Among the famous dyeing and weaving in Japan, Aizome (Aizome, Aizen ) is by far the most famous. Many of you must have actually experienced Aizome when you were a student. As the name suggests, Aizome, which is known for its vivid and deep sea-like Aizome, is still used in various apparel and items even today.
Therefore, in this article, we will focus on Aizome and introduce carefully selected recommended apparel and items.
What is Aizome ?
Aizome (Aizome, Aizen) has long been loved as an auspicious color. The beautiful deep indigo color, which is called “Japan Blue” from overseas, is produced by “indigo” which is a plant dye.
There are many different types of indigo, but in Japan, the most popular is tateai, also known as Awa indigo. Aizome made using this “Tateai” is said to have not only beautiful colors, but also deodorant effects, effects to suppress recent growth, UV protection effects, insect repellent effects, etc. In modern times, its charm is attracting attention again.
Recommended apparel for Aizome (Aizen)
First of all, we would like to introduce the apparel produced by standard Aizome.
Antibacterial and deodorant mask
A single-piece mask made by dyeing linen thread using living indigo. Due to the effects of indigo and hemp, antibacterial and deodorant properties can be expected. Moreover, hemp has a rough texture and good breathability, so you don’t feel stuffy. It can be washed and worn repeatedly, so it’s eco-friendly, and it looks like a deep navy blue color, so it’s easy to match with any outfit.
| Product name | Summer mask “Ranma-chan” |
| Price (tax included) | 2,220 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/goods_etc/summermask.html |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
A three-dimensional mask that luxuriously uses summer kimono fabric
A three-dimensional mask using cotton silk, a high-class summer kimono fabric. Not only is it made of 100% safe and secure natural materials, but it is also amazing that each one is sewn by hand by craftsmen. In addition to the “Hanairo” in the image, there are also deeper colors such as “Indigo” and “Katsuiro”, which are closer to dark navy blue, so you can choose according to your taste. It is easy to match any color and can be worn for any occasion.
| Product name | [Fabrics and colors to choose from] Luxury genuine indigo-dyed mask [Hon-indigo dyed Yano factory] |
| Price (tax included) | 3,300 yen |
| Product page URL | https://arunet-awa.com/?pid=151511739 |
| Store name | Alnet Tokushima |
| Store homepage URL | https://arunet-awa.com |
good tie
Each necktie is dyed one by one by a craftsman, so the appearance of the pattern changes. Recommended for those who are particular about unique designs. Not only is the depth of color different here and there like a gradation, but there are also white areas where indigo does not enter, giving it a sophisticated design. Just by wearing it, your sense will shine.
| Product name | Awa Aizome Murakumo Necktie [Nagao Woven Fabric] |
| Price (tax included) | 5,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://arunet-awa.com/?pid=159743769 |
| Store name | Alnet Tokushima |
| Store homepage URL | https://arunet-awa.com |
Grown-up cool hunting cap
A hunting hat that is perfect for a cool and mature look. Because it is indigo, it is easy to match with any color. Because it is made of 100% cotton, the more you use it, the more you will become familiar with it, making it tasteful. It also comes with an adjuster, so you can loosen or tighten it according to your size. Recommended as a gift for fathers and grandfathers.
| Product name | Awa Aizome hunting cap |
| Price (tax included) | 8,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=157165143 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center Head Office |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
Great cap for outdoors
A cap that you want to wear outdoors. It can be worn by men and women of any age. Made of 100% cotton, it has a soft texture and an excellent fit. The more you use it, the more you will get used to it, and you will grow to love it. Of course, it is free size and can be adjusted with an adjuster according to the size of the head.
| Product name | Awa indigo dye cap |
| Price (tax included) | 6,600 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=157165185 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center Head Office |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
unisex knit cap
Unisex knit caps are of course indigo dyed. Made of 60% cotton and 40% acrylic, it is soft and fits well on the wearer’s head. It can be worn in all seasons by folding it back in the warm season and hiding the ears without folding it back in the cold season. The indigo color makes it easy to match with various outfits. It will come in handy if you have one.
