Luxury spin for Japanese upcycling

15/12/2021
Luxury spin for Japanese upcycling
A project to reprocess and sell 20 tonnes of used Levi’s 501 denim jeans by president of Tokyo-based apparel repairs and subcontractor factory Yamasawa Press, Ryoji Yamazawa, appears to be progressing nicely. 

The initiative recently culminated in an exhibition, the title of which loosely translates to “denim in the future”, which was assembled in partnership with around fifty local and international fashion industry players, such as department stores Isetan and Hankyu and brands Sergio Rossi, Golden Goose, Doublet, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Facetasm, Anrealage and Pellico.

Around 150 product samples were put on show as part of the initial display. Together, the creations form the first batch of upcycled denim articles reinterpreted by global designers as a result of the link up with Japanese department stores.

Mr Yamazawa told local media that sustainability was his main concern, but also said that it would be “great” if his brand of eco-consciousness could be re-presented as fashion.

Italian footwear brands Sergio Rossi and Pellico participated in the exhibition. Credit: Ryosuke Motohashi.