An OD+SJ Collaboration | The ODSJ013 Heavyweight Rope Dyed Indigo Flannel

We love Samurai’s flannels, and in 2024 we had the chance to develop alongside the sword-wielding brand our first OD+SJ Flannel. Fast forward to 2025 and we were ready to approach the brand again to develop our second shirting collaboration, this time letting the rope-dyed indigo element truly shine.

We began with simulations of colors and pattern combinations we would love to see on this latest OD+SJ flannel. With the boys over in Osaka usually opting for fun and abstract colors for their in-line pieces, we figured it would be appropriate for us to approach this venture by keeping things a bit more simple, yet standout. To achieve this, we opted to develop a pattern where the indigo color dominates the block check areas of the shirt, while mixing in red to create a nuanced contrast - and also celebrating a color we have traditionally used in our OD+ projects.

The final pattern simulation created by Samurai prior to the proprietary fabric entering production

After going back and forth with the crew in Osaka a number of times, we tweaked the digital fabric simulation before settling on this final motif. Upon completion of the digital rendering, the simulation is sent to the shirting weavers in Nishiwaki, Hyogo to be woven as per our specifications on design and weight. Nishiwaki is an area famous in Japan for shirting, historically for dress shirts but for the past few decades have added Nell check heavyweight flannel fabric as a specialization.

But the indigo train doesn't end there. Samurai have gone the extra mile by dyeing the nut buttons in indigo, ensuring that they also develop a beautiful patina over time, mirroring the shirt's evolving character. This commitment to detail extends to the construction as well. Along with reinforced elbow panels, triple-needle chainstitching is featured throughout the seam construction of the shirt. This guarantees durability of the shirt, and ensures it will remain a cherished piece in your wardrobe for years to come.