All About Japan

Stunning Samurai Parka for Modern Men

Samurai Fashion

After releasing an inspiring range of avante-garde hakama and yukata for men, Kyoto-based fashion label Wazigen Shizukuya quickly followed up with its stunning Opus.9 Ukiyo Shinogi line.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

This time, the hakama and hooded parkas in the range are modeled on the concept of “paper garments,” highlighting the versatility of washi, traditional Japanese paper, which was used centuries ago as a clothing textile in Japan.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

The first item in the range is the “Zin Parka – Syoen,” which translates to “Battle Formation Parka – Soot of a Burnt Pine.”

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

Taking its shape from the traditional battle surcoat, the reversible hooded jacket is made from paper and hemp that has been covered in a polyurethane coating to add a waterproof quality to the natural material.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

The “Hakama – Koboku,” which translates to “Traditional Men’s Skirt – Dry Wood,” is made from washi and has a remarkable bark-like quality, thanks to the use of red iron oxide and persimmon juice in the dyeing process.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

By repeating the dyeing process a large number of times, the paper skirt takes on a creased appearance and becomes more rigid and waterproof.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

The “Zin Parka – Karazishi,” or “Battle Formation Parka” is made from hemp with a washi paper lining and neck lapels.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

The way the hood sits on this parka is designed to give a three-dimensional effect by displaying the inner lining when pulled back, while creating an impressive stand-up collar at the same time.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

Completing the paper-themed collection is a special handmade obi waist sash modeled on accounting books used by merchants in the Edo Period (1603-1868). These books contained long, bound pieces of paper which opened vertically, resembling the same rectangular shape as an obi.

http://www.shizukuya.com/products/10th_anniversary/opus09.html

The obi is made from a finely woven material with a dark brown hemp underside.

While the handcrafted garments are stunning, they don’t come cheap, with prices ranging from ¥120,000 (US$1,054) plus tax for the obi sash and up to ¥280,000 (US$2,460) for the hakama. If you’d like to see these one-off garments and other special creations in person, you’ll definitely want to head to the Wazigen Shizukuya store in Kyoto. Or you can check out their website or Facebook page.

Related Stories:
Japanese fashion company’s modernized haori half coats will keep you warm and samurai chic
Awesome iPhone cases made with traditional Hakata textiles give your device a timeless look
Kabuki and geisha cats appear as cute purses based on famous Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints

Read full story: en.rocketnews24.com