Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathaniel Mills
Hi Nathaniel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After 13 years in the military and being up for another reenlistment, I faced a crossroad—continue down a familiar path or take a leap into the unknown. Entrepreneurship had always been an interest, but it wasn’t until I separated from military life that I discovered my true obsession: performance fashion.
The challenge was clear—create clothing that is both stylish and functional, but in a way that reflected my values of dedication and integrity. American Lineage was born. Countless hours spent watching YouTube videos, I learned how to create shirt patterns using Adobe Illustrator. I designed my patterns, printed them at Staples, then brought them home to cut out in my living room. Determined to perfect the fit, I taught myself how to sew, further refining each new shape. Once I identified the perfect fit, I moved on to grading sizes, understanding the nuances of how a single design could adapt to different body types. With patterns refined and sizes graded, I assembled technical packages that would guide local professional cut-and-sew manufacturers in bringing my vision to life at scale.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting American Lineage came with many challenges—each one a test of resilience, adaptability, and determination.
Transitioning from military to the world of fashion (from which I had no understanding). Learning technical skills like pattern making, sewing and fabric selection required countless hours of trial and error.
Staying true to the commitment of American-made products presented a challenge in sourcing high-quality domestic fabrics. Once exposed to the textile industry, it was apparent that most brands chose the path of least resistance provided in foreign manufacturing.
However, the biggest obstacle has been myself. Self-doubt crept in at every stage—questioning whether I had what it took to become successful in entrepreneurship, whether my designs would resonate with others, and whether I could truly build something from the ground up. There were moments when the uncertainty felt overwhelming, when the fear of failure overshadowed my vision.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about American Lineage?
American Lineage stands for something deeper than fashion. We are dedicated to producing apparel that is made in the USA. From sourcing fabrics in Los Angeles to manufacturing in San Diego. What truly sets American Lineage apart is our unwavering dedication to domestic manufacturing. In an industry where many brands prioritize profit by outsourcing production—often at the expense of fair labor practices—we stand firm in our belief that American-made matters. Every purchase supports local workers, strengthens our economy, and upholds the integrity of American craftsmanship.
I want readers to know that American Lineage isn’t just another clothing brand—it’s a movement. It’s about making a conscious choice to invest in American jobs and communities rather than supporting companies that prioritize profits over people.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
following on instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/americanlineageofficial
or Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550777782603&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://americanlineage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanlineageofficial
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550777782603&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
