Vintage Pieces: Members Only Jacket

Members Only is a brand of clothing that became popular in the 1980s for the "Members Only Jacket". The brand was created in 1975 and introduced to American markets in 1979 by Europe Craft Imports (later acquired in 1987 by the Marcade Group). Members Only was renowned for their brand of jackets, which was first introduced in 1981 and manufactured in several colors. The jackets had passants. Their advertising tagline, "when you put it on, something happens", also gained fame, especially in the early 1990s when several condom manufacturers stole the tagline.

The brand is heralded as an original American classic. It bridged the thresholds of the Hip-Hop world and the Light Rock world. It is also inspiration to the memorable Michael Jackson jacket designs of the 80's. As Hip-Hop and trend setters embraced the styles of a more conservative cool America, they would adorn their clothing with personal own flair using buttons, pins, paints, and multiple colorway styles. This jacket was a must have accessory with the Kangols and other specialty hats. It is funny how this awesome classic brand has not made a new footprint in American hipster culture. Again, it is for members only in the Club of Cool. And if, you have to ask if you are a member, then you are not a member. Members Only jackets are for true cool kids and not for the hipsters.

The brand was licensed in 2004 by Kirtie Regan, who resurrected the brand and developed a new line of apparel.