For sale here is a pair of pants from the Spellbound label, another in a long line of Japanese “American casual” brands. That is, Spellbound is strongly influenced by classic American workwear, although they tend to release their interpretations of workwear staples rather than simple re-hashes. As always with these types of labels, production runs are very small, with limited distribution even in Japan. Availability outside of Japan is even tougher, where only a handful of specialist boutiques stock them. Quality, however, is quite high. These are definitely painstakingly-made garments, done to a very high standard.
In this case we have a work-style silhouette coming in a 95% cotton / 5% polyurethane blend. The polyurethane provides just a bit of stretch to the fabric ensuring maximum comfort and freedom of movement. The material has a nice textured weave to it and appears to have a reactive dye, the sort of fabric that will continue to nicely fade and develop with wear.
Silhouette is pretty straightforward but has some subtle details added it. All seams use thick chainstitcing, in many areas with double and triple needle construction. This kind of construction is done on vintage machines, adding an additional authentic workwear feeling to the pants. Side and rear pockets both have unique construction and the interior waistband lining and pockets are done in an indigo dyed cotton chambray.
In all, you can see that a lot of consideration and effort went into the design and execution of these pants. Spellbound is all about subtle details and strongly reward close consideration. Retail on these pants was about $300 outside of Japan if you can find them.
Size is labeled a 32 and fits true if a bit loose in the waist. I measure the waist at 34” / 86cm, inseam at 30” / 76cm, rise at 10” / 26cm and leg opening at 8.25” / 21cm for a straight leg fit- not too baggy or too loose. The pants come in used, generally good shape. There is a bit of wear and fading throughout, but if anything that gives them more character. No holes, tears or stains. Made in Japan.
Shipping from Japan to anywhere will be $30.
