Harley Davidson has always been more than just a motorcycle brand; it has crafted a cultural legacy, particularly through its influence on motorcycle fashion. From its inception, Harley Davidson has been synonymous with freedom, rebellion, and individuality, traits that are meticulously woven into its clothing line. In the early days of motorcycling, riders donned whatever was available—work clothes, military uniforms, or even formal wear. As motorcycles gained popularity, a distinctive biker fashion emerged, with leather jackets, boots, and gloves becoming practical yet iconic choices for riders. These items, often adorned with patches and pins, quickly became the uniform of a subculture.

Harley Davidson played a pivotal role in shaping this biker fashion. The brand’s leather jackets, introduced in 1928, were designed for durability and functionality, quickly becoming a staple in biker wardrobes. Over the decades, Harley Davidson’s clothing has evolved, reflecting changes in fashion trends while remaining true to its roots. Each piece is designed to embody the spirit of the open road, capturing the essence of the biker lifestyle. The Harley Davidson logo, prominently displayed on their garments, has become a symbol of quality and timeless style, revered by bikers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its impact on fashion, Harley Davidson represents a way of life for many. The brand fosters a sense of community and adventure, with owners often participating in group rides, rallies, and events that celebrate their shared passion for motorcycles. These gatherings are more than social events; they are a testament to the camaraderie and spirit that define the Harley Davidson community. The brand also offers a range of services and resources, from rider training programs to maintenance tips, enhancing the overall experience of owning a Harley.

Identifying vintage Harley Davidson clothing involves understanding the evolution of its tags and logos. The logo has undergone several transformations, each indicative of its era, from the simple designs of the early 1900s to the iconic Bar & Shield introduced in the 1960s. Similarly, tags from different decades offer clues to the garment’s age, with designs ranging from the bold orange and black tags of the 1980s to the more refined and detailed tags of the 2000s. These elements not only help in dating the clothing but also in appreciating the rich history and legacy of the brand.

In essence, Harley Davidson has transcended its origins to become a symbol of a lifestyle, with its clothing line reflecting the evolution of biker fashion and culture. Whether through the rugged leather jackets of the past or the contemporary casual wear of today, Harley Davidson continues to capture the spirit of freedom and individuality, making a lasting impact on the world of fashion and beyond.

70s Harley Davidson Motorcycle TV Commercial

How to tell if Harley Davidson is vintage from the logo

Harley Davidson has a rich history that is reflected in the evolution of its iconic logo. Over the years, the logo has undergone several transformations, each indicative of the era it represents. Identifying the vintage of a Harley Davidson product can often be achieved by examining the logo used.

1910 to 1953 Harley Davidson logo

• The early Harley Davidson logo featured a simple, elegant design with the text “Harley Davidson” in a serif font.
• This logo often incorporated decorative elements like wings or shields.
• It emphasized the brand’s American roots with the phrase “American Made”.

1953 to 1965 Harley Davidson logo

• The logo evolved to commemorate the 50th anniversary with a distinct “50 Years” marking.
• It had a more streamlined and modern look compared to the previous era.
• Still maintained the serif font, but included additional text like “American Made”.

1965 to 2003 Harley Davidson logo

• The iconic Bar & Shield design was introduced, which became synonymous with the brand.
• The design featured the words “Harley Davidson” prominently in the center.
• This era saw the logo in various forms, including some with a chrome finish.

2003 Harley Davidson logo

• To celebrate the 100th anniversary, a special centennial logo was created.
• The logo included wings and the years “1903 – 2003”.
• It emphasized the heritage and longevity of the brand.

2003 to now Harley Davidson logo

• The current logo is an advancement of the Bar & Shield design, maintaining its classic look.
• It often features a bold, orange and black color scheme.
• The design remains largely unchanged, symbolizing the timeless nature of the brand.

How to tell if Harley Davidson is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Harley Davidson tags over the decades provides insights into the brand’s rich history and the shifting trends in design and manufacturing. From the classic bold logos to the modern tags featuring advanced materials and designs, each era reflects Harley Davidson’s commitment to quality and style. Here’s how to identify vintage Harley Davidson garments from their tags across different decades.

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1980s vintage Harley Davidson tags

• Features a prominent “Harley-Davidson Motor Cycles” shield logo.
• Tags often have a black background with bold orange and white lettering.
• Some tags include additional elements like the American eagle, symbolizing freedom and heritage.

1990s vintage Harley Davidson tags

• Continues the use of the iconic shield logo with slight design refinements.
• Introduction of size indicators on the tags, usually in the bottom corner.
• Some tags incorporate the phrase “Genuine MotorClothes” to emphasize authenticity.

2000s vintage Harley Davidson tags

• Modernized look with darker, more refined tag colors.
• Increased use of separate size tags or integrated size information.
• Continued emphasis on the Harley-Davidson shield logo, often paired with phrases like “An American Legend.”

2010s vintage Harley Davidson tags

• Diversified designs with various materials and tag layouts.
• Introduction of more detailed and colorful tags, reflecting modern branding strategies.
• Tags may include more information about the garment, such as fabric content and care instructions.

How to tell if Harley Davidson is vintage from the print date

In addition to examining logos and tags, another effective way to determine the vintage of a Harley Davidson t-shirt is by looking for the print date. Often located on the lower portion of the graphic print, this date can provide a precise indication of when the shirt was manufactured. Here’s how you can identify the era of a Harley Davidson t-shirt using the print date:

Example of a Print Date

The image below shows a Harley Davidson t-shirt from 1988, identified by the print date:

Steps to Identify the Print Date:

1. Locate the Print Date: The print date is usually found near the bottom of the graphic on the t-shirt. Look for a small text that includes the year and sometimes the manufacturer.
2. Check for the Manufacturer’s Name: Alongside the year, you might also find the name of the company that produced the t-shirt. For example, in the image above, the print states “© 1988 Harley Davidson, Inc. Mfd. by Speed Limit Seventy.”
3. Verify Authenticity: Ensure that the print date and manufacturer’s details are not smudged or altered. Authentic vintage Harley Davidson t-shirts will have clear and precise printing.
4. Cross-Reference with Logo and Tag Designs: Combine the information from the print date with the design of the logo and tag to confirm the era. For instance, a t-shirt with an orange and black tag from the 1980s should match the print date if it reads “1988.”

Importance of Print Dates

The inclusion of print dates on Harley Davidson t-shirts not only helps in identifying the garment’s age but also adds to its authenticity and historical value. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out these details to ensure they are purchasing genuine vintage pieces.