Sendai Brown for Winter Workers.

The Papa is putting together winter looks using his newly bought Lofgren workwear as a base. The core elements here are the Natural seeded selvedge chambray shirt which has a beautiful weight and fine texture.

Heavy brown duck bakers pants from John add authenticity when teamed up with Papa's custom belt from Warp and Woof. The Navajo stamped buckle was cast from an original out of a 30's Montgomery Ward Catalog and the Papa had Carnelian stones added. These duck pants will age beautifully when worn and washed down.

The Brown Duck cap was made for the Papa by Warren Schummer of Vintage Workwear and features a shoe string lace up back. Set against old Redwings this is an awesome combo.

Lofgren internal labelling.

 Redwing vintage label.

John Lofgren's Speedway Shop in Sendai Japan is one of the few establishments in the Far East that ships abroad hassel free. If you've ever had to deal with Japanese retailers you'd appreciate this point no end! Contact Speedway, talk to John and tell him the Papa sent you. www.speedway-shop.com/

Warp and Woof custom belt.

The thing that comes to mind to me about Japanese goods is quality and attentiveness to detail. I believe that this approach is inherent to them because of the concept of zen, which in many ways permeates their culture. In vintage clothing replicas they are in a class of the own. This is because every single detail is thoroughly researched and replicated to as an exacting standard as one can achieve. Exacting fabric construction and dye methods, moulding of hardware on zippers, buckles and studs are all of am unbelievable quality. Many western enthusiasts scoff at Japanese pricing but I can assure that this perfection does not come cheap. Case in example is my custom made belt from Warp and Woof.
The buckle is cast in sterling silver and is an exacting replica from a 1930's Montgomery ward catalog. I was present when Masato-san my artisan friend showed me the page in which the buckle featured. The native american twirling log design (swastika) features prominently as this design pre-dates the decree of the native american artists associations' decision to discontinue the symbol in response to the rise of fascism in Europe in the late 1930's. The leather belt with its stamp pays homage to the HH Hieser saddlery company of Denver Colorado, famous in its day for quality leathergoods. The belt also comes equipped with various key holders, money pouch and wallet attatchment. An amazing piece which I still wear daily after 10 solid years of use. With all the huzz buzz of the larger Japanese manufactures such as the The Real McCoys and Buzz Rickson, the smaller operations like Warp and Woof are still making and incredible product which deserves to be recognised. If you ever have the chance to visit Tokyo their store is a must stop over.

Warp and Woof jacket is a killer!!

Of all Japanese brands one of my all time favourites is Warp and Woof in Daikanyama. In 1999 I commissioned them to make this 30's style jacket for me. I was amazed at the results!! Navy blue cashmere and wool with extraordinary detailing. It remains one of my best. Please take the time to check at their blog, http://warp-and-woof.blogspot.com/
I don't believe their garments are available outside of Japan but if you ever visit you must check them out.