Wearing 100 years of history. "Isesaki Meisen" revived with modern technology: 10 types of Japanese silk scarves

We have archived the designs of "Isesaki Meisen," a Gunma Prefecture silk fabric born about 100 years ago, and re-edited them for everyday life as scarves.

Like Isesaki Meisen, kimono fabric bolts are only about 36cm wide. Creating clothing within this limited width has always meant facing constraints, such as the need for clever pattern design and fabric shortages.

However, by utilizing archived design data, we have overcome these physical limitations and reborn them as large-format scarves.

A scarf that looks stunning, no matter how you tie it.

Scarves change their expression depending on whether they are spread out or worn. That is why we redesigned the pattern layout so that the composition looks beautiful the moment it is wrapped around your neck.

Through numerous prototypes and evaluations, we adjusted the width of the hem, the intensity of the colors, and the size of the patterns to the millimeter. This is a piece that becomes complete the moment you tie it.

・For jackets, knits, and shirts
・For bags
・As a top
With many ways to use it, it expands your range of style.

Light and supple. Silk jacquard weave that is easy to wear

The fabric uses 100% silk jacquard weave from "Ogura Orimono," which has been in business for 130 years in Ishikawa Prefecture. They are a rare weaver specializing in wide-width silk jacquard, of which there are only a few in Japan.

・Lightweight
・Supple and easy to tie
・Cool on hot days, warm on cold days
Leveraging the natural properties of silk, we have finished this piece to be usable all year round.

Samoan Collection

Patterns ⑦ through ⑩ are four special designs born from a collaboration with "Samoan Sugai," a popular influencer living in Gunma Prefecture with over 340,000 total followers. We hit it off over our shared desire to "share the joy and charm of Meisen with more people," and this project was realized.

⑧ Embassy

A classical modern design featuring an impressive sequence of geometric motifs. It has an intellectual and poised presence reminiscent of European formality.

 

Printed using Epson's inkjet printing technology

Archiving designs of silk textiles that are no longer in production, and reviving them for the modern day through the power of digital technology—this is a joint project between Ay and EPSON.

The playful colors and designs of Isesaki Meisen, along with the delicate expressions of the *kasuri* (ikat), are faithfully reproduced on silk material. High-precision inkjet technology beautifully captures everything from minute gradations to the sway of the lines.

Monna Lisa by EPSON
The fabric in this collection is printed using EPSON's sustainable textile printer, "Monna Lisa."

・Reduces water consumption by up to 96%
・On-demand production that requires no printing plates
・Environmentally conscious process with fewer chemicals

We have achieved manufacturing that is kind to both the environment and the makers.

Careful sewing made in Japan

At a factory in Japan, we employ highly delicate sewing called a 2mm rolled hem. By creating a thin, beautiful edge, it brings a sophisticated impression to the scarf as a whole.

・Size: approx. 90cm+ in length x 90cm+ in width (varies by fabric bolt)
・Material: 100% Silk
・Country of Manufacture: Japan

Because we use valuable fabrics with limited production quantities, the woven patterns for general sales will change depending on the production lot. We hope you enjoy these one-of-a-kind encounters.