Studio D'Artisan "Awa-Ai" Natural Indigo Shijira Plaid Shirt

5706B

• Original "Awa-Ai" Shijira Plaid Fabric
• 100% Cotton
• Dyed in Natural Indigo
• One Wash
• Workstyle chest pockets
• Resin button opening

First introduced to Japan from China around 900 A.D., the art of Natural Indigo dyeing in Tokushima was popularized by Lord Hachisuka of Awa City in Tokushima, Japan. Lord Hachisuka discovered that the climate in the area around Yoshino River Basin was ideal for Indigo cultivation, a revolutionary moment for Japanese Natural Indigo.

Using a process of fermentation of the Indigofera leaves to develop the paste, or Sukumo, the process of Tokushima Aizome dyeing is unique to the prefecture. Given that the plant-based derived dye is completely naturally occurring, the garments serve as a natural insect repellent due to the scent of Natural Indigo. 

Shijira weave has a long history dating back to the Meiji era as a fabric base used for Kimono and Yukata. The texture prevents the cloth from sticking to the skin of the wearer during the hottest months of the year and as a result of the low-tension weave is a very light, breathable fabric.

It is speculated that this type of fabric was discovered by accident, when cloth was left out in the rain. An uneven warp and weft combination followed by a sun dry resulted in a unique, "pucker" like fabric face.

*Model is pictured wearing a size 40. He weighs 59kg (130 pounds) and is 178cm (5’11”) tall.

Made in Okayama, Japan