Throughout the decades, Avirex has retained its aviation roots while catering to diverse markets, balancing the needs of both civilians and military enthusiasts. Their distinct logos and tags have evolved over time, reflecting a storied history of innovation and style. From the “Civilian & Military Tailors” logo of the ’80s to the bold “AVX” branding of the 2010s, each iteration tells a tale of creativity and reinvention.

Whether you’re seeking the bold leather jackets that made hip-hop legends take notice or the classic bombers that celebrate the daring spirit of aviators, Avirex remains a symbol of quality and authenticity. Dive into this piece to uncover the fascinating history behind Avirex’s logos, tags, and the journey that transformed the brand into an international icon.

FW21 Avirex Campaign

How to tell if Avirex is vintage from the logo

Each decade brought with it a new iteration that reflected both the brand’s military-inspired origins and its foray into contemporary fashion. From the “Civilian & Military Tailors” logo of the ’80s that emphasized Avirex’s dual market appeal, to the bold “AVX” emblem of the 2010s that marked a modernized approach to their signature designs, these logos are a testament to Avirex’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. Whether you’re a collector hunting for authentic vintage pieces or simply fascinated by Avirex’s iconic aviation aesthetic, each logo reveals a unique chapter in the brand’s rich history.

Avirex Civilian & Military Tailors 1980s Avirex logo

• This logo was used prominently in the 1980s, emphasizing the brand’s aviation and military roots.
• The tagline reflects the dual nature of Avirex, catering to both civilian and military markets.
• This version often appeared on tags with a focus on flight jackets and military-inspired apparel.

Avirex with Wings and Star 1990s Avirex logo

• This design, often seen in the 1990s, includes an aviation-inspired motif of wings and a star, reinforcing the flight jacket identity.
• The star symbol has been associated with Avirex’s focus on military-inspired fashion, and the wings suggest flight and freedom.

Avirex LTD Est. 1975 2000s Avirex logo

• Used in the early 2000s, this circular logo reflects the brand’s legacy with “Est. 1975” and incorporates elements like wings, a star, and text signatures.
• It marks a return to the brand’s origins while expanding its influence into contemporary casual wear.

AVX Avirex Dept.  2010s Avirex logo

• Emerging in the 2010s, this modernized logo uses bold, large “AVX” lettering with a star-and-wing motif on top.
• It reflects a renewed approach to the brand’s military themes, emphasizing a department or division structure in the design language.

How to tell if Avirex is vintage from the tags

The tags that adorn Avirex apparel have not only served a functional purpose but have also narrated the brand’s evolving journey through the decades. In the 1980s, Avirex tags emphasized their aviation and military roots with references to “Type A-2” and “Armed Forces Manufacturer,” often printed in military-style lettering. The 1990s saw the tags shift to wider rectangular designs with bold “Avirex” logos, sometimes accompanied by manufacturing details like “Made in USA” or “Made in Korea.

As we entered the 2000s, Avirex tags incorporated more loop-style designs while highlighting the brand’s expanded “Avirex LTD” identity. Meanwhile, the 2010s introduced high-contrast tags that celebrated Avirex’s legacy with slogans like “A Standard of Excellence Since 1975,” reflecting a blend of modern style with heritage motifs. Throughout each era, these tags have captured the essence of Avirex’s brand identity, providing collectors with valuable clues about their garments’ origins and authenticity.

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1980s vintage Avirex tags

• Tags often feature military-style lettering and references to “Type A-2” or other military specifications.
• Common mentions include “Authentic Avirex Flight Shirts” and “Armed Forces Manufacturer.
• Labels like “Certificate of Authenticity” may appear, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to quality.

1990s vintage Avirex tags

• Wider rectangular tags are more prominent, often with bold, blocky “Avirex” logos.
• Many tags include “Made in USA” or “Made in Korea,” indicating manufacturing origin.
• Patches for “Type A-2” and other military-inspired references remain, but new lines like “Avirex Adventure” start to appear.

2000s vintage Avirex tags

• Emphasis on military or aviation themes persists, with logos that may include star or eagle motifs.
• More loop-style tags begin to emerge, and tags like “Avirex LTD” indicate brand expansion.
• Letter sizing remains consistent across various models.

2010s vintage Avirex tags

• Modern tags often feature high-contrast designs with logos and manufacturing details.
• Tags emphasize “A Standard of Excellence Since 1975,” maintaining the aviation heritage.
• Newer production locations like Indonesia or Vietnam appear, reflecting global manufacturing.