Founding and Vision
Tommy John, founded in 2008 by Tom Patterson and his wife Erin Fujimoto, is an American brand that revolutionized the men’s (and later women’s) underwear market by focusing on comfort, fit, and innovation. The brand was born out of Tom Patterson’s frustration with the ill-fitting, uncomfortable men’s undergarments he was used to wearing. This frustration led to the creation of Tommy John’s first product—a comfortable, functional undershirt that didn’t bunch, ride up, or lose its shape. Tommy John’s vision is to provide men and women with everyday apparel that feels as good as it looks, focusing on materials and designs that eliminate discomfort and enhance performance.
Design Philosophy
Comfort and Functionality
Tommy John’s design philosophy centers around creating clothing that offers superior comfort without sacrificing style or functionality. The brand is best known for its attention to detail in solving everyday problems with men’s and women’s underwear. The key innovations include anti-rolling waistbands, stay-tucked undershirts, and moisture-wicking fabrics that keep wearers comfortable throughout the day. Whether it’s boxers, briefs, or undershirts, Tommy John is designed to move with the body, ensuring that wearers experience ultimate freedom and comfort.
Innovative Fabrics
Tommy John focuses heavily on the fabrics it uses, offering materials that are soft, breathable, and durable. The brand’s patented micro-modal fabric is used in many of its products, known for being incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, and resistant to shrinking or losing shape. Other fabrics include anti-microbial blends that reduce odors and moisture-control materials that enhance comfort, even during high-performance activities. This focus on innovation has allowed Tommy John to redefine what customers expect from their everyday underwear and apparel.
Famous Features
Second Skin™ and Cool Cotton™
Two of Tommy John’s most popular product lines are the Second Skin™ and Cool Cotton™ collections. The Second Skin™ line is made from ultra-soft, silky fabric that feels weightless against the skin. It’s designed to offer a snug fit without feeling restrictive, making it ideal for all-day wear. The Cool Cotton™ collection is designed for breathability, offering a blend of cotton that wicks moisture away from the skin, perfect for those seeking lightweight comfort in warmer climates.
Stay-Tucked Undershirts
One of the brand’s original innovations, the Stay-Tucked Undershirt, remains a bestseller. Unlike traditional undershirts that ride up or bunch under clothing, Tommy John’s undershirts feature a longer cut that stays securely tucked in throughout the day. The fabric is designed to stretch and move with the wearer, preventing any awkward adjustments or discomfort. This undershirt was the first product that put Tommy John on the map for solving common clothing problems with smart, practical solutions.
Celebrity Endorsements
Influential Fans
Tommy John has garnered a loyal following among celebrities, athletes, and public figures who appreciate the brand’s commitment to comfort and quality. Notable fans include actor Kevin Hart, who became the face of the brand in 2017, publicly endorsing Tommy John for its superior fit and comfort. Many other celebrities, including Dwayne Johnson and Hugh Jackman, have been spotted wearing Tommy John, highlighting its wide appeal in both everyday and performance-driven settings.
Endorsement by Howard Stern
One of Tommy John’s most notable celebrity endorsements comes from radio personality Howard Stern, who has been a vocal fan of the brand since its early days. Stern frequently praises the brand on his radio show, calling attention to the comfort and quality of Tommy John’s underwear and shirts, further establishing the brand’s reputation among a diverse audience.
Product Range
Men’s Underwear
Tommy John’s men’s underwear collection is the core of the brand, offering a range of styles such as boxer briefs, trunks, briefs, and boxers. Each pair is designed with Tommy John’s innovative features, including the Quick Draw® Fly, which provides easier access, and Contour Pouches, which offer extra support. The waistband designs ensure that there is no pinching or rolling, providing a comfortable fit for everyday wear.
Women’s Collection
In 2018, Tommy John expanded its offerings to include a women’s collection. The women’s underwear and loungewear lines feature the same focus on comfort and functionality, with styles such as briefs, thongs, and camisoles crafted from soft, moisture-wicking fabrics. The collection also includes wireless bras designed for maximum comfort, offering support without underwires, and comfortable loungewear that is stylish yet functional.
Loungewear and Apparel
In addition to underwear, Tommy John offers a comprehensive range of loungewear and everyday apparel for both men and women. This includes soft, breathable t-shirts, joggers, and sleepwear, all designed with the same attention to comfort and functionality. Each piece is crafted from premium fabrics and features smart designs that eliminate common annoyances such as chafing, itching, or discomfort, making them ideal for both relaxing at home and casual outings.
Socks and Accessories
Tommy John’s product line also includes socks, designed with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep feet cool and dry. The socks feature seamless toe designs to prevent irritation and reinforced heels for durability. In addition, Tommy John offers accessories such as undershirt stay clips, ensuring that men and women experience a seamless, comfortable fit all day long.
Cultural Impact
Redefining Everyday Comfort
Tommy John has had a significant impact on how men (and now women) view everyday essentials like underwear and undershirts. The brand’s innovative approach to addressing discomfort through smart designs and high-quality fabrics has set a new standard for undergarments. Tommy John has changed the conversation around fit and functionality, making comfort a priority in a market that previously overlooked these factors.
Modernizing the Undergarment Industry
Tommy John has modernized the undergarment industry by combining practicality with style. Its success has encouraged other brands to rethink their approach to everyday essentials, leading to a shift in consumer expectations. Tommy John has built a loyal customer base by staying true to its mission of offering undergarments that provide superior comfort without sacrificing aesthetics or quality.
Brands like Tommy John
Some brands like Tommy John that are featured on Style Encyclopedia are Saxx, Bombas, and Mack Weldon.
Conclusion
Tommy John stands out as a pioneer in redefining comfort and functionality in everyday apparel. With its innovative designs, such as the Stay-Tucked Undershirt and Second Skin™ underwear, the brand has earned a reputation for creating clothing that fits perfectly and feels exceptional. As Tommy John continues to expand its product lines while maintaining its commitment to quality, the brand remains at the forefront of revolutionizing everyday wear for both men and women.
