Brackish: A Lowcountry Treasure Born in Charleston
Charleston, known for its rich history and charming streets, is also home to a unique brand that embodies the spirit of the Lowcountry: Brackish. This remarkable company, which started back in 2007 in a cozy apartment on Rutledge Avenue, has grown into a symbol of fashion, craftsmanship, and local pride. What began as a creative venture between two friends has blossomed into a beloved brand that’s capturing hearts both locally and across the nation.
The Origin Story
The spark for Brackish ignited when co-founder Ben Ross crafted beautiful turkey feather bow ties for his groomsmen. Little did he know that one of those groomsmen, co-founder Jeff Plotner, would join him in transforming this thoughtful gift into a profitable venture. Since its inception, Brackish has gained popularity not just among locals but also among celebrities who flaunt the brand’s stunning pieces on red carpets and national broadcasts.
A Focus on Craftsmanship and Nature
Brackish strives to blend artistry with a deep appreciation for nature. “From the very beginning, we’ve been laser-focused on our mission to create a best-in-class brand known for our superior craftsmanship and our artistic lens of repurposing and reimagining the beauty found in nature,” said Jeff. He hinted at exciting changes on the horizon, stating, “In 2025, we’re taking a really big step in our evolution as a brand and entering into several completely new categories.”
While Jeff remained somewhat tight-lipped about the details, he did share a sneak peek: “We’ve got women’s belts coming by the end of this year, and our customers are definitely going to love what we’ve got in the works at the start of the new year.”
The Exciting Women’s Collection
The brand made its foray into the women’s collection in 2019, and it has only flourished since. “We’re adding new belts in some really great silhouettes this fall, specifically for women,” Ben shared. The excitement and anticipation surrounding this addition are palpable among Brackish fans, eager to see what chic designs the creative team has crafted.
A Celebrity Experience
One can’t discuss Brackish without mentioning its star-studded fans. Seeing celebrities wearing their creations gives Jeff and Ben a sense of pride and excitement. “Honestly, humbled + flattered,” Jeff said. “It gives me goosebumps every time I see a customer wearing a piece we’ve created right here in Charleston out in the wild. Celebrities are really a cherry on top of the hometown pride I have.” He even expressed a dream to see Matthew McConaughey sporting a Brackish bow tie, especially with their new collegiate collection inspired by the University of Texas.
Gameday Ready
For those who bleed orange and purple, Brackish has exciting options too! Along with the Texas collection, fans of Clemson and the Gamecocks can also find some fabulous gameday pieces. It’s clear that Brackish has something to offer for every local sports enthusiast.
Staying True to Their Roots
No matter how much Brackish grows, both co-founders emphasize their commitment to local craftsmanship. “We still make all of our feather pieces right here in Charleston,” Ben asserted. “I don’t think we could have replicated our story anywhere else because of the incredibly talented artisans who make up our team. They are our secret sauce.”
A Taste of Charleston
As for their favorite local hangouts when they get a chance to unwind, Jeff is a fan of Lowland and Chubby Fish, while Ben boasts a broader culinary palate, favoring Hanks, Fig, and Halls. It’s just another reminder that even as Brackish moves toward new heights, the heart of the brand remains tied to its beloved Charleston roots.
With a thriving future ahead, Brackish continues to inspire us all — celebrating the artistry of nature while rooting for local talent. Keep an eye on this extraordinary brand as it continues to shine both at home and beyond!
