Gaijin Made | KEEN|Mountain Research

Since its inception ten years ago, Garbstore has been championing small, independent Japanese labels – many of which are Japan’s best-kept menswear secrets. Here we look at four labels that are producing high-quality, crafted pieces that are exclusive to Garbstore in the UK.

Founded in 1992, Gaijin Made - the sister brand to Hollywood Ranch Market and Blue Blue Japan - works with craftspeople from all over the world to create products that reflect a particular region. African vintage fabrics and Thailand’s hand-woven textiles stand out from the crowd with an emphasis on Indigo dyeing techniques.

One of the biggest sub-cultures in Japan is the appreciation of the outdoors. As Garbstore founder Ian Paley said in a previous post (https://www.couvertureandthegarbstore.com/forecast/garbstore-in-conversation-the-subculture-of-japanese-outdoor-fashion/)

KEEN footwear is a great example of how fashion and lifestyle cross over, and collaborations are a way for niche labels to reach a new audience.

Returning to Garbstore, the American outdoor footwear brand has partnered with two Japanese labels for SS19. Taking their cue from the UNEEK corded sandal, Hombre Niño - created by renowned Japanese skateboarder Yoshifumi Egawa – and Japanese label and store Beams have created two exclusive styles, available only at Garbstore in the UK.

Part sandal and part trainer, this minimalist concept features a one-of-a-kind cord construction upper that moulds to and flexes with your foot. The sandals feature a lightweight flex sole, metatomical footbed that's designed to provide internal support, microfiber heel back and are finished with a secure fit lace back. For the ultimate summer shoe, a quick-drying Lycra lining wicks moisture away and the Beams pair also comes with a pack of multi-coloured elastic toggles for further customisation.

Another label exclusive to Garbstore in the UK is Japanese label Mountain Research.  Founded in 1993 by designer Kobayashi Setsumasa, the collection plays on its trademark anarchy aesthetic fusing utilitarian codes with a moody underground style, presenting a riot-inspired, all-black range with pieces such as the ‘anti-water canon jacket’ and their mascot bear-head print with their faces covered.

As London’s leading life & style destination for globally sourced emerging talent, independent labels and exclusive collaborations, Garbstore is proud to work with labels which are no longer a best kept-secret. Shop Mountain Research, Gaijin Made and KEEN online now.