Keywords: Takarajima Senkou, Traditional craftsmanship, Sustainable fashion, Natural dyeing, Ethical sourcing
Takarajima Senkou, founded in 2001 by Chiharu Ogomori, is a small workshop located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. The brand specializes in producing handcrafted textile goods using traditional plant-based dyeing techniques. Their mission is to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices to create unique and environmentally-friendly apparel.
Brand Information:
Founder: Chiharu Ogomori
Established: 2001
Location: Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
Specialization: Handcrafted textile goods using traditional plant-based dyeing techniques
Mission: To "mid-to-mass-produce" sustainable clothing pieces
Production: All goods are hand-dyed in their workshop
Materials: Natural dyes sourced from Japan and other Asian countries
Community Support: Supports local communities by sourcing materials ethically
Key Material: Indigo sourced from the Living Blue project in India, supporting fair labor practices for over 3,000 artisans
Retail Partners: Products available through various channels, including BEAMS
Brand History and Mission
Ogomori's vision for Takarajima Senkou was sparked by her frustration with the lack of job opportunities in the hand-dye sector of the textile industry, as well as the industry's shift towards digital marketing methods. Rather than succumb to these challenges, she set out to create a more factory-like production process that could preserve the artisanal techniques of natural dyeing.
Sustainable Production Practices
Today, all of Takarajima Senkou's goods are hand-dyed in their own workshop, using natural dyes sourced not only from Japan, but also from other Asian countries. This helps support local communities and reduce the environmental impact of their production.One of their key materials is indigo, which is sourced from the Living Blue project in India. This initiative empowers over 3,000 local artisans through fair labor practices, demonstrating Takarajima Senkou's commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing.
Product Offerings and Retail Partnerships
By bridging the gap between handmade and mass-produced, Takarajima Senkou is able to offer a wide range of sustainably-dyed apparel and textiles. Their products can be found through various retail channels, including the popular Japanese brand BEAMS.
Recognition and Impact
Takarajima Senkou's commitment to community, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness has earned them recognition as a leader in the sustainable fashion space. As the industry continues to evolve, this small workshop in the Japanese countryside serves as an inspiring example of how traditional techniques can be adapted for a more sustainable future.