Discovering a Sustainable Future from Japan

4 hidden treasures of organic cotton fashion brands in Japan

Cotton is one of the main materials used when creating clothing. There is a safe bet that a majority of individuals who have at least one T-shirt, jumper, or pull that is partially made out of the soft and comfy material. However, did you know that it is possible to find cotton that is organic and better for the environment?

Ensuring the quality of organic cotton: Japan Organic Cotton Association (JOCA)

The Japan Organic Cotton Association dedicates itself to helping individuals learn about organic cotton and its benefits. Conventional cotton harvesting is severely detrimental to the environment. The association believes it important to shift consumer choices toward methods that are less harmful to both nature and local communities.

Homepage of NPO Japan Organic Cotton Association. (Screenshot: joca.gr.jp)

The association explains the adverse effects of using chemicals and pesticides in soils. According to its website, the ability to grow new and clean crops dramatically decreases due to groundwater pollution from harmful chemicals. This leads to worse crops and lower-quality cotton.

One of the primary goals of the JOCA is to expand Japan’s organic cotton to the rest of the world, as well as to make sure that organic harvesting technology is succeeded to the next generation of farmers and companies. Members such as clothing companies may attach a JOCA tag onto their clothing if they meet the association’s criteria. JOCA provides two tags; an organic tag for products made with 100 percent cotton and another tag for at least 70 percent cotton.

Here are a few trendy brands in Japan to help you get started

Many designer stores in Japan are already offering its customers organic cotton and shockingly good fashion sense. If you’re becoming more conscious about the adverse environmental effects the fashion industry may create, why not make the switch to organic cotton?

Nofl

Nofl is a fashion brand company within Japan dedicated to using only the finest material that is both domestic and natural. Nofl originated in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture as a wholesale textile company.

The company name is an acronym meaning “natural organic fashion life,” and Nofl is doing its best to present jumpers and shirts created with care. It also includes selecting organic cotton, which ensures comfortability for Nofl’s customers and an awareness of the environment.

The select store has an abundance of clothing to choose from, focusing mainly on women’s garments. Hand-knitted items are on display, including handmade face masks made out of organic cotton. Moreover, women’s jumpers that will surely keep you warm and cozy during those cold winter months are also available. Nofl also has an Instagram account that shows off its original fashion sense.

Ikkuna/ Suzuki Takayuki

Ikkuna/Suzuki Takayuki’s main goal is to help its customers experience the freshness of organic cotton. In order to bring its concepts to actualization, Ikkuna/Suzuki Takayuki is passionate through every step of the clothing creation process, from harvesting cotton to applying such material to the weaving and sewing process. Providing organic cotton is one of the cornerstones by which the company strives to live, and it shows throughout its work.

It’s important to ask why Ikkuna/ Suzuki Takayuki is committed to using organic cotton. One of the main reasons is due to the amount of damage caused by conventional cotton harvesting methods. According to Ikkuna, conventional cotton accounts for 35 percent of pesticide usage worldwide. This is obviously detrimental to the environment. However, using organic cotton does less harm to the environment, as well as the farmers specializing in the harvesting of organic cotton.

With each passing year, Ikkuna/Suzuki Takayuki releases brand new items and designs specifically geared toward women. Products such as blouses, hoodies, and even socks are readily available for purchase. The products are also available for order from the company’s online store.

KUME

KUME has deep roots in Japan, and its foundation dates back to the year 1935. The history of one of Japan’s oldest T-shirt companies is a long one, and the company has certainly adapted with the times.

KUME’s clothing is 100 percent domestic, brimming with only the highest quality Japan has to offer. Furthermore, the company is also a regular member of the NPO Japan Organic Cotton Association and uses earth-friendly organic material in a number of its products, specifically its T-shirts.

KUME carries a large assortment of apparel geared for men, women, and children. These products range from plain T-shirts, hoodies, and cardigans. Through the company’s sustainable clothing line, you’ll be able to discover apparel made using mainly organic cotton. KUME’s products will ensure that you stay comfortable while being environmentally conscious.

The Hinoki

It isn’t a secret how much organic cotton benefits the environment and our daily lives. The Hinoki has taken light of these special circumstances by creating an authentic line of apparel showcasing the advantages of organic cotton.

 

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Made for both men and women, The Hinoki’s organic cotton line comprises jackets, trousers, shirts, and more. The sleek designs present a modern look while not ignoring quality. The clothing, such as their shirts, have a sleek, monochrome look to ensure you look your best. Moreover, the simplistic designs offer an air of confidence that is immediately felt upon wearing the clothes.

The Hinoki guarantees environmental friendliness for those conscious buyers. Unfortunately, since the items sell like hot cakes, it’s best to get your order in as soon as possible.

Written by
Maurice Skinner

Maurice is originally from Fairbanks, Alaska in the United States and is a Japanese to English translator. He likes to spend his free time hiking, camping, and traveling. He has spent the past five years in Japan and has resided in Wakayama, Osaka, and Tokyo.

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Written by Maurice Skinner