#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Fashion #Kurosawa Costume #Kurosawa Akira

The Birth of 'Kurosawa Costume'

In March 2023, tragedy struck when renowned costume designer Kazuko Kurosawa suffered a serious health setback. This event deeply impacted her three sons, who remembered their mother's dream of establishing her own fashion brand, where she could express her unique design vision freely. From this desire, after nearly three years of dedicated preparation, the brothers have launched 'Kurosawa Costume'—a fresh perspective on apparel rooted in the artistry of costume design.

The brand embodies the essence of wearing 'films', 'traditions', and 'Kurosawa' itself. Though it may be a small label without a physical store, 'Kurosawa Costume' proudly collaborates with prominent fabric producers from various locations: the world-renowned denim hub of Kojima in Okayama Prefecture, the traditional sakiori weaving techniques from Morioka, the dyeing factories in Kyoto, and the sashiko artisans in Otsuchi, Iwate Prefecture. Their commitment to quality is evident in every detail, from fabric selection and button designs to the thread itself. The result is a product that meets the highest standards of Japanese craftsmanship.

Traditional Japanese Motifs

Among the many inspirations behind the collection are ancient Japanese customs. One such custom is called 'sakubori', which suggests that a person's spirit resides in their back. Traditionally, to protect children from malevolent spirits, decorative stitching was added to the backs of their clothing. This idea informs various designs within the collection, including the 'Abare Noshin', a pattern associated with good fortune and meaningful connections among people. The pattern is particularly special as it mirrors the fabric of Kurosawa Kazuko's kimono, worn during her son's Shichi-Go-San, a traditional Japanese festival. As a symbol of luck, this motif adorns all garments in the collection (with notable exceptions for collaboration items).

Unique Sakiori Fabric

One of the standout materials in the collection is the 'saki-ori' fabric crafted from clothing once worn by the legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa. Pieces that had become frayed or damaged were meticulously cut and reassembled, creating a new fabric that not only embodies the spirit of their grandfather but exemplifies the essence of the 'Kurosawa Costume' philosophy: to literally wear Kurosawa.

Exhibition Details

The brand's official exhibition will take place over three days this May:

• - Dates (2023): May 1st & 2nd (Friends and Media Day), 10:40 AM - 6:20 PM

May 3rd (Public Opening), 10:40 AM - 6:20 PM
Due to limited space, visitors might encounter waiting times.
Entrance is free, and attendees will find photo spots featuring items used in Kurosawa's films.

Location: 2F, 5-11-13 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo (located above CHOP COFFEE).
Special Giveaway: The first visitors will receive an original boxed note as souvenirs (subject to availability). Please note that limited capacity may enforce a 20-minute time limit for individuals during peak times. Additionally, should you arrive closer to closing, entry may not be guaranteed, so early arrival is encouraged.

Company Overview

From the heart of Setagaya, Tokyo, Kurosawa Grandsons Inc. operates under the leadership of representative director Sō Kurosawa, committed to bridging modern fashion with traditional craftsmanship. The launch of 'Kurosawa Costume' is not just a tribute to their mother, but a celebration of the legacy left by a cinematic icon.