| Product name | Indigo Dyed Knit Cap Men’s Women’s Simple Dark Blue Navy Watch Cap Indigo Hat |
| Price (tax included) | 4,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com/shopdetail/000000000122/aizome/page1/order/ |
| Store name | Kobo 1 |
| Store homepage URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com |
Classic unisex stole
A scarf that embodies the goodness of Aizome. It’s a unisex item, so anyone can wear it. Because it is made of 100% cotton, it has a soft texture and does not feel stiff even when worn around the neck. Just by incorporating it into your coordination during the spring and summer seasons, it will give you a refreshing and cool impression. It’s hard to tell whether you like it or not, so it’s recommended as a gift.
| Product name | Free shipping Aizome stole A Nagao fabric Unisex Awa Aizome product! Mother’s Day/Respect for the Aged Day/Father’s Day |
| Price (tax included) | 4,400 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=30756849 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center Head Office |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
cotton muffler
Wide muffler made of 100% cotton. With a striped design that combines pile weave and plain weave, it can be worn all year round. Because it is a deep indigo color close to dark blue, there is no sense of discomfort even in winter. In the hot summer, it seems to be useful as an alternative to towels to wipe away sweat. Even if you have sensitive skin, you can rest assured that it will not irritate your skin.
| Product name | [Hon Aizome Yano Factory] Cotton muffler [Natural lye fermentation Tate Hon Aizome] |
| Price (tax included) | 4,950 yen |
| Product page URL | https://arunet-awa.com/?pid=158795514 |
| Store name | Alnet Tokushima |
| Store homepage URL | https://arunet-awa.com |
apron like a barista
An apron that looks like a barista in a cafe. Made from thick, sturdy 100% cotton canvas. It is easy to put on and take off, and the waist strap can be tied at the front or back. Fully equipped with large pockets. There is also a slit in the hem, so it is easy to move. It seems to be useful not only for work around the kitchen, but also for DIY and other DIY projects.
| Product name | Indigo Dyed Canvas Apron Work Apron Cotton Cotton Loop Apron Men’s Women’s |
| Price (tax included) | 14,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com/shopdetail/000000000229/aizome/page1/order/ |
| Store name | Kobo 1 |
| Store homepage URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com |
A men’s T-shirt inspired by the blue and wind of the sea.
A men’s T-shirt that expresses the beautiful blue sea and wind. Like Aizome, it is irresistible to randomly darken here and there. If you wear it in the summer, you will definitely feel cool from the appearance. It is also useful for sports that move the body. It’s a piece-dye, not a yarn-dye, so please wash it with water to bring out the color before wearing it.
| Product name | Sea breeze dyeing T-shirt (for men) |
| Price (tax included) | 8,800 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/tshirts/umikazezome_Tshirts.html |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
Stand collar shirt with natural texture
Stand-up collar shirt with bando stripes, the true value of Bushu Aizome. The natural stripes keep you warm even in the chilly season, so not only does it look good, but it is also highly functional. When the temperature is subtle, you can unbutton it and wear it like a cardigan. If you have one, you can mix and match, so it is sure to come in handy.
| Product name | Indigo shirt Bando striped stand collar |
| Price (tax included) | 24,200 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/kinosukekouya/ai_shirt_bandoujima.html#BandoujimaStand |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
A hoodie you should have
A casual hoodie with a beautiful indigo color. Short sleeves are perfect for hot weather. It can be layered and worn, so if you wear a long sleeve inner layer, you can wear it even in the cold winter season, so it can be used as a heavy rotation item. It also comes with a hood, so you can add an accent to your outfit.
| Product name | Short sleeve zip hoodie sweatshirt men’s indigo dyed cotton hoodie dark blue dyed short sleeve hoodie American casual |
| Price (tax included) | 13,900 yen |
| Product page URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com/shopdetail/000000000141/aizome/page1/order/ |
| Store name | Kobo 1 |
| Store homepage URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com |
stylish romper
A stylish romper. Because it is indigo, which is close to navy blue, dirt is less noticeable. Of course, it is dyed with natural plant dyes, and can be expected to have insect repellent, deodorant, and antibacterial effects, and is gentle on the skin, so babies can wear it with confidence. It might be a great memory for your family to wear indigo-dyed apparel and take a commemorative photo in matching outfits.
