The fabric of our shirt was made with paper. The same paper used by Japanese Buddhist monks so that their writings would last for centuries. A material that is still little known and especially little used in the textile field. Make no mistake: this paper with its apparent fragility has an exceptional longevity. Once worked into thread, washi retains extreme strength and becomes even more flexible, bringing great comfort to the fabric; its transformation results in a material that is both resistant, breathable and very pleasant to wear.
The origin of washi begins with the Nara era, in the 710s. Imported to Japan by Chinese Buddhists, this traditional paper is characterized by its soft texture and textured appearance. Initially composed of mulberry fibers, it can now come from other plants, including hemp, as is the case for our washi.
The same paper used by Japanese Buddhist monks to ensure their writings would last for centuries.
To create washi textile fibers, hemp pulp is first pressed and then transformed into very thin paper. The paper is then cut into thin strips and transformed into washi threads. As with any other thread, washi can then be combined with materials such as cotton, linen or silk.
Washi has the particularity of being extremely light and allowing air to pass through naturally, giving the final fabric an airy appearance, very pleasant in summer. Just like linen, our hemp washi perfectly retains its structure, wash after wash: its fibers have excellent hold and are difficult to "break". Another advantage and not the least: washi has absorbent properties and dries extremely quickly!
With original material, unique finishes. A nod to Japanese refinement, this shirt has a sobriety and great versatility, with this touch that intrigues, if you look at it for a few moments: a refined Mao collar and a classic cut that is easy to wear, a shirt behind which hides a thousand-year-old heritage, which only asks to be passed on. See you Sunday at 10am!
