Crescent Down Works: A Legacy of Quality and Craftsmanship
I first visited Crescent Down Works in November 2015 on a trip to see friends whom I had worked with over a summer spent in the outerwear design team at another well-known Seattle-based brand. Having discovered Crescent Down Works at Dick’s Edinburgh I got in contact with the owner’s Andrew and Uli to see if I could coordinate a factory visit to coincide with my trip.
I was lucky to meet with Crescent Down Works Founder, Anne Michelson. Anne was hired by Eddie Bauer in the late 1960s to set up their first ever down testing laboratory. Anne was a pioneer in her field and over the years she contributed to the down-filled industry with her research and testing devices.
Anne welcomed me for a cup of tea and a tour of the factory. Back then it was on East Pike Street in the bustling creative neighbourhood of Capitol Hill. We went through the archive trying many pieces on, delving into the process of picking fabrics and design details; inspiring me to purchase my very own Crescent Down Works Down Sweater in a 60/40 Cotton.
Nine years have passed and my Down Sweater is still going strong, keeping me comfortable and cosy on long-haul flights and seeing me through many cold Scottish winters. In August of 2024 I was back once again to Seattle, this time for a friends wedding. After eating the best bagel of my life on the front stoop of Mt. Bagel, (I recommend the Everything Bagel with Spicy Scallion Cream Cheese), I decided to make one more pitstop before starting the road trip to Idaho, squeezing in a quick visit to Crescent Down Works in their new home.
Still a family run business to this day I was able to meet Annie, Anne’s daughter who oversees the business at their new location in SoDo with a team of long standing employees.
The Autumn Winter pieces in production were bagged up and ready to ship off to their select stockists across the globe. We were shown iconic pieces made for film and television and some newer parka styles in development for next season. I was pleased to recognise fabrics from prestigious UK mills, Brisbane Moss and Halley Stevensons which are used in their 50 Year Anniversary Collection.
This season the Dick’s buying team have selected The Classico Parka and The Down Sweater in a water-resistant, recycled nylon ripstop in Rust, a pleasing nostalgic orange tone.
The Italian Vest is fabricated in Black Streak-free Nylon for a sleek layering piece and in a more rugged Navy Ripstop.
As we move into the cooler months, what better time to highlight these pieces which keep us warm on our outdoor adventures. Whether that’s simply walking the dog, a hiking trip with friends, or your next cool-climate holiday. These garments are lightweight, built to last and designed with practicality, and comfort in mind. Each Crescent Down Works garment is hand made with pride in The Pacific North West, using high quality materials, and ethically harvested goose down.
The business has supported a community of designers, sewers and pattern-cutters over the years. The head sewer Lam has over 30 years of experience - a true master of her craft. When you buy a Crescent Down Works you're not just buying a great piece of outerwear, you're buying into a legacy and supporting a community of people who care about quality goods made in the USA.
Mentioned: Crescent Down Works | Brisbane Moss | Halley Stevensons | Pendleton | Mt. Bagel
