Traditional Okinawan dyeing finds new life in metaverse as 3D avatar fashion

In collaboration with Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores, V Inc. has announced the release of a 3D digital costume series for metaverse avatars inspired by the traditional Okinawan dyeing technique of Bingata.

Bingata is a traditional method of dyeing textiles that has been passed down since the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The technique uses stencils and brushes to apply vibrant colours, such as crimson, indigo and yellow, creating brilliant patterns that depict nature and auspicious symbols. It was historically used for ceremonial robes and dance costumes for the noble classes. Today, Ryukyu Bingata is designated as an Intangible Cultural Property of Okinawa Prefecture and a national traditional craft of Japan.

V Inc. utilises Daimaru Matsuzakaya’s extensive collection of historical Bingata textiles. By faithfully reproducing their beauty and adapting them for avatars, the collaboration created a “gateway to culture” within the metaverse. It digitises historical masterpieces and dyeing materials, presenting them in a future-oriented format that offers new possibilities for tradition and creativity.

Three distinct styles will be released. The “Buyō Yotsutake Style” is based on traditional Bingata garments and reproduces the elegance of classical dance costumes. The “Nirai Style” offers a soft and light design that reinterprets Bingata patterns for a contemporary look, while the “Kanai Style” provides a modern outfit suitable for masculine avatars. Each design has been optimised to showcase the vivid colours of Bingata in a 3D space, allowing users a unique experience of “wearing culture”.

The collection fuses the rich cultural heritage of Japan with modern digital expression, and offers a modern channel to introduce traditional craftsmanship to a new global audience.