Style Factories

I have encounter a few gems on the Monocle, I mean I don't get to read it as much as I would want to ( I know my partner grinds me about my reading that he claims to be barely adequate ) but when I do get down to the pages I really do feast on some good reads.

Earlier today I came across a couple of designers who seemingly share the same underlying sentiments that inform the better in fashion and the clothing industry. And even though I am working in the mainstream fashion industry right now, I really do not feel like I am designing or contributing towards things that I am truly excited about or clothing that I am encouraged to wear. I often feel that even though we wear western clothes in SA, they are designed for a different body type(that only makes up a very small percentage of the population) and that is not an opportunity seizing mind for me.

I want to create a brand that will be acknowledged for it's quality, one that is ageless in innovation and in its simplicity. Anchor garments that  are carved from natural fibres that speak well for themselves, items that can be handed down to the next generations to come.  But most importantly creating/production enviroments that are made up of women of colour who are empowered through knowledge and well designed projects that will assist them in building great lives for themselves and their families.

Anyway... with all that being said and done, here's a growing locally manufacturing design brand from Japan that I also think is worth the search. I love what these guys are doing.

Name : Toku & Yuji Shimura with Tassei Onuki
Country: Japan
Brand/Label: Oldman's Tailor
Brand Concept: A husband and wife design team. Pays homage to European antique linen and the detailed beauty of garments from generations past. they don't have an official site but they do have a cult following.