The Beeswax Down Vest

The Beeswax Down Vest began as a simple idea: to make the down layer we’ve always wanted to wear.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest means you wear down - a lot. Even in summer, when the nights turn cool and damp, there’s always a layer close by. We’ve spent years searching for the perfect vest: warm but not bulky, sturdy but soft, practical enough for daily life and special enough to keep forever.

That search led us, naturally, to Crescent Down Works.

Founded in Seattle in 1974, Crescent Down Works is a women-owned staple of Pacific Northwest outerwear. They’ve been making exceptional down garments for decades, using ethically sourced down, thoughtful construction, and designs that quietly stand the test of time. They’ve long been an inspiration to us: one of those rare companies that does things the right way, without rushing.

After launching our Beeswaxed Canvas Jacket, we found ourselves with leftover fabric. Too beautiful to waste, too intentional to discard. We knew we wanted to turn it into something meaningful. A down vest had always been on our design list, and Crescent immediately came up in conversation.

The connection came together organically. One winter afternoon at a market, packing up jackets and chatting with friends. When we mentioned the extra beeswaxed canvas and the idea of a vest, the response was instant: Have you thought about Crescent Down Works? A jacket was dropped off, a few emails followed, and suddenly a long-held idea began to take shape.

Working with Crescent felt like a full-circle moment. Their team are true pros - deeply knowledgeable, detail-oriented, and committed to making garments that last. We started with their Italian vest pattern and made a few thoughtful adjustments: shortening the length slightly, opting for brass buttons instead of a zipper or elastic, and letting the rest of the construction remain true to Crescent’s expertise.

The result is a vest that reminds us of the vintage L.L. Bean pieces we wore growing up. The kind that work for everyone, across ages and activities, and somehow always feel right.

This vest is an investment, but it’s the kind of piece we believe in deeply: a lifer. Designed to be worn often, softened by time, and eventually passed on. We’re especially proud that remnant fabric was transformed into something this lasting—proof that thoughtful design can honor both materials and craft.

The photos accompanying this story were taken by The LOVE LOVE LOVE at Crescent Down Works’ production house in Seattle, honoring the magic of garments being made close to home.

You can explore the Beeswax Down Vest here.