45rpm's Ai Shokunin Collection Redefines Luxury Streetwear
Japanese clothing institution 45rpm's Ai Shokunin collection offers exclusive, handmade garments with a focus on wearability
The world of luxury streetwear is often associated with high price tags and exclusive designs. Japanese clothing institution 45rpm is no exception, with its top-tier Ai Shokunin collection boasting prices that are well-deserved due to the exceptional craftsmanship and materials used.
The 45rpm Difference
45rpm has been making clothes the hard way for nearly 50 years, with an ethos that emphasizes creating the world's finest workwear-ish garments using the world's finest fabrics and craft. The brand's commitment to in-house production, from fabric sourcing to dyeing to stitching, sets it apart from other fashion labels that outsource at least some aspect of production.
The result is a collection of exquisite clothes that are meant to be worn like any other garment. 45rpm's mainline collections are already limited due to the intensive make, but the Ai Shokunin collection takes it to another level with specially devised exclusive fabrics and handmade finishes.
Ai Shokunin Collection Details
The Ai Shokunin collection includes a range of exclusive fabrics, such as selvedge indigo-dipped corduroy and resist-dyed patchwork cotton created in India exclusively for Ai Shokunin. The clothes are finished by hand from start to finish and limited to single-digit editions, making them truly wearable art.
The prices of the Ai Shokunin collection reflect the exceptional craftsmanship and materials used, with an elbow-patched jacket weighing in at $6,160 and beautiful patchwork shirts commanding $2,800. The collection enjoys its own dedicated storefront in New York, where the clothes are displayed like in an art gallery.
Wearability and Timelessness
Despite the high price tags, the idea behind the Ai Shokunin collection is that the clothes are meant to be worn. The shapes are classic, borrowed from utilitarian workwear, and are intended to be enjoyed as clothing. The brand's focus on wearability and timelessness sets it apart from other luxury streetwear brands that prioritize design over functionality.
The Ai Shokunin collection is a testament to 45rpm's commitment to creating exceptional clothing that is both beautiful and functional. With its exclusive fabrics, handmade finishes, and timeless designs, the collection is a must-have for anyone who appreciates luxury streetwear.
