#Japan #Tokyo #TAILOR TOYO #Sukajan Kimono #YAMATO Lab

YAMATO Lab. Unveils SUKAJAN KIMONO

YAMATO Lab., a project by YAMATO Co., Ltd., has released the second edition of SUKAJAN KIMONO in collaboration with TAILOR TOYO, known for their expertise in producing souvenir jackets. The latest piece, designated as SUKAJAN KIMONO #TT15692YM, is a velveteen souvenir jacket titled “ROARING TIGER × EAGLE.” This unique fusion of the iconic Japanese souvenir jacket and traditional kimono style signifies both historical craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Event Details

To celebrate this exciting launch, YAMATO Lab. is hosting a special exhibition and sales event titled "SUKAJAN to KIMONO". The event will occur in two prominent locations:

• - From September 11 to September 23, 2026, at YAMATO Lab. TOKYO in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, and
• - From October 7 to October 19, 2026, in the Shinpukan venue located in Karasuma-Oike, Kyoto.

Visitors to the event will have the exclusive opportunity to view and purchase this limited edition piece in person. Additionally, limited-edition items, inspired by vintage kimono with embroidered elements, will be on display.

This exhibition will highlight the embroidery techniques used in both the souvenir jackets and kimono fabrics, showcasing the artistry and skill of artisans who specialize in these traditional crafts.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The SUKAJAN KIMONO project seeks to explore the convergence of these two distinct styles: the souvenir jacket, known as “sukajan”, and the traditional kimono. Both garments bear a rich heritage steeped in artisan techniques and expressive designs born from various historical contexts. The craftsmanship that defines sukajan, particularly its unique embroideries, originated in the post-war era, showcasing the artistry of Japanese embroiderers.

For example, SUKAJAN KIMONO uses “yokoburi shishuu”, a technique allowing the fabric to move under the needle, thus creating a dimensionally rich pattern that has become a defining characteristic of this style. This edition highlights rich, vibrant embroidery that features a tiger majestically perched on a cliff, alongside intricate designs of an eagle soaring amidst cherry blossoms on the reversible side, ensuring that both sides can be showcased as individual statements.

The Design and Craftsmanship

The SUKAJAN KIMONO #TT15692YM is available for 121,000 JPY (tax included). It masterfully incorporates the iconic reversible design of sukajan while integrating elements from traditional kimono, such as sleeves and collars. The design draws inspiration from vintage sukajan archive patterns, specifically selected from pieces dating back to the 1950s.

The unique velveteen fabric offers a tactile experience unlike many traditional sukajan, commonly composed of smooth acetate. This innovative use of material meets seasonal demands, making it ideal for autumn and winter wear.

The jacket features bold and intricate embroideries that narrate tales of strength and tradition. The bold, rich yellow of the rayon threads contrasts brilliantly with the matte black velveteen, creating a striking visual appeal. Further showcasing the dual-sided nature, the reverse side presents an embroidered eagle that signifies freedom and power, alongside the delicate nuance of its surroundings, enriching the overall design narrative.

Special Event Features

Apart from the exclusive jacket, the event will also present limited-edition items transformed from vintage kimono. Each piece is imbued with stories from the past, reimagined into modern jackets and shirts, featuring auspicious motifs such as cranes, tigers, and rabbits, which symbolize longevity, prosperity, and strength in Japanese culture. Attendees will also witness a fascinating display that focuses on the traditions and techniques of embroidery as applied in both sukajan and kimono, providing a rare insight into the artistry involved.

The SUKAJAN KIMONO event merges the past and present of Japanese clothing, rendering the timeless techniques of embroidery accessible to a contemporary audience.

In conclusion, the SUKAJAN KIMONO series is not merely about fashion; it embodies an exploration of cultural heritage through the artworks of skilled artisans who weave stories into fabric, continuing the legacy of Japanese textile artistry.

For more information, visit YAMATO Lab. and follow their Instagram @yamato.lab for the latest updates.