Overview

The Mega-Brands That Built America explores the entrepreneurs, rivalries, and innovations behind some of America’s most recognizable companies through expert interviews, archival material, and dramatic recreations.

Matthew Solomon served as Costume Designer for the complete inaugural season, designing all four episodes. Moving across industries and historical periods, the season examines the growth of Walmart and Costco, the transformation of package delivery, sporting-goods pioneers including Spalding, Wilson, and Rawlings, and the origins of Procter & Gamble.

The recreation sequences required historically grounded costumes for entrepreneurs, executives, laborers, athletes, consumers, and recognizable historical figures. The designs establish period, occupation, socioeconomic background, and character while maintaining a cohesive visual language across the season.

Production Details

Season: 1 — All Four Episodes

Original Run: July 23–August 13, 2023

Production Company: Lucky 8

Network: The HISTORY Channel

Director: Drew Painter

Head Writer: Brian Burstein

Director of Photography: Jaron Berman

Production Designer: Carey Rothman

Costume Designer: Matthew Solomon

Art Director: Jessica Ellis

Assistant Art Director: Chloé Seytre

Set Decorator: Stephane Pain

Graphic Designer: Bill C. Bishop

Art Department Coordinator: Brielle Carroll

Production Manager: Adrienne Vaccaro

Unit Production Manager: Thomas Mumme

First Assistant Director / Second Unit Director: Monica Palmieri

Assistant Director: Carla Gil

Editor: Eddie Gutch