| Product name | Baby Indigo Dyed Short Sleeve Romper Coverall Baby Gift Children’s Clothing Cotton Cotton Dark Blue Navy Gift Present |
| Price (tax included) | 4,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com/shopdetail/000000000159/aizome/page1/order/ |
| Store name | Kobo 1 |
| Store homepage URL | https://studio-ichi-shop.com |
baby gift set
A baby gift set with traditional Japanese Aizome. Because it is dyed with natural materials, it is safe to make it gentle on the body. With baby clothes, socks, and towels, it is the ultimate gift to celebrate with Japanese love. There are few likes and dislikes for the color, and it is a simple item with no pattern, so it will be appreciated by everyone.
| Product name | baby gift set |
| Price (tax included) | 27,500 yen |
| Product page URL | https://shop.a-eru.co.jp/product/newborn-gift/ |
| Store name | aeru |
| Store homepage URL | https://shop.a-eru.co.jp |
Aizome recommended items
Next, we will introduce various items made with indigo.
A handkerchief you want to keep in your pocket
A handkerchief with an indigo flower wreath pattern. Because it is indigo, it can be used by anyone regardless of gender. It is also a nice point that it is surprisingly large at about 44cm square. It’s supple and easy to use, and when you casually take it out of your pocket or bag and use it, the beautiful indigo color will catch your eye. It will also make a great gift.
| Product name | indigo dyed handkerchief |
| Price (tax included) | 1,540 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=1480154 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
Wrapped bath towel
Bath towels made from indigo and sustainable cotton. The yarn is a little thicker than regular yarn, and it is finished with a softer twist, giving it a soft touch. It is highly absorbent and has excellent functionality. It also has antibacterial properties, so you can keep using it for a long time. Perfect as a gift.
| Product name | Kinosuke Konya Indigo Dyed Bath Towel |
| Price (tax included) | 13,200 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/kinosukekouya/aizometowel.html#bathtowel |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
Sheets like the deep sea
Deep indigo sheets reminiscent of the deep sea. The comfortable texture and refreshing scent will invite you to a good sleep. Not only does it have a strong antibacterial and deodorant effect, but it also has good moisture absorption, so you won’t feel sticky and uncomfortable in the summer. It can be used not only as bed sheets, but also as a multi-cover for sofas.
| Product name | Indigo Dyed Cotton Sheet Sara |
| Price (tax included) | 13,200 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/beditems/aizome_sheets.html |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
Cushion cover made in combination with sashiko fabric
A cushion cover made by combining indigo dyed cotton sheet fabric and thin sashiko fabric. The deep indigo color makes it easy to match with any outfit, and the texture is so good that you just want to hug it. It also has a high antibacterial and deodorizing effect, so you can safely put it on the sofa in the living room where multiple people touch it.
| Product name | beans |
| Price (tax included) | 4,400 yen |
| Product page URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/categoly/beditems/cushioncover.html |
| Store name | Nogawa Textile Industry Co., Ltd. |
| Store homepage URL | http://www.nogawasenshoku.com/index.html |
A fan with a cool color
A folding fan that combines style and elegance. It is one of the items that you want to keep on hand in the summer. The unisex bamboo pattern design is a Japanese pattern, but it gives a stylish impression depending on the person who wears it. In the hot season, looking up with a cool Aizome fan will definitely make you look cooler.
| Product name | Free Shipping Aizome Fan (Sensu) Sasa Authentic Awa Tokushima traditional handicraft Natural Aizome product! Father’s Day/Mother’s Day/Respect for the Aged Day |
| Price (tax included) | 6,820 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=20404785 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
Atmospheric Noren
A noren that can instantly create a Japanese atmosphere just by attaching it to the kitchen and living room. The indigo flowers are well drawn. It may be good as a noren between the counter and the hall of a Japanese-style pub. Recommended for those who want to coordinate their space with a stylish Japanese taste.
