Dalton, an iconic name in American fashion, has long been synonymous with luxury and quality, particularly in the realm of cashmere and fine knitwear. Founded in 1949 by Arthur Dery and Maurice Saltzman in Cleveland, Ohio, Dalton quickly established itself as a premier maker of cashmere sweaters and coordinating separates, including skirts, slacks, and blouses. The company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and elegant design made it a beloved brand among fashion enthusiasts and set the standard for American knitwear in the mid-20th century.
As Dalton grew, it expanded its offerings and introduced the James Kenrob trademark in 1959, under which it produced double knits in both wool and synthetic fibers. This move diversified the brand’s portfolio and catered to a broader audience. The 1980s marked a significant shift for Dalton as it ventured into the mid-priced sportswear market with labels such as Dalton Sport, Dalton Studio, and Lady Dalton. This period saw the brand adapting to changing fashion trends while still maintaining the high standards that had earned it a loyal following.
Despite its success and evolution, Dalton ceased operations in 1986. However, its legacy endures through the vintage market, where Dalton pieces are highly sought after for their timeless style and exceptional quality. Identifying genuine vintage Dalton garments often involves examining logos and tags, which have undergone several changes over the decades. These elements not only help date the pieces but also tell the story of a brand that left an indelible mark on American fashion.
How to tell if Dalton is vintage from the logo
Dalton, known for its luxurious knitwear and cashmere products, has undergone several logo transformations over the years. The evolution of Dalton’s logos reflects changes in design trends and branding strategies, making it easier to date vintage pieces based on the logo style. Below is a guide to identifying vintage Dalton logos from the images provided.
1950s to 1960s Dalton logo
- The logo features a script-style font for “Dalton,” which is curved and elegant.
- It includes an emblem to the left, resembling a stylized ‘D’ with a star inside, indicative of the era’s design sensibilities.
- The text “PURE IMPORTED CASHMERE” and “OF AMERICA” are included, emphasizing the brand’s quality and origin.
1950s to 1960s Dalton logo
1950s to 1980s Dalton logo
- This logo uses a more modern, sans-serif font compared to the earlier script style.
- The text is more streamlined and less decorative, reflecting the shift towards minimalist branding in the later decades.
- It maintains a simple and clean appearance, focusing on the brand name without additional embellishments.
1950s to 1980s Dalton logo
1980s Dalton logo
- The logo features a bold, blocky sans-serif font, with a distinct, solid appearance.
- The design is straightforward, with the word “DALTON” prominently displayed in all caps.
- This period marks a significant departure from earlier, more ornate designs, aligning with the 1980s trend of bold and simple corporate logos.
1980s Dalton logo
How to tell if Dalton is vintage from the tags
Dalton, a renowned brand known for its luxurious fabrics and timeless designs, has evolved its branding and tags over the decades. The tags have gone through significant changes, reflecting the brand’s journey and the fashion trends of each era. Here’s a guide to identifying vintage Dalton garments through their tags, highlighting the characteristics from different decades.
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1950s vintage Dalton tags
- Simple and elegant script with the brand name “Dalton.”
- Tags often feature “100% Virgin Cashmere” or similar fabric indicators.
- Labels may include additional information about the product’s quality and origin.
1950s Dalton tags
1960s vintage Dalton tags
- Continued use of elegant script, with a more streamlined design.
- Introduction of additional branding elements, such as “Dalton of America.”
- Often includes detailed fabric composition and care instructions.
1960s Dalton tags
1970s vintage Dalton tags
- Tags show a shift towards more modern fonts, maintaining a sophisticated look.
- Emphasis on “100% Pure Cashmere” or specific wool types like “Lamb’s Wool.”
- Tags often highlight the exclusivity and quality of the materials used.
1970s Dalton tags
1980s vintage Dalton tags
- Modernized logo design with a bold, streamlined font.
- Increased use of contrasting tag colors to highlight the brand name.
- Additional details about product lines, such as “Dalton Studio” or “365,” indicating different collections.
1980s Dalton tags
