A conversation with the marketing manager of outdoor apparel retailer Outback Trading Company.
Cowboys & Indians: Tell us about Outback Trading as a brand. Who do your products cater to?
Allie King: Outback Trading Co. is known for our rugged oilskin collection and foul weather gear that won’t let you down. We started with a duster and love of adventure, now we have a great range of hats, dusters and, vest and jackets that cater to anyone within the western, outdoors or adventurous lifestyle. We have a core group of oilskin products known as our Traditions Collection and then come out with a fashion collection each fall.
C&I: What trends have inspired the brand in 2020?
King: We love seeing how many Western brands are tapping into the retro western style with a more modern vibe. We wanted to recreate that in an Outback way highlighting our popular fabrics, but also step out of our comfort some with pieces like the Grover Shirt.
C&I: Tell us about the latest menswear collection. What sparked the idea to bring bold color into the line?
King: This is an idea we have been playing with for a few seasons now. It started back when we were developing the Fall 2018 collection. Our patterned ladies’ fleece Big Shirts were being extremely well received and it was suggested we offer a men’s version. It was risky and we were not sure it would work, but the concept was well received. With such positive feedback we introduced more color to the men’s collection the following Fall and buyers were loving it. This year we feel we have really found a good selection of masculine colors, bold designs and functional bodies that really cater to our unique customer.
C&I: Outback Trading apparel is known for balancing fashion and function. How does your team strike that balance during the design process?
King: Our balance of fashion and function is honestly something we take great pride in. We are always considering what the end wearer will be doing in the garment and what features we can add to make the garment more comfortable for them during the design process. Our best feedback is provided by our brand ambassadors and models during photoshoots. They are real people who live an active lifestyle and getting their feedback on all the wonderful features we provide and what we could do to make the garment better is invaluable.
C&I: Of the new colorful pieces, can you pin down the retailer favorites?
King: We are thrilled to have such a bold men’s collection this year with clear favorites being The Hudson Shirt Jacket, Koda Jacket, and Ramsey Jacket.
C&I: What feedback have you gotten on the updated look?
King: We have gotten a lot of excited and surprised looks. For years, our men’s collect was much more muted colors while still bring packed with functional features. We blew that out of the water and changed everything this year by bringing so much color and life to this group.
C&I: What can we expect to see from Outback Trading this fall?
King: Get your sunglasses out! Our Fall Collection is full of bold colors and patterns. We have some favorites from last years collection that we have brought back in new ways as well as introducing some completely new styles. We can’t wait to share this full collection!
Photography: Images courtesy Preston Hoffman
