Erik Allen Ford

Erik Allen Ford is the co-founder and CEO of Buck Mason, a clothing brand known for its modern American classics. Here are some key details about him:

Professional Background

Erik co-founded Buck Mason in 2013 with Sasha Koehn in Venice, California.6 The company started in a small 350-square-foot garage, initially focusing on locally-made jeans and t-shirts.6 Under Erik's leadership as CEO, Buck Mason has grown significantly, now operating 30 retail locations across the United States.1

Education and Early Life

Erik attended Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, where he studied Business Management.2 He grew up in rural Missouri, which has influenced his approach to fashion and business.34

Business Philosophy

Erik is passionate about creating emotionally resonant clothing. He emphasizes the importance of vintage inspiration in Buck Mason's designs, stating that their collection is "100% inspired by vintage".1 He believes in focusing on quality and craftsmanship rather than solely on sales metrics.5

Manufacturing Approach

Under Erik's leadership, Buck Mason has invested in American manufacturing. They purchased a knitting mill in Pennsylvania to improve their t-shirt production and maintain control over the manufacturing process.1 However, Erik maintains that the goal isn't to manufacture everything in America, but rather to work with the best makers worldwide while maintaining a focus on value and quality.1

Personal Style

Erik's personal style aligns closely with Buck Mason's aesthetic. He's often seen wearing perfectly patinaed items, including boots, jeans, and a crisp white oxford shirt.1 He describes his style philosophy simply as wearing "what makes me feel good".1

Erik Allen Ford's approach to fashion and business combines a respect for American manufacturing traditions with a modern sensibility, which has helped establish Buck Mason as a notable player in the contemporary menswear market.