Watch the short film
RYUKYU BLUES PROJECT

A film by The Inoue Brothers...

Directed by: Yoshimitsu "CHAI" Shiroma
Art Director: Moriyasu "MODAN" Murayama
Produced by: The Inoue Brothers... and Ryukyu Indigo Labo

Ryukyu Blues Project

Ryukyu Indigo Labo is the only remaining Okinawan dyeing facility, who follows the process from growing of the plant to dyeing the final garment. The unique depth of traditionally dyed indigo colour is continuously adored by the Japanese people.

However, in recent years chemically produced synthetic indigo has become widely available and is much cheaper than naturally derived indigo. This has caused the decline of the labour intensive production, yet unmistakably superior colour of naturally dyed indigo.

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Ryukyu Indigo Labo endeavours to preserve Okinawa's unique indigo tradition by ensuring the knowledge and wisdom of the process is recorded for future generations. From maintaining soil conditions to the cultivation of the Ryukyu indigo plant, their production process is followed to the finest detail to achieve the magnificent colour of the Ryukyu indigo.

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Sweatshirt

Body:100% Organic Pima cotton
Feature: Ryukyu aizome (Natural Indigo Dyeing)
Country and region: Okinawa, Japan

A natural indigo dyeing process that focuses on natural materials and the use of naturally occurring fermentation bacteria.

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In order to maximise the unique texture and colour of Ryukyu indigo, the entire process from soil preparation to dyeing is carried out in Okinawa, while maintaining traditional techniques and methods.

The body is made from organic Pima cotton produced without fertiliser or pesticide from indigenous Peruvian seeds.