| Product name | Aizome Noren Aizome Noren Traditional crafts of Awa Tokushima, the home of Awa Tokushima Natural indigo dyed products! Father’s Day/Mother’s Day/Respect for the Aged Day |
| Price (tax included) | 3,300 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=59574450 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
stylish wall hangings
A wall hanging made of cotton thread dyed with Awa indigo, and a monochromatic and patterned motif. It is an item that can give an impact by decorating it with a texture that can be used as a carpet at eye level. I can’t help but want to reach out and touch it. It may also be suitable for rest areas such as hot spring facilities.
| Product name | Awa indigo wall hanging [Eiko carpet] |
| Price (tax included) | 12,100 yen |
| Product page URL | https://arunet-awa.com/?pid=149372059 |
| Store name | Alnet Tokushima |
| Store homepage URL | https://arunet-awa.com |
The table center which colors a dining table vividly
Table centerpiece made from 100% cotton. But it also looks like hemp. By placing it on a plain table, it creates a different atmosphere than usual. There is no doubt that it will be very useful in various scenes such as meals on special days, lunches on days when you want to change your mood, afternoon tea with friends, etc.
| Product name | Awa Aizome table center |
| Price (tax included) | 3,300 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=59605807 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
A coaster you want to use when drinking barley tea
Simple is best coaster. An item that you would like to use when drinking barley tea during the hot summer months. Of course, it seems to be suitable for coffee time in the morning slowly and luxuriously. The two-tone gradation is irresistible. It’s a color that is liked by both men and women, so it’s a good idea to stock up on the number of people in your family.
| Product name | Indigo-dyed coaster (step-dyed koshiki) A traditional craft of Awa-Tokushima, the home of natural indigo-dyed products! Father’s Day/Mother’s Day/Respect for the Aged Day |
| Price (tax included) | 660 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=1480113 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
Convenient standard furoshiki
Furoshiki is often thought to be outdated, but that is not the case at all. It is a versatile item that can be used in a variety of situations, such as wrapping a lunch box, wrapping a small gift, covering important items from the top to prevent dust, or making a small bag by devising a way to tie it. . It’s completely made-to-order, so please order with plenty of time to spare.
| Product name | [Completely made-to-order] Aizome furoshiki (dark blue), a traditional craft of Awa Tokushima, a natural indigo dye product! Father’s Day/Mother’s Day/Respect for the Aged Day |
| Price (tax included) | 7,700 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=57329380 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
checkered tote bag
A tote bag with a traditional checkered pattern, which has been revived in popularity since it was used in the pattern of the haori worn by the main character of a nationally popular manga. It has a Japanese atmosphere, but it has a modern impression and can be used regardless of age. It has a large capacity and is convenient when you go out. It is an item that is easy to use everyday.
| Product name | Free Shipping Aizome Tote Bag Checkered Unisex Traditional Awa natural Aizome product! Mother’s Day / Father’s Day / Respect for the Aged Day / Gift-giving / Gift |
| Price (tax included) | 19,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=115693572 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
A bag with a beautiful gradation
A step-dyed bag with a beautiful gradation. With a gusset of 8 cm, it not only stands on its own, but also has a height of 30 cm, so it can store a lot of things and is extremely easy to use. The handle is designed with enough room to be worn over the shoulder, making it surprisingly convenient. It is an item for both men and women that makes everyday outings fun.
| Product name | Free shipping Aizome bag (tiered dyeing) Unisex Awa Aizome product! Mother’s Day Father’s Day Respect for the Aged Day gift-giving gift build-to-order manufacturing |
| Price (tax included) | 19,800 yen |
| Product page URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp/?pid=117790912 |
| Store name | Tokushima Prefectural Product Center |
| Store homepage URL | https://tokushima-shop.jp |
summary
In this article, we briefly explained the outline of Japan’s famous Aizome (Aizen) , and introduced carefully selected apparel and items.
The various apparel and items that use the familiar indigo dye are not old-fashioned at all, and there are many items that can be used everyday even in modern times.
There are many items that can be used regardless of gender, so it might be fun for families and couples to try and collect items.