Cotton Traders, a British clothing company based in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, was founded in 1987 by former England national rugby union team captains Fran Cotton and Steve Smith. This dynamic duo embarked on a journey to create a brand that specialized in high-quality leisurewear, starting with rugby shirts and expanding into a comprehensive range of casual clothing, lingerie, footwear, and accessories. The brand quickly gained popularity for its commitment to quality and timeless designs, becoming a staple in British casual wear. Over the years, Cotton Traders has evolved into a multi-channel retailer, offering its collections to customers worldwide.

The company’s origins trace back to a modest setup next to Altrincham railway station, where Cotton Traders began by supplying rugby shirts via mail order. Their innovative approach, using advertisements in Sunday newspapers, rapidly grew the brand’s presence, achieving an annual turnover of £2 million within just two years. This initial success allowed them to expand their product offerings to include men’s and women’s casual clothing, footwear, and accessories. By the early 1990s, Cotton Traders had secured license agreements to produce replica jerseys for some of the world’s leading rugby national teams, further solidifying their reputation in the sports apparel market.

Throughout its history, Cotton Traders has maintained a strong connection to its rugby roots while expanding its reach and product line. The company has navigated various changes, including a significant ownership shift in 2014 when founders Fran Cotton and Steve Smith regained full control from clothing retailer Next. Today, Cotton Traders operates over 80 retail stores across the UK and provides international delivery services to more than 25 countries. Their enduring commitment to quality and heritage continues to resonate with customers, ensuring that Cotton Traders remains a beloved brand in the realm of casual and leisurewear.

How to tell if Cotton Traders is vintage from the logo

Cotton Traders has maintained a consistent brand appeal over the years, with a recognizable logo that has become synonymous with quality casual wear. The brand’s logo has undergone subtle changes, and these variations can help determine the era of a Cotton Traders product. Here’s a detailed look at the Cotton Traders logo through different periods to help you identify if your item is vintage.

1980s to now Cotton Traders logo

• The Cotton Traders logo from the 1980s to the present features the brand name in a bold, cursive font.
• The word “Cotton” is prominently displayed in red, with a swooping underline extending from the letter ‘n’.
• Below “Cotton,” the word “TRADERS” is written in a smaller, capitalized, and sans-serif black font.
• The overall design is clean and modern, yet it retains a timeless quality that has helped maintain brand recognition.

1980s to now Cotton Traders logo

How to tell if Cotton Traders is vintage from the tags

Cotton Traders, known for its quality casual and outdoor clothing, has undergone various changes in its branding and tag designs over the decades. Identifying the era of a Cotton Traders garment can often be accomplished by examining the tags. Here is a guide to help you determine the vintage of your Cotton Traders clothing based on the tags.

Having trouble with your tags? Submit them on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you identify those vintage labels!

1990s vintage Cotton Traders tags

• Bold lettering with a clear “Cotton Traders” logo.
• Often features a size indicator next to or below the main logo.
• Commonly used darker tag backgrounds with white or contrasting stitching.
• Occasional inclusion of additional symbols or graphics, such as sports equipment.

1990s Cotton Traders tags

2000s vintage Cotton Traders tags

• Introduction of more modern tag designs with varied color schemes.
• Consistent use of bold, clear lettering for the “Cotton Traders” logo.
• Size information often integrated directly into the main tag or on an adjacent smaller tag.
• Some tags featured additional decorative elements or symbols, maintaining a consistent branding aesthetic.

2000s Cotton Traders tags

2010s vintage Cotton Traders tags

• Modernized layouts with contemporary font styles for the “Cotton Traders” logo.
• Use of diverse colors and materials, including patriotic designs with flags.
• Size indicators are clearly marked, often on separate tags or within the main tag area.
• Continued use of distinctive and bold typography, ensuring brand recognition.

2010s Cotton Traders tags