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osta Mesa is set to welcome the new headquarters of Dickies, a workwear-turned-fashion brand, as it relocates from Fort Worth's 65,000 square feet to a coastal location. The move may involve a new lease for the company's approximately 100 headquarters staff or potentially shared office space with Vans, another VF Corporation brand based in Costa Mesa. This relocation is part of parent company VF Corporation's cost-cutting efforts, aiming to save around $300 million annually by focusing on core brands and divesting others.

    The arrival of Dickies marks a familiar trend for Orange County, which has long been a hub for the apparel industry, including surfwear labels like Quicksilver. In contrast, Fort Worth is mourning the loss of its 103-year-old brand, with some officials citing California's reputation as a challenging business environment. Since 2005, over 230 companies have left California, with more than half relocating to Texas.

    Dickies' move is seen as an opportunity for the brand to revitalize its image and appeal to a new audience. The company has shifted from utility workwear to fashion, making it a popular choice among style influencers and musicians. With this change in direction, Dickies aims to "carry on the brand's heritage for years to come."