The fabric of our shirt was crafted using paper. The very same paper used by Japanese Buddhist monks to ensure their writings endured through the centuries. A material still little known and rarely used in the textile world. Make no mistake: this seemingly fragile paper boasts exceptional longevity. Once spun into yarn, washi retains extreme strength while softening further, lending remarkable comfort to the fabric; its transformation yields a material that is durable, breathable, and a pleasure to wear.
The origin of washi dates back to the Nara period, around 710 AD. Introduced to Japan by Chinese Buddhists, this traditional paper is distinguished by its supple texture and tactile character. Originally made from mulberry fibres, it can now be derived from other plants, notably hemp, as is the case for our washi.
The very same paper used by Japanese Buddhist monks to ensure their writings endured through the centuries.
To create washi textile fibres, hemp pulp is first pressed and turned into very fine paper. The paper is then sliced into thin strips and twisted into washi yarn. Just like any other yarn, washi can then be blended with fibres like cotton, linen, or silk.
Washi is uniquely lightweight and naturally breathable, lending the finished fabric an airy feel that is ideal for summer. Much like linen, our hemp washi holds its structure impeccably, wash after wash: its fibres offer excellent resilience and resist breaking. Another significant advantage: washi is highly absorbent and dries exceptionally fast!
An original material calls for distinctive details. A subtle nod to Japanese refinement, this shirt combines understated elegance with great versatility, finished with intriguing character upon closer inspection: a refined mandarin collar and an easy-to-wear classic cut, a shirt steeped in a thousand-year-old heritage ready to be passed on. See you Sunday at 10am!
