Paige Clarkson’s Heirloom Story: Transforming a Marine Corps Uniform Into a Meaningful Gift
At R. Riveter, we know that uniforms are more than fabric—they’re a tangible representation of service, sacrifice, and pride. Our Heirloom Program gives families the opportunity to repurpose these treasured garments into timeless handbags and accessories, preserving memories in a way that can be carried forward for generations.
Today, we’re honored to share Paige Clarkson’s Heirloom story, which captures the heart of what this collection is all about.
Repurposing a Uniform Full of Memories
When Paige’s husband, a retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, was cleaning out his belongings after 22 years of service, his uniforms were nearly placed in the “meh” pile. For Paige, though, they were so much more.
“They’re such an important and tangible representation of his service and his deployments and promotions and celebrations that repurposing just made sense. But alas… I don’t sew. Like barely a button. So… luckily I found you!”
Knowing she wanted to preserve this piece of history, Paige decided to turn her husband’s uniform into something meaningful through the R. Riveter Heirloom Program.
Creating the Perfect Graduation Gift
Paige selected the Dopp Kit design as the perfect gift for their only son, who had just graduated from high school. He was preparing to head out west to fight wildfires for the summer, and Paige wanted him to carry something more than just a toiletry kit.
“It means taking a bit of his war hero (MY words, not my husband’s—he would NEVER refer to himself that way) dad with him! He idolizes his father, so to carry his uniform with him is such a good reminder of who he is, where he comes from, and who he can be.”
Paige sent in her husband’s desert camo uniform from his last deployment to Afghanistan (2014–2015), complete with his name patch and the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. After retiring in 2018, this uniform represented a significant chapter of his military career—and now, it would become a part of his son’s daily life.
A Gift That Carried Legacy Forward
The finished Heirloom Dopp Bag exceeded expectations.
“This bag was a huge hit. My son LOVED it and it made the grandparents cry. It was easy to order and I am especially appreciative of your company’s mission and backstory. As a wife of a veteran (and now also the MOM of one, as our daughter is in the Navy) I’m keenly aware of how families serve alongside the service member.”
For Paige and her family, the bag was more than a gift—it was a bridge between generations, a way to carry forward her husband’s service and dedication into their son’s next chapter.
And this is just the beginning. Paige already has her sights set on her next heirloom piece:
“We loved this so much I’ll be doing this again!! Next up is a bag for ME from his Captain’s dress uniform!”
Why Families Choose the R. Riveter Heirloom Program
Stories like Paige’s remind us why the Heirloom Program matters. Each piece is handcrafted by military spouses who understand the weight of service and sacrifice, ensuring every detail—whether it’s a patch, a button, or a piece of fabric—honors the legacy it carries.
From graduation gifts to keepsakes that celebrate a lifetime of service, heirloom bags help families preserve the moments, memories, and milestones that matter most.
Carry Your Story Forward
If you have a beloved garment you’d like to transform into a one-of-a-kind heirloom, we’d be honored to help. Explore the R. Riveter Heirloom Program to begin the process of turning your family’s history into a piece you can carry every day.
