Best Company, an iconic Italian fashion label, first captured the hearts of consumers in the 1970s with its distinctive vision brought to life by designer Olmes Carretti. Known for its imaginative use of embroidered sweatshirts, bright colors, and distinctive motifs, the brand became a beloved staple among the youth subculture of Paninari in Italy. These middle-class teens flocked to cafés and panini bars in Milan, showcasing their vibrant, logo-heavy attire from Best Company alongside other high-fashion brands. The Paninaro aesthetic, with its playful mix of colors and commitment to quality, spread across Italy and eventually reached global cult status.

Revived in 2017 with the “Forever Young” campaign by Oliviero Toscani, the brand’s relaunch honored its heritage while speaking to a new generation. The label’s timeless appeal draws on its rich legacy, merging classic designs with a fresh, modern outlook that resonates with today’s fashion enthusiasts. Known for bold graphics, premium fabrics, and a blend of leisure and sophistication, Best Company successfully marries nostalgia with contemporary relevance.

With a reputation for combining free-spirited design and timeless values, Best Company remains steadfast in its philosophy of inclusivity, quality, and creativity. The distinctive pine tree emblem and signature cursive script of the logo serve as enduring symbols of the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. From sweatshirts to stationery, the brand embodies a lifestyle of movement, authenticity, and dedication to preserving both nature and creative expression.

This blog will guide you through the tell-tale signs of identifying vintage Best Company garments, from the recognizable tree emblem to the evolution of the brand’s tags. By understanding these nuances, you’ll gain insight into the distinctive legacy of Best Company, whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of vintage fashion.

How to tell if Best Company is vintage from the logo

Best Company is renowned for its heritage in high-quality casual fashion, particularly knitwear. While the logo has seen subtle changes over the years, the company has maintained a recognizable and distinct brand identity.

Here’s how to identify vintage Best Company pieces based on the evolution of the logo.

Struggling with vintage tags or labels? Submit a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you identify them!

1970s to now Best Company logo

• The logo includes the recognizable tree emblem alongside the words “Best Company.”
• The text is cursive, with “Best” appearing above “Company,” separated by a horizontal line that connects to the tree emblem.
• The logo colors vary but usually feature a contrast between the emblem and the text.
• The tree emblem is a unique, stylized symbol that remains consistent throughout the years, helping to maintain brand identity.
• The trademark symbol ® typically appears near the tree, highlighting the brand’s distinctiveness.

1970s to now Best Company logo

How to tell if Best Company is vintage from the tags

Best Company, a brand that became synonymous with quality knitwear, emerged in the 1980s with an eye-catching
aesthetic that fused bright colors, whimsical motifs, and a commitment to craftsmanship. Its popularity was bolstered by
the creative designs of Olmes Carretti, who played a pivotal role in shaping its legacy. Over the years, Best Company tags
have evolved to reflect both the brand’s heritage and its modern sensibilities, making them valuable markers for vintage enthusiasts.

The following guide outlines distinctive features of Best Company’s vintage tags across various decades.
From the iconic “designer Olmes Carretti” labels to the more modern iterations that echo a nostalgic past, each era’s tags offer insights into the evolution of this storied brand.

1990s vintage Best Company tags

• Rectangular or square tags, often in navy or black, with white or colored text.
• Use of slogans like “Since 1986” and descriptors such as “Surf Team.”
• Logos include the pine tree, “Best Company” script, and sailing motifs.
• Some tags include specific quality assurance messages like “The Authentic Guaranteed.”

1990s Best Company tags

2000s vintage Best Company tags

• More modern look, often incorporating darker backgrounds and colorful text.
• Still prominently features “designer Olmes Carretti” and bright color combinations.
• Size information is included directly on the main label or on a separate smaller tag.
• Loop tags introduced, allowing for more streamlined branding.

2000s Best Company tags

2010s vintage Best Company tags

• Tags often carry a minimalist design with simple lettering and logos.
• Logos continue to feature the distinctive pine tree and “Best Company” script.
• Layouts have evolved to become more streamlined and professional, with slogans like “Since 1986.”
• Black backgrounds with white lettering are common, giving a modern aesthetic.

2010s Best Company tags