NORA JACKET -antique japanese boro-
Item : Jacket
Fabric : Japan
BORO
Cotton
Meiji-Taisho period
Size : Shoulder Width : 48 cm (18.89 inches)
Body Width: 57 cm (22.44 inches)
Length: 72 cm (28.34 inches)
Sleeve Length: 60 cm (23.62 inches)
Model Height : 173cm 60kg (5'8" Weight 133lb)
The overall image of this jacket is rooted in French workwear, while the finer details — such as the collar, sleeves, and pockets — reflect what I personally find beautiful and what I would want to wear today.
Rather than a sharply tailored silhouette with strong curves, I aimed for a jacket with a more relaxed and effortless feeling.
It is a piece that blends the past and the present, while still maintaining a certain looseness and natural atmosphere.
The fabric used is Japanese BORO dating from around the Meiji to Taisho era.
“BORO” refers to old cloth and garments that were repeatedly worn, repaired, and patched over time.
“Sashiko” is a traditional Japanese stitching technique that has long been used for reinforcement and warmth.
These fabrics were used in daily life, washed countless times, and carefully repaired whenever damaged. Layers of patches and sashiko stitching were added over many years, creating the unique texture and atmosphere that only BORO possesses.
The BORO used for the outer fabric originally came from a “Yogi,” a type of traditional Japanese bedding textile.
Areas with holes had been repeatedly patched with indigo-dyed cotton fabric and reinforced with sashiko stitching.
The original repairs sewn with cotton thread have been preserved as they were.
The flow of the stitching and overlapping patches were never intentionally designed, yet the natural handwork creates an incredibly organic and beautiful expression.
For the lining, I used antique Japanese cotton fabric with a soft and smooth texture.
The buttons are antique French papier-mâché buttons, made by compressing paper and hardening it with natural adhesives.
Originally inspired by Japonisme and Japanese lacquerware, these buttons were popular in the West over 100 years ago. I find it fascinating that today, these papier-mâché buttons are attached to a jacket made from antique Japanese fabric.
The backing buttons are vintage shell buttons, and each button has been individually attached by hand with thread-wrapped shanks.
The buttonholes and reinforcements are also hand-sewn to match the atmosphere of the old fabric, giving a warmth that machines cannot replicate.
To complement the vintage character of the piece, cotton thread was used throughout the construction.
Compared to the richness and convenience of modern times, these fabrics were born in a much harsher era where resources were limited and everyday life was entirely different from today.
Because of this, they possess an atmosphere and depth that simply cannot be artificially recreated.
I believe Japanese antique textiles are truly remarkable materials, worthy of being appreciated around the world for their incredible craftsmanship and human touch.
Exactly the same fabric can never be found again, and even if similar fabric existed, the same piece could never be recreated.
The hand-stitched repairs and layered patches give every piece its own unique expression and character.
I hope you enjoy this one-of-a-kind piece.
Please note:
The fabric used is nearly 100 years old. To preserve it for many years to come, I recommend gentle soaking when washing and only light spin-drying inside a laundry net.
For inquiries about the artwork, please feel free to contact us at noraadd.1118@gmail.com .
"Regarding returns and fabrics"
We want you to love your purchase and enjoy using it for a long time, so if the size doesn't fit, please contact us within 7 days and we will accept returns. Please note that in the case of returns, the return shipping cost will be borne by the customer, and transaction fees for credit card payments will not be refunded.
For further details, please check the terms of use in the menu.
This fabric is quite old, over 100 years old. With continued wear, some wear and tear may occur. We are happy to assist with any repairs, so please feel free to contact us.
* Please note that we cannot repair or order items purchased from other stores .
[Shipping and Delivery Methods]
Shipping fee: 600 yen nationwide. Shipping will be via Yamato Transport. *A tracking number will be provided after shipping arrangements are made.
【Shipping】
・I accept international shipping.
・I ship the item within 3days after your payment.
・Once the item is shipped,I will email you with the tracking number.