NEW YORK, Mar 24, 2009 / FW/ — Move over Cloud Strife, there is a new Japanese heartthrob and its name is Tokyo Five, a new denim label that mixes Japanese fashion influenced by American pop culture and European aesthetics.
“The name Tokyo Five was not randomly selected,” explained Charles Jebara, a jeans business veteran who decided to launch this young denim sportswear line. “TOKYO references the Japanese fashion and the number FIVE stands for Bravery, Respect, Honor, Loyalty and Wisdom, which is the code of the Samurai warrior.
For its initial offering, Tokyo Five has its signature jeans line – denim treated with premium washes and effects with contemporary details like a few rips and tears, strategically placed creases, stitching, zippers and buttons among others.
It also a t-shirt line with vintage graphics and logo that mostly use Japanese Kanji and details like velvet trim and embroidery. The thread used to embroider the (samurai) code on the shirt matches the stitching on the jeans.
And though the label is practically new, Charles Jebara already has plans for expansion. “Tokyo 5 will also introduce special edition pieces using Japanese denim,” said Jebara. “We plan to focus on the men’s line because quite frankly, I believe that there is not enough men’s denim in the market.”
Tokyo 5 is currently available at selected Macy’s and retails for $60 – $100 for the jeans and $38 – $50 for the t-shirts.
[MICA FUJIMURA and EDGARDO HERNANDEZ]
Photos by EDWARD COLELLI
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