The Japanese culture has a cult Western fan base that is well-deserved as these shibori fashion designs show. Taking the time-honored hand-dye technique and making it their own, Kalen Kaminski and Astrid Chastka of Upstate, a studio based in Brooklyn, New York, is bringing a taste of the ancient tradition to the mainstream.
From dresses to scarves and a slew of accessories, the shibori fashion collection boasts a burst of bright colors and bold patterns that would make any woman stand out. Refinery29 points out that "according to Kaminski and Chastka, 'small changes in the combinations of binding and dyeing create an endless array of patterns and textures.'" What's particularly special about this shibori fashion is that no two are alike.
Chic Shibori Fashion
Upstate's Hand-Dyed Clothes Modernize the Traditional Japanese Technique
Trend Themes
1. Modern Shibori Fashion - Innovative updates to the traditional Japanese hand-dye technique present unique opportunities to differentiate within the textile industry.
2. Sustainable Shibori Practices - Environmentally conscious applications of shibori dyeing can attract consumers seeking eco-friendly fashion options, while disrupting the current fast fashion model.
3. Globalization of Shibori Fashion - International expansion of shibori fashion brands and collaborations with designers from different cultures can introduce the technique to new audiences and markets.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion & Textiles - As shibori fashion gains popularity, the industry can explore innovative applications of the hand-dye technique, such as in athleisure and home decor.
2. Craft & DIY - As consumer interest in handmade and artisanal products grow, there is an opportunity for craft and DIY industries to develop shibori-specific products and workshops.
3. Cultural Tourism - As shibori fashion gains global popularity, there is potential for cultural tourism industries, such as travel, hospitality and retail, to introduce and promote the technique as a cultural experience for consumers.