Mr. Dowling is adding shorts, tennis dresses and accessories that used to be features of the brand.

WSJ: Old Brands Get a Second Shot

Overall, domestic costs have come down enough for BDDW's Mr. Hays to create more affordable furniture and home accessories, such as collapsible bookshelves and wood cutting boards for the wholesale company Lostine.

WSJ: The New American Minimalism

But when wig sales flattened in the early 1970s, Mr. Schaefer reoriented the company toward designer luggage and then jewelry and accessories.

WSJ: Remembrances: Rowland Schaefer Set Teen Trends