Vintage circa 1986–1988 Abercrombie & Fitch Explorers Club crewneck sweatshirt featuring a Perth, Australia destination graphic.
Printed across the front with oversized white script “Perth” lettering, pink “Australia” text, and a black circular Abercrombie & Fitch Explorers Club / A&F Co. insignia. Great pastel aqua / seafoam color with a classic 1980’s athletic sweatshirt silhouette, V-inset crewneck, ribbed cuffs and waistband, and soft fleece interior.
Printed on a Made in USA Russell Athletic sweatshirt with the period red-and-blue Eagle R neck label and small woven Russell logo tab at the waistband.
This piece comes from an especially interesting transitional period in Abercrombie & Fitch history. The original Abercrombie & Fitch had been a famous American sporting-goods and expedition outfitter before its collapse in the 1970s. Oshman’s Sporting Goods subsequently acquired the A&F name and attempted to revive the company around its historic outdoor, travel and exploration identity. (Texas State Historical Association)
The “Abercrombie & Fitch Explorers Club” name was formally filed as a trademark by Oshman’s on June 6, 1986, specifically for sweatshirts and T-shirts. (Justia Trademarks) The mark even became the subject of a trademark proceeding involving The Explorers Club in May 1987. (TTABVUE)
Oshman’s agreed to sell Abercrombie & Fitch to The Limited in January 1988, placing this Explorers Club design in the short-lived pre-mall, Oshman’s-era chapter of A&F history, before the brand developed the 1990’s image most people associate with Abercrombie today. (The Washington Post)
The Perth, Australia designation appears to be part of the Explorers Club’s destination / expedition-themed branding rather than evidence of an actual Abercrombie club location in Perth.
The Russell Athletic blank also supports the dating. Russell introduced its familiar red-and-blue Eagle R logo in 1983, replacing its earlier gold branding, and this Made in USA label configuration is consistent with Russell garments from the 1980’s. (Russell Athletic)
Tagged Medium – Fits like a Medium. Please refer to measurements below for exact sizing.
Measurements:
Pit to Pit: 21"
Length: 24"
For additional measurements, please shoot us a message.
Condition:
Good vintage condition with general wear consistent with age and use. Graphic shows light fading and surface wear. Sweatshirt has light discoloration / small marks in areas, including a visible spot near the upper shoulder/chest area. Ribbing and construction remain in good overall shape. Please refer closely to photos for exact condition.
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