For sale here is a nice blazer/cardigan hybrid from 45 rpm. 45 rpm is best known for their Japanese take on American workwear, often using indigo dyes and sparing no expense in quality or detailing on their clothing. They’re also known for being quite exclusive. Their pieces are only available in their own shops, of which there are only a handful outside of Japan. Retail prices are likewise very high and production runs are very small. If you see something you like, you typically have to jump on it because chances are it won’t be around for long.
In this case we have what is essentially a blazer pattern, made out of an indigo dyed, woven cotton material with a terrycloth style interior. That makes this somewhere between a cardigan and a blazer. I guess it could fall into either category, depending on your interpretation. As usual with 45 rpm the quality is top notch here. These kinds of woven fabrics are done by 45 rpm on old school looms, giving them a dense gauge for one, as well as a more hand-done, textured feel to it compared to the cheaper alternatives. Fabrics and details are what 45 rpm is all about, and the best way to experience it is on close inspection really.
45 rpm is well regarded for their indigo products, where they are one of the early adopters in Japan and do it better than pretty much everyone. They specialize in a natural indigo that will pleasantly fade and develop with wear. This piece shows that process in action, with artful fading throughout. Other details include four button front closure, with all buttons reinforced on the interior. Buttons are all vegetable ivory. Cuffs are working and can be rolled up if you like. The “R” logo is embroidered in orange on the front, reinforcing the interior pocket seam. All pockets are reinforced on the corners as well, with the exterior pockets being reinforced by red threading. Interior has an embroidered label.
45 rpm can be pretty inconsistent in their sizing, where this is labeled a size 2 but fits quite a bit looser, more like a large or an XL in my opinion. I measure the chest at 23”, shoulders at 18”, length at 29” from the base of the neck, and sleeves at 24” from the shoulder. The piece comes in lightly used, generally good shape. There is some fading of the indigo throughout as noted and some general wear, perhaps most visible on the cuffs, but if anything this is an asset where the sweater has been nicely broken in. Otherwise no holes, tears or stains. Made in Japan.
Shipping from Japan to anywhere will be